Key Takeaways
- Sealing pavers increases the longevity and durability of the pavers while keeping them stain-free. It helps improve the aesthetic beauty of your outdoor spaces.
- Thorough preparation, especially cleaning and ensuring pavers are thoroughly dry, is key to successful sealing. Make sure you pick the right kind of sealant for your specific paver type and use it in the recommended weather conditions.
- Sealing your pavers brings a host of worthwhile benefits. It protects against staining, stops weeds from growing, helps stabilize joint sand, and overall increases the life of your pavers.
- Regularly inspecting your pavers for deterioration, shifting in joint sand, or studying after the build-up of stains may help you identify the need to seal.
- Some pavers should not be sealed. Read and consider your paver material, local climate, and any HOA or local ordinances before moving forward.
- Regular maintenance is essential for the longevity and appearance of sealed pavers. Maintaining your pavers is no different—clean them regularly, inspect them for damage, and reseal them every few years to ensure their long-lasting protection and beauty.
Sealing your pavers helps protect them from stains, fading, and weather damage, making it a useful step for many outdoor spaces. It can deepen the hue, provide a glossy finish, and even reduce maintenance and cleaning efforts.
In this post, we’ll explore the key considerations when deciding whether sealing is right for you. Factors like the type of pavers, their location, and your desired level of maintenance play a significant role. For instance, areas with heavy foot traffic or exposure to extreme weather conditions may benefit more from added protection.
Rustic or natural-style pavers, on the other hand, might look better without a sheen. Understanding both the benefits and drawbacks of sealing will help you make an informed decision. Here are three important things to consider before applying a sealant to your pavers.
What Is Paver Sealing?
Paver sealing is the process of applying a protective sealant to the top layer of your pavers. This well-made coating forms a lasting barrier. It acts as a seal that protects paving stones against the damaging effects of weather, stains, and high-traffic areas.
Sealing your pavers not only protects their surface, but it enhances the look of your outdoor spaces. Your patios, driveways, and walkways will stand out with a brilliant, well-groomed appearance. Sealing is not necessary for all paver installs.
It’s not a magic fix, but it is worth the cost step that can add years to your paver investment. In order to be effective, knowing how to go through the sealing process properly and having the right tools is key.
Define The Paver Sealing Process
The paver sealing process begins with surface preparation. First, pressure wash the pavers to remove dirt, mildew, and stains. After that come the topical treatments.
First, address efflorescence, the white discoloration that can naturally form on new pavers. For newer installations, less than 12 months old, some manufacturers suggest that you wait some time before sealing to give this residue time to evaporate.
Once the pavers are cleaned and dried, the correct sealant is selected depending on the paver material you have. Choices range from breathable sealers that allow moisture to get out to sealers made with decorative finishes—such as a “wet look.
Tips and Tricks
Application should be done in dry weather with temperatures ideally ranging between 50°F and 90°F. After sealing, wait a minimum of two to three hours before walking on the surface of your driveway.
Purpose Of Sealing Pavers
In very simple terms, sealing prolongs the life of your pavers by protecting them from cracking, erosion, and staining from oil, food, or leaves. In addition, paver sealing saves color vibrancy and texture, arresting fading caused by harmful UV rays.
By reapplying every 3-5 years, you’re making sure your pavers are consistently protected and look great all year round.
Why Seal Your Pavers?
Sealing your pavers is more than just a way to enhance their appearance, it’s an important part of protecting your investment. When you seal your pavers, you’re giving them an extra layer of protection from the constant erosion caused by use, environmental factors, and time.
Here, we elaborate on the most important reasons to seal your pavers and why it’s a good idea.
1. Prevent Stains And Discoloration
Sealing creates a shield against the elements that prevent oil, grease, and other spills from soaking into your pavers. It provides protection from harmful UV rays, too, which can dull or change colors over time.
This is particularly helpful in high-traffic areas such as driveways or patios, where gasoline or other spills can occur. When you have sealed pavers, regular cleaning is a breeze because dirt and spills sit on top instead of soaking in.
