Paving Stones: To Seal or Not to Seal?
Do I Need to Seal My Pavers?
The short answer is yes. Applying sealer to your pavers is a crucial step in maintaining their appearance and longevity. Whether you have a patio, walkway, driveway, or pool deck constructed with pavers, using a sealant will keep them looking as pristine as the day they were laid.
Over-application however, can be detrimental, leading to a cloudy appearance. It's important to know the right time for resealing to maintain the desired aesthetic. This guide will help you understand when and how to properly seal your pavers.
Do Concrete Pavers Need Sealing?
Absolutely. Due to their porous nature, concrete pavers are susceptible to stains if left unsealed. Applying a sealant not only prevents staining but also aids in preserving the colour.
Does the Type of Sealant Finish Affect Protection?
Paver sealants come in two main finishes: film-forming (giving a gloss or semi-gloss look) and non-film-forming (resulting in a matte appearance). Film-forming sealants, including types that enhance the pavers' appearance with a Wet Look or Clear Look, provide superior protection by forming a physical barrier on the surface. Non-film-forming sealants, offering a Natural Look or Color Boost, also provide solid protection and tend to last longer.
When Should New Pavers Be Sealed?
The timing for sealing new pavers depends on the type of sealant used. For non-film-forming sealants, a week is sufficient. However, if you're using a film-forming sealant, it's best to wait 30 days to ensure no moisture is trapped underneath the sealant layer.
Preparation Before Sealing
Pressure cleaning your pavers is a crucial step before sealing. This not only removes surface contaminants but also opens the pores of the pavers for better sealant absorption. For older pavers, this preparation step helps remove any efflorescence or stains, preparing the surface for sealing.
Optimal Conditions for Applying Sealant
During the Summer the necessary drying time post-clean is typically a few hours. The ideal temperature for sealant application is between 10-30 degrees Celsius. For solvent-based sealants, which evaporate more quickly, cooler temperatures are preferable.
Frequency of Reapplication
As a general guideline, resealing pavers every 2-3 years is recommended. Signs of wear on film-forming sealants and noticeable colour changes during wet conditions for non-film-forming sealants can indicate it's time to reapply. It's important to remember that pavers may appear darker after heavy rainfall, but this should not be confused with sealant failure.
