Many people choose pavers for their driveways, patios, walkways, and pool decks due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and versatility. However, without proper maintenance, even high-quality pavers can become stained, faded, or damaged over time. If you want to effectively protect and preserve your investment, consider sealing your pavers. 

What are Pavers?

Pavers, also known as paving stones, are made of natural stone, brick, concrete, or other materials. These individual stones are laid together in a pattern on top of a foundation of compacted sand to create a durable and attractive outdoor surface. Pavers are commonly used for patios, walkways, driveways, and pool decks, but they can be used for any outdoor surface.

What is Paver Sealing?

Paver sealing involves applying a protective sealant to the surface of the pavers. This creates a barrier against the elements and prevents water, oil, dirt, and other contaminates from wearing away the surface. It also helps preserve the color and stabilize the joint sand, reducing weed growth and insect infestation. 

Benefits of Paver Sealing 

Protection Against Stains and Spills

The porous nature of unsealed pavers allows them to absorb oil, grease, and other stains easily. A high-quality sealant creates a protective layer, making spills easier to clean and reducing the risk of permanent staining and damage. 

Enhanced Appearance

Sealing enhances the beautiful natural colors and textures of the pavers, giving them a vibrant and appealing look that makes your outdoor space appear fresh and well-maintained, boosting your curb appeal and property value.

Weed and Moss Prevention

Sealed joints keep dirt out and prevent the growth of weeds, moss, and grass, helping maintain a cleaner and more polished look without constant care and attention. 

UV Protection

Constant sun exposure can cause pavers to fade and lose their original color. A UV-resistant sealant protects against sun damage and keeps your pavers looking bright and new for longer. 

Weather Resistance

Rain, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles can erode the surface and joint sand of unsealed pavers, Sealing provides a waterproof layer that shields your pavers from harsh weather conditions. 

Efflorescence Prevention

Sealing pavers helps prevent efflorescence, the white, powdery mineral substance that can sometimes appear on the surface of pavers, dulling the colors and making them look unappealing.

Insect Prevention 

Ants love to build mounds in the empty spaces between pavers. A sealant deters them, keeping your pavers safe from damage A sealant will also prevent other insect or crittle debris and damage. 

Enhanced Traction

Sealed surfaces can be safer in wet conditions as they provide better traction and reduce the risk of slipping, which is particularly important in areas with snow and ice.

Easier Maintenance

Sealed pavers are easier to clean and require less frequent deep cleaning. Dirt and debris are less likely to cling to the smooth, sealed surface. Less cleaning also means reduced maintenance costs, putting more money in your pocket. 

When Should You Seal Your Pavers?

Ideally, pavers should be sealed 60 to 90 days after installation to allow for proper settling and cleaning. Avoid sealing your pavers during really hot or cold days, as this could affect the sealer’s performance. Aim for 50 to 90 degrees and avoid days when it’s likely to rain. 

Pavers should be resealed every three to five years, depending on the amount of traffic they experience, exposure to the elements, and the type of sealant used. You should reseal your pavers if they show signs of dullness, staining, moss growth, or sand loss. 

Choosing the Right Sealant

Not all sealants are the same. The kind of sealant you should get depends on your paver type, desired finish, and specific environmental conditions. You can choose from: 

Solvent-Based Sealers — These offer a high-gloss finish and bring out color vibrancy. However, they may have strong odors and VOCs.
Water-Based Sealers — These are environmentally friendly, lower odor, and great for residential use. They come in various finishes and provide solid protection.
Film-Forming Sealers — Film-forming sealers create a visible layer over the surface, enhancing gloss and offering strong protection.
Penetrating Sealers — These sealers absorb into the paver without altering the surface appearance, ideal for those wanting a natural matte look. 

If you aren’t sure which sealant to use, consider consulting a professional to ensure the best results and long-lasting protection. 

Should You Seal Your Pavers? 

Paver sealing not only enhances the beauty of your outdoor surfaces but also protects them from damage and deterioration. Whether you want to boost curb appeal, increase property value, or simply make maintenance easier, you won’t regret investing in paver sealing.