It prevents efflorescence, a chalky deposit that frequently forms on new pavers when applied starting after the first year of installation.
2. Inhibiting Weed Growth
Sealants close off the spaces in between pavers, preventing any weeds from finding solid ground. This saves more time in maintenance down the line and inhibits moss or algae growth in shady or wet locations.
A clean, weed-free surface is more than just aesthetically pleasing. It protects the lasting beauty and structural integrity of your outdoor spaces.
3. Stabilize Joint Sand
Sealing applications can help joint sand stay locked in place, reducing erosion over time and preventing the creation of a pockmarked, uneven surface. This can cause the loss of your dense paver’s base under stable joints, as stable joints stop water from seeping in.
4. Enhance Aesthetic Appeal
Sealants make colors pop and give hardscapes a lot of beautiful sheen, like a high gloss or “wet look” finish. In the case of older concrete pavers, proper sealing prevents further erosion and degradation while restoring faded surfaces, providing a revitalized look.
Determine If Pavers Need Sealing
Sealing your concrete paver patio can significantly enhance its durability, appearance, and resistance to wear. To determine whether sealing is needed, a close examination of your specific paver’s state is essential.
Inspect Paver Condition
Check with a close inspection of your pavers. Inspect for any visible cracks, chips, or other forms of damage that will only get worse if not sealed.
Discoloration or staining, such as from oil or plant debris, often indicates that sealing can help restore their original look. Look for signs of wear such as dull, faded, or lightly colored spots on the surface.
These are the tell-tale signs of fading due to UV exposure. Inspect the paved surface carefully to determine if the surface is still in good shape. Be sure to note problem areas so you can focus on them when you begin the sealing.
Assess Joint Sand Levels
Joint sand is the unsung hero in maintaining your paver installation’s integrity and longevity. Take a look at the gaps between your pavers to make sure the joint sand is even and hasn’t eroded.
If you observe places in which the sand has deteriorated or been washed out, getting it refilled before sealing is imperative. In addition to holding pavers in place, stabilized joint sand stops weeds and insects from finding a home between your pavers.
Evaluate Stain Resistance
Check if your pavers are stain-resistant by pouring water or oil on them. In cases where liquids are absorbed immediately, the paver’s porous composition might eventually result in irreversible stains.
Previous discolorations indicate a need for seal coating. Sealing provides a strong protective barrier that improves stain resistance to all types of spills and outside elements.
Check For Efflorescence
This can leave efflorescence – a white powdery residue that makes the pavers look dirty. Look for this accumulation, particularly in wet locations.
While sealing will help prevent efflorescence in the future, you’ll get the best results if you clean the surface first.
Paver Sealing: Key Considerations
Here are a few key factors to keep in mind when deciding to seal your paver patio. Consider what kind of pavers, such as porous pavers or dense pavers, you’re working with, your climate, and any applicable regulations. These key factors will not only dictate if sealing applications are needed, but also how it should be done to get it right the first time for lasting outcomes.
All Pavers Need Sealing?
Not every paver needs to be sealed—it all comes down to what they’re made of and what they’re used for. This is especially true for porous pavers, like concrete, because they absorb stains and moisture faster. Dense and/or sealed pavers, like natural stone, can prevent most staining.
While sealers won’t prevent all discoloration from UV exposure, using a sealer will offer better defense from fading and wear. Some materials, like clay bricks, are inherently more stain-resistant than others, so the need for sealing is less pressing. Take time to consider your pavers’ individual needs before making a choice.
Climate Impact On Sealing
One of the most important factors that can greatly alter the sealing outcome is local weather. For example, very high heat can cause sealants to dry out too fast, and extreme humidity can lead to failure due to improper curing. The best sealing temperatures are between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Don’t seal in the winter; cold temperatures interfere with drying. Weather patterns impact resealing frequency, with high-traffic or sun-exposed areas requiring maintenance every three to five years.
