The Ultimate Guide to Sealing Pavers: Why, When and How to Protect Your Investment

1. Why Should You Seal Your Pavers?

• Enhances Color and Appearance: Over time, UV rays from the sun can cause pavers to fade. Sealing brings out their natural colors and can even give them a wet or glossy look, depending on the type of sealer used.
• Protects Against Stains: Pavers used for driveways or patios are prone to oil spills, grease and other stains. A sealant forms a protective barrier that prevents these substances from penetrating the surface of the paver.
• Prevents Weed Growth: Sealing the pavers helps to lock the sand between the joints, reducing the chance of weed growth and preventing shifting.
• Weather Protection: Sealants create a water-resistant layer that protects pavers from rain, snow and freeze-thaw cycles, which can lead to cracking or shifting over time.

2. When is the Best Time to Seal Pavers?

• Wait for at Least 30 Days After Installation: If your pavers are newly installed, allow at least 30 days for them to settle and for efflorescence (a white chalky substance) to escape from the pavers before sealing.
• Choose Dry Weather: Sealing should only be done in dry conditions, with no rain forecasted for at least 24 hours after application. The surface also needs to be completely dry before sealing.
• Temperature Considerations: Avoid sealing in extreme temperatures. Ideal conditions are when the temperature is between 50°F and 90°F (10°C to 32°C).

3. Types of Sealers for Pavers

• Film-Forming Sealers: These provide a glossy or wet-look finish, making the pavers appear shiny and more vibrant. They are excellent for enhancing color, but can make the surface more slippery when wet.
• Penetrating Sealers: These absorb into the paver without leaving a glossy finish, offering protection from stains and moisture without changing the appearance of the surface. These are ideal for a more natural look.

4. Steps to Properly Seal Pavers

Step 1: Clean the Surface

• Before applying any sealant, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean the pavers. Use a pressure washer to remove dirt, grime and any old sealant.
• Address any stains (oil, grease or mildew) with appropriate cleaners. Let the pavers dry completely after cleaning.

Step 2: Remove Weeds and Re-sand Joints

• Pull out any weeds or moss that have grown between the pavers. If needed, reapply joint sand to fill gaps, ensuring stability.
• Use polymeric sand, which hardens when wet, to prevent future weed growth and increase durability.

Step 3: Apply the Sealer

• Choose the right type of sealer based on your preferences. Use a sprayer or a roller to apply an even coat of sealant.
• Work in small sections to avoid streaks, ensuring every paver is coated.
• Avoid over-application, as it can lead to a cloudy finish or puddling. Two thin coats are often better than one thick coat.

Step 4: Let it Dry

• Allow the first coat to dry for at least 24 hours before deciding if a second coat is necessary.
• Keep the area free from foot or vehicle traffic during the drying period, typically 24 to 48 hours.

5. How Often Should You Reseal Pavers?

• Exposure to weather: In areas with heavy rainfall or intense sunlight, resealing may be needed more frequently.
• Foot or vehicle traffic: High-traffic areas might require more frequent resealing.
• Type of sealer used: Some premium sealants offer longer-lasting protection, while cheaper alternatives may wear off sooner.

Protect Your Investment with Sealing