Your once pristine paved driveway or patio may sooner or later have stubborn stains, faded colours and weeds.
Such a loss in appeal isn’t a desirable sight to behold. Since you invested money in the first place to build a functional and aesthetic outdoor space, you’d want it to retain its attractiveness.
The average homeowner spends about USD$1,800 to USD$9,000 for a new driveway installation, which is quite a lot of money to see going down the drain.
Paver sealing is an excellent solution to most of these woes. Basically, it adds a protective layer on the pavers, safeguarding them from the elements and allowing them to look good for a long time.
This article explores paver sealing in detail. It covers its importance, as well as when and how to seal.
Read on for the details.
Benefits of paver sealing
Pavement sealing isn’t a mere cosmetic fix. It provides functional benefits, ensuring you enjoy your walkway or patio for as many years as possible.
Stain protection
Applying a sealer forms a barricade on the surface of the pavers. This prevents the penetration of spills, dirt, grease and other stain-causing dirt into the paving blocks.
It’ll also be easier to clean stains, as they’re just superficial, not soaked into the pavers.
UV resistance
Harsh UV rays from the sun are the usual culprit for faded pavers. Sealing protects them from these merciless rays, allowing them to retain their vibrant colour for much longer.
Enhanced durability
Sealing helps prevent cracking, chipping and erosion.
The result is extended lifespan for the pavers. Moreover, you’re saved from the hefty expenses of repairs.
Joint sand stabilisation
Sealing the pavers helps keep joint sand in position. Thus, no need to frequently replace it, saving you effort and time.
Weed and moss prevention
Weed and moss typically take root between paving blocks. Sealing fills in the crevices where weeds grow; thus, weed and moss removal won’t be a significant issue.
And there’s a higher chance of experiencing these benefits firsthand if you seek the help of professional paver sealing services. They’ve got commercial-grade sealant options suitable for various exterior materials, so you’re sure to find one that suits your requirements.
Determining the right time for sealing
You must know when to seal pavers to get maximum protection. Below are some essential tips:
Initial sealing
It’s advisable to seal pavers immediately after installation. This initial coat provides protection against stains and the elements.
In the process of construction, the pavers may get exposed to construction debris and spills. Sealing them immediately locks out these hazards, which sets the stage for years or decades of easy maintenance.
Resealing frequency
After the initial sealing, it’s recommended to reseal your pavers every three to five years. But this isn’t a rule written on stone.
You can reseal sooner if you notice signs of fading, stubborn stains and wear on the paver surface.
Best weather condition
The weather conditions at the time of sealing determine how effective the sealer will be. Preferably, seal your pavers on dry days with mild temperatures, in the range of 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
High temperatures cause quick drying of the sealer, leading to a weaker bond. On the other hand, cold weather slows down curing, also diminishing the sealer’s strength, given that the process thrives at a given optimal temperature.
Taking into account these basic timing principles will ensure a long-lasting sealant.
Choosing the right paver sealer
There are several different paver sealers on the market. You must choose the right one for guaranteed functionality and longevity.
Below are some essential choice criteria:
Solvent-based vs. water-based
Solvent-based sealers soak deeper, making them more durable. But their downside is the strong odour and the need for special cleanup products.
On the other hand, water-based sealers are easier to apply and clean up and are eco-friendly.
Gloss level options
Paver sealers have varying gloss levels. Options include natural look, matte finish and high-gloss finish.
The natural look is your go-to option if you want to preserve the original appearance of your pavers.
On the other hand, a high-gloss finish appears wet and shiny.
A matte finish provides a subtle sheen, enhancing the good looks without looking overly shiny.
Type of pavers
When choosing a sealer, consider the type of pavers you have.
For concrete pavers, you can go with both water- and solvent-based sealers. But for natural stone pavers, the solvent-based sealers would be better because of their deeper penetration potential.
Traffic level
Another critical consideration is the amount of traffic.
High-traffic areas, like driveways and patios, work well with durable solvent-based sealers. Low-traffic areas, like garden paths or poolside, may do with water-based sealers.
Choosing the right sealer for your application guarantees you a long life of service.
DIY vs. professional paver sealing
You can indeed seal your pavers independently, as long as you master the how. Follow the following steps:
Preparation
The pavers must be completely dry and sparkling clean before you apply the sealer.
First, sweep away loose debris, then pressure wash the pavers to get rid of all dirt and stains.
Leave it to dry completely for at least 24 hours.
Repair cracks
For minor cracks, repair them with appropriate fillers. This prevents water from seeping in.
If water penetrates into the paver, it can erode the base material and compromise stability.
Cracks are also a thriving spot for moss and can lead to staining.
Apply sealer
You can apply the sealer with a sprayer or roller. Large areas may require a long-handled roller or sprayer for faster working.
Apply the sealer evenly using long, overlapping strokes.
Allow to dry
Give the paver 24 to 48 hours before using it. If it rains, you may want to cover the pavers with polythene sheets to allow them to cure to sufficient strength.
While DIY pavement sealing is an excellent option, you may want to hire professionals for the job in the following circumstances:
Extensive areas
Sealing a large patio or a driveway stretching hundreds of meters can be a time-consuming job. An expert contractor will have the tools and expertise to complete such large projects efficiently.
Challenging repairs
If your pavers have major cracks, stains or uneven surface, consider hiring a professional. Their expertise, experience and equipment endowment enable them to tackle such complex projects successfully.
Specialised effects
Professionals can offer specialised sealing services that may be beyond your scope. These include decorative finishes with colours and patterns.
Carefully consider the nitty-gritty of your project before settling on either the DIY or professional route.
Conclusion
Paver sealing provides several benefits that protect your precious investment, making pavers look new for many years. Moreover, sealing safeguards the pavers against stains, fading and erosion, and makes maintenance easy.
Your winning point is working with an experienced installer. Also, a high-quality sealer ensures superb looks and longer-lasting protection.