Paver Material Compatibility
Not all sealants are appropriate for all paver types. For instance, water-based sealants are compatible with concrete but solvent-based sealants have deeper penetration with dense stones. Using an incompatible product can lead to adhesion issues or uneven finishes.
So, select wisely to ensure you’re getting the most protection and longevity from your investment.
HOA And Local Regulations
It’s good practice to review local ordinances and HOA guidelines before sealing. To mitigate these hazards, some communities require only low-VOC sealants, require non-toxic alternatives, or prohibit sealing projects altogether.
Fines can easily be levied for non-compliance, so before you set out, refer to event details for permission.
Paver Sealing Preparation
Assemble your materials and prep the surface for the paver installations. Gather your necessary tools, ensuring you have a clean, dry surface. Each step, including proper sealing with quality sealers, is equally important to the process.
Gather Necessary Materials
Begin with gathering all necessary equipment. For this, you’ll need joint sand, a high-quality sealant, and cleaning equipment such as a power washer or a stiff-bristle brush.
Since each gallon of sealant usually covers between 80 and 120 sq. Ft., plan accordingly based on how many pavers you have. Don’t forget personal protective equipment, like gloves and safety goggles, so that you are properly protected when working with chemicals.
Make sure all equipment and applicators are functioning correctly in order to prevent any stoppage. Set up a workspace where you have quick access to these products to keep your process flowing and time efficient.
Clean Pavers Thoroughly
That’s why preparation, particularly cleaning, is so critical. Your next step is to use a power washer to clean your pavers of dirt, stains, moss, and algae, all of which can prevent sealant from adhering properly.
Even recently laid pavers could benefit from a thorough cleaning. To remove efflorescence before sealing, use a specialized product such as Techniseal® Paver Prep, since efflorescence can take months to disappear naturally.
After cleaning, simply sweep polymeric sand into the joints and make sure that none is left on the surface.
Allow Adequate Drying Time
Once environmental establishment cleaning is complete, give the surface 24 hours of drying time before moving to the next step. Any moisture trapped under the sealant will create a barrier, leading to weak bonding.
Weather conditions are critical! Conditions should be dry, preferably with temperatures between 50°F and 90°F. Better still, no rain forecast for at least a day.
Paver Sealing Application
Sealing your concrete pavers not only enhances their appearance but also protects them from wear and tear, making it a valuable step in paver maintenance. Implementing a careful application process maximizes the effectiveness of the sealant and extends the life of your paved areas.
Choose Ideal Weather Conditions
This is why weather is so important in the successful application of paver seals. Temperatures should be moderate between 50–90°F, with 75°F and sunny being ideal. Dry weather is essential to prevent moisture from wreaking havoc with the sealant.
Try to avoid sealing during high humidity or extreme heat, as these conditions can interfere with curing and application. Inspect the forecast to guarantee a minimum of 24 hours of dry weather following the sealer application.
In cooler and/or shaded conditions, allow one full day after cleaning before applying the sealer to ensure the surface is completely dry. In hot, bright climates, the drying time is less, sometimes just a few hours.
Apply Sealant Evenly
Even, consistent application is crucial to getting a professional look. Regardless of the product, using a sprayer or a roller helps ensure even coverage and will prevent areas of streaking. Over-saturating any one area should be avoided to ensure that pooling doesn’t occur, causing uneven curing/drying.
Using a proper application every time doesn’t just make it look better; it protects the surface to the highest degree. Examples include film-forming sealants such as Wet Look or Clear Look sealers, which form a barrier on the surface, providing added durability and a glossy finish.
Allow Proper Cure Time
After sealing, allow the surface to cure thoroughly for optimal, long-lasting results. Foot traffic should be avoided for at least 24 hours, but this can differ depending on the specific product being used.
When curing, ensure that moisture is not introduced to the area, as rain can severely mar the end product. Ensuring a complete cure will help the sealant last longer and will prevent peeling or adhesion failure down the line.
Make sure any following coat is applied only after the previous one is completely dry.
