It is truly amazing to think about how long humans have been using pavers. For over 5,000 years, pavers were used to create durable and long-lasting roads. The Romans were one of the first civilizations to perfect the use of pavers for their famous roads.
Fast forward to today, pavers are still a popular choice for creating beautiful and functional surfaces for driveways, patios, walkways, pool decks, and more. And just like any investment in your home or property, proper maintenance is crucial in order to keep these paver surfaces looking their best.
That’s where paver sealers comes in.
In this article, we’ll discuss not only sealing pavers pros and cons, but we'll also give you some tips on how to choose the best paver sealing product for your unique paver surface. We'll even cover how to properly apply paver sealer.
Why is paver sealer important?
First and foremost, paver sealer acts as a protective barrier against the elements. From rain to sun exposure, paver sealers protect against fading, discoloration, and wear and tear. Paver sealer can also work to prevent staining from oil or other spills.
Another benefit of paver sealer is that some sealers can enhance the colour and overall appearance of your paver surface, whilst some others work to retain the natural appearance.
When deciding on whether or not to seal pavers, it’s important to consider the material of your paver surface.
Some of the more popular paver materials include limestone, granite, travertine, brick, and concrete. Although each material possesses a certain level of durability, exposure to the elements can affect their longevity and quality. For example, unsealed or exposed brick, concrete, stone, and other paver surfaces can discolour or bulge when moisture seeps in.
Properly sealing paver surfaces keeps them resistant to water damage and maintains their aesthetic appeal.
Choosing the right paver sealer
When it comes to choosing the best paver sealing product, be sure to do your research. Different paver sealers offer different levels of protection and shine. Some paver sealers are also better suited for certain paver materials.
The range of paver sealers available from Netherlands-based manufacturer Stain-Proof offer the best in paver protection and enhancement. Their paving sealers are designed specifically for various paver materials, including brick, concrete, travertine, and more.
Stain-Proof's Colour Enhancing Sealer offers a durable defence against the elements while enhancing paver colour and shine with a natural finish. This is a penetrating sealer that provides long-lasting protection against stains, dirt, and weathering. Colour Enhancer Sealer is ideal for use on a wide variety of porous surfaces, including:
- all types of natural stone
- clay and terracotta tiles
- brick pavers
- concrete
- polished concrete
- terrazzo.
Another popular paver sealing option from Stain-Proof is their Original Premium Impregnating Sealer. This impregnating, invisible and breathable sealer provides protection from water or oil-based stains as well as damage caused by water and dissolved salts. It is easy to apply and will not change the appearance of your surfaces. With its unique bonding technology, your pavers will stay looking like new for years to come. And if you apply this sealer with a Stain-Proof Accredited Applicator, the company will provide you with a written performance warranty lasting 15 years! Now, that's what we call paver protection.
How to apply paver sealer
Now that you’ve chosen your paver sealer, it’s time to learn how to properly apply it. Prior to sealing pavers, make sure your paver surface is clean and dry. Any dirt or debris can prevent the paver sealer from properly adhering to the paver surface. Stain-Proof Alkaline Cleaner is the best paver cleaner to be used.
Once your paver surface is clean and dry, you’re ready to apply the first coat. For best results, use a high-quality roller, lamb wool applicator, or spray pack specifically designed for paver sealing. Begin at the furthest corner of your paver surface and work your way toward the exit point, applying an even coat of paver sealer in overlapping strokes.
Be sure to follow the specific drying and recoating instructions on your paver sealer product. In general, allow the initial coat of sealer to dry for at least 24 hours before applying a second coat - This will vary from surface to surface and it’s important to follow the instructions on the product. Some applications do require a wet-on-wet application.
Pros and cons of paver sealing
Pros
Sealing paver surfaces offers a range of benefits, including:
- Protection against fading, discoloration, and wear and tear
- Resistance to stains and moisture damage
- Enhancement of paver colour (Stain-Proof Original Impregnating Sealer Does not change the colour)
Cons
Choosing the wrong paver sealer can have the following consequences:
- Inadequate paver protection
- Unnatural paver appearance
- Pavers becoming slippery with water or other substances
- Sealer flaking or peeling
As you can see, it is crucial to choose the best paver sealer for your specific paver material!
Final thoughts
It may have been the Romans who perfected the use of pavers but it was the Dutch who perfected the art and science of paver sealing.
Putting down pavers is a big investment in time, effort, and money. Choosing the right paver sealer for your purposes is crucial if you want to extend the life and enhance the appearance of your paved surfaces. And so is knowing how to properly apply paver sealer. Don’t skimp on paver sealing – it’s worth the effort for beautiful, protected paver surfaces for years to come.
Interested in learning more about paver sealing and Stain-Proof’s paver sealer products?
Talk to the team at The Landscape Store - we're paver sealing experts and proud stockists of Stain-Proof paver sealers. Not only do we carry the best paver sealers on the market, but we also have an extensive range of paver cleaners when it is time for your routine paver maintenance. Visit us at The Landscape Store today to learn more about paver sealing and choose the best paver sealer and cleaner for your project.