Apply Multiple Coats?
Not to mention the fact that applying two thin coats, as opposed to a single thick layer, enhances protection and lifespan. To ensure an even look, if you need to apply a second coat, apply the second coat in the opposite direction of the first coat.
This process ensures that the seal forms a durable, brilliant finish that will maintain patios, driveways, and pool decks in like-new condition for years.
Paver Sealant Types And Finishes
If you’re wondering whether or not to seal your pavers, understanding the types and finishes of sealants, such as the appropriate sealer for porous pavers, will be an important factor in your decision. The correct sealant will care for your concrete paver patio, improve its look, and increase its lifespan. Here’s a rundown of those options to assist you in choosing the best one for your pavers.
Understand Sealant Varieties
Paver sealants come in two main types: solvent-based and water-based. Solvent-based sealants provide the most durable finish of all, usually three to four years or longer depending on traffic and other conditions.
Potential downsides: They create a dark, glossy appearance with an almost oiled look that can make pavers more colorful and vibrant. Water-based sealants are a breeze to clean up. They don’t need to be stripped before reapplication, a convenience that renders them the go-to choice for many homeowners.
Most sealants are available in either one-part or two-part formulas, making the application process much easier. Surebond SB-6000 Wet Look Sealer provides the best protection against UV rays and prevents water intrusion. It’s ideal for highly exposed outdoor areas that get a lot of sun or rain.
|
Sealant Type |
Durability (Years) |
Benefits |
Popularity (%) |
|
Solvent-Based |
4–5+ |
Long-lasting, enhances color, wet look |
30 |
|
Water-Based |
2–4 |
Easy cleanup, no stripping, eco-friendly |
70 |
Select Desired Finish
The sealed finish that you select will have a big impact on the look of your pavers. Matte finishes accentuate original textures, whereas glossy finishes (such as SG+) lend a graceful, smooth, reflective appearance.
Satin finishes (LG+) are a happy medium as they will give some luster to the pavers without overpowering the natural look. To illustrate, clay bricks usually complement low-gloss finishes best, while concrete can have a dramatic appearance with shiny sealers.
Evaluate Protection Levels
Sealants vary as well in terms of how much protection they provide. Others are created to protect against stains and inclement weather, with better-grade sealants offering a superior shield against everyday use and other damaging elements.
Applying two thin coats instead of one thick coat allows all the surfaces to be covered evenly and maximizes protection.
Paver Sealing Maintenance
Keeping up with paver sealing maintenance is a great way to protect the look and structural integrity of your hardscaping for years to come. Keeping those sealed pavers looking great is equally important to keep them truly beautiful and durable for the long haul.
Here’s a step-by-step approach for how to ensure they look great for years to come.
Establish A Cleaning Routine
Regular cleaning makes sure that dirt and stains do not have time to settle in and cause irreversible damage. Plan on sweeping or pressure washing monthly with a mild cleaning solution that is safe for the sealant. Don’t use harsh materials or chemicals; these will ruin the protective seal.
Immediately remove any oil spills or organic material. Although sealed pavers can withstand most stains, they are not entirely stain-proof. As you work to clean your pavers, keep an eye out for any signs of damage or wear. Inspect for signs of fading, chalking, or surface wear.
Inspect Regularly For Damage
Regular check-ups are the best way to find problems before they start. Check for cracks, uneven discoloration, or areas where the sealant seems to be wearing off. These might indicate that a small repair or touch-up is in order.
Take note of any issues so you can repair them at your next maintenance or resealing day. These very minor cracks or chips might eventually develop into more serious cases, which can turn into more expensive repairs.
Schedule Resealing Frequency
Resealing your pavers every 3-5 years will ensure your space remains attractive and resistant to all the elements it faces. The answer is tied to how often they experience foot traffic and weather elements.
In areas where the pavers undergo lots of traffic in addition to extreme weather, resealing can be necessary even sooner. Having your pavers sealed prevents damage, helps maintain the beauty of your pavers, and helps prevent problems from reoccurring.
In addition, stopping stains from penetrating it saves you money in the long run.
Addressing Common Paver Sealing Issues
With an eye toward these common sealing issues, you can ensure the best results possible when you seal your concrete pavers. These issues often manifest as cloudy film, slipping potential, and harm to vegetation. By using a quality sealer and considering the porosity of your paver surfaces, all of these issues are preventable, allowing you to keep your pavers protected and looking great for a long time.
Cloudy White Film Explained
Cloudy films are usually caused by moisture being trapped under your paver sealer, which can happen with improper application. This problem is especially prevalent when using film-forming sealers if the surface is not entirely dry or prepped properly first.
In reality, 90% of sealing failures are a direct result of improper cleaning. To remedy this apply a specialized sealer remover or use a power washer to remove any sealer haze. Preventing this problem begins with the right preparation—make sure to clean the pavers well and that the surface is completely dry.
Apply paver sealer evenly with a sprayer and then backroll with a slit foam roller to avoid leaving sealer that may pool in low areas.
Resolving Slip Hazards
When sealing pavers, a sealed surface will often be slippery, especially if rain is involved, depending on the type of sealer used. This is especially true for smooth or glossy finishes.
To minimize this danger, select a sealer that has non-slip additives included, or you can add them in yourself prior to application. Once the pavers are sealed, give the surface a test by sprinkling a little water and see how well it beads up.
These two simple steps ensure that sealed pavers are safer without losing any of their beauty.
Plant Compatibility Concerns
Left untreated, sealant overspray has been known to kill plants exposed to the chemical composition of sealants. Avoid damaging your landscaping by covering foliage with plastic sheeting while applying.
Many sealers can hurt soil health, so choose a product formulated to be safe for the environment. With some foresight, you can make sure your plants stay healthy and safe while your pavers get sealed the right way.
Cost Of Paver Sealing
The cost of sealing your pavers, including options like concrete pavers and natural stone pavers, depends on several factors, from who does the job to the size of the paved area and the type of sealant used. Understanding these factors will help you assess if paver sealing is a wise investment for your hardscapes.
DIY VS. Professional Sealing Costs
When considering DIY versus professional paver sealing, the costs upfront are typically one of the first things weighed. If you’re interested in a DIY approach, purchase paver sealant to begin. Paver seal is typically priced from $20 to $40 per gallon and will cover anywhere from 100 to 200 square feet per gallon.
Equipment such as sprayers or rollers will be required and either rented or purchased, usually costing an additional $50 to $100. Errors, like uneven application or applying too much sealant, can result in additional costs for rectifying or repairing the damage.
In Tampa Bay, the going rate for professional services ranges from $1.25 to $2.00 per sq. This pricing represents the highly competitive market in the area. The upfront cost may seem intimidating at first. The know-how of professionals ensures uniform and complete coverage, which saves you money on future rework costs and improves final appearance.
The real value is in their expertise and efficiency, which usually results in a superior final project with longer-lasting results.
Long-Term Cost Savings
It’s not all about looks when it comes to sealing your pavers; it’s an investment that pays off. It protects the paver surface from harmful staining, weather wear and tear, and weed growth, all of which can cause expensive repairs to your surface.
With pavers sealed properly, cleaning and maintenance are much less frequent, ensuring pavers stay beautiful long after installation. As re-sealing is only required every 2-5 years, the time and cost investment pays dividends in ongoing maintenance and extension of the paver lifespan.
Factors Influencing Sealing Price
Here are a few things that can determine the overall cost of paver sealing. The larger your outdoor space is, the more you’ll spend on the project. Larger or more intricate designs are going to require additional time and materials to do the job.
The sealant you use makes a difference, too. The best sealants will offer more protection, but they often come at a higher initial cost. When hiring an expert professional service, labor is a factor. Many times, their skill will prove worth the cost by providing premium outcomes.
|
Cost Comparison |
DIY Sealing |
Professional Sealing |
|
Sealant |
$20-$40/gallon |
Included in price |
|
Equipment Costs |
$50-$100 |
Included in price |
|
Application Quality |
Varies |
Consistent and reliable |
|
Labor |
DIY effort required |
$1.25-$2.00/sq ft |
Conclusion
Whether it’s your driveway, patio, or walkway, sealing your pavers will enhance their appearance, protect your investment, and make maintenance a breeze. It’s more than cosmetic—it’s a board-certified way to protect your investment. Whether you’re dealing with a driveway, patio, or walkway, sealing keeps the surface strong and less prone to damage from weather, stains, or wear.
Consider your pavers’ existing condition, what kind of sealant you want to use, and how much maintenance you are willing to do. If sealing feels like the right choice, take the time to pick the right product and follow the steps carefully.
Are you interested in learning more? Go forth and seal your pavers with confidence and provide them with the long-term maintenance they need. They’ll repay you by remaining acutely pointed for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Is Paver Sealing?
Paver sealing involves applying a protective sealant to your concrete pavers, enhancing their appearance while guarding against future stains and pollutants. This process prolongs the lifespan of your paved areas, ensuring they maintain a rich color and resist weather damage.
2. How Do I Know If My Pavers Need Sealing?
If your concrete pavers are faded, readily soak up moisture, or show other signs of staining, restoration through paver sealing is a good option. Look for color fading or surface erosion, as these are indications that sealing is necessary.
3. How Often Should Pavers Be Sealed?
Usually, concrete pavers will need to be re-sealed in 3–5 years, influenced by weather, traffic, and the quality sealer type used in the paver sealing industry.
4. What Are The Benefits Of Sealing Pavers?
Sealing patio pavers protects them from stains, UV damage, and weathering while increasing the life of the pavers, inhibiting vegetation growth, and enhancing their natural texture.
5. Can I Seal The Pavers Myself?
Just make sure you take the time to clean, prep, and apply a quality sealer properly to avoid patchy coverage or other errors in your paver installations.
6. Are There Different Types Of Paver Sealants?
What is the difference between water-based and solvent-based sealants? These sealants are available in a variety of finishes, including matte, semi-gloss, and high-gloss, making them suitable for different paving applications. Select one based on the appearance and level of protection required for your paver patio sealing.
7. How Much Does Paver Sealing Cost?
The price of paver patio sealing depends on the square footage, type of sealant, and labor. On average, the cost of professional sealing for concrete pavers comes in at $1–$3 per square foot.
Bring Your Outdoor Spaces Back To Life With Expert Paver Sealing By DPG Design & Build!
Imagine your driveway, patio, or pool deck looking as fresh and vibrant as the day it was installed—beautifully protected, clean, and enhancing the value of your home. At DPG Design & Build, we specialize in professional paver sealing services designed to preserve and rejuvenate your outdoor spaces. With over 30 years of experience serving Danville and Walnut Creek, California, we’re the trusted experts in paver care and maintenance.
Our experienced team, featured on HGTV’s Curb Appeal and the Discovery Channel’s Renovation Nation, understands how to protect your investment, maintain beauty, and extend the life of your pavers. Using advanced sealing techniques and high-quality sealants, we ensure every detail is meticulously cared for, leaving your outdoor areas pristine and inviting.
Your Revitalized Outdoor Space Awaits:
- Want to enhance the color and beauty of your pavers? Our sealing process restores vibrancy and protects against fading.
- Tired of dealing with weeds, mold, or stains? Professional sealing prevents weed growth, staining, and erosion.
- Looking to boost your home’s curb appeal and value? Our expert paver sealing instantly enhances aesthetics and longevity.
At DPG Design & Build, we don’t just seal pavers—we restore outdoor pride. Our tailored consultations help you select the right sealing solutions to match your specific needs and goals. Whether you’re sealing newly installed pavers or refreshing existing spaces, our team will guide you every step of the way.
Book your complimentary consultation today and bring your pavers back to life!
