Do Pavers Need to Be Sealed?
Do pavers need to be sealed? This is a common question among homeowners looking to keep their outdoor spaces in top condition. Most of the homeowners who ask this question always want to have an idea of how often they should be sealing their pavers, if at all.
Do Pavers Need to Be Sealed?
No, pavers do not need to be sealed since they are already very durable and tough. Pavers have the natural ability to resist fading, staining, and other damage that can occur over time. That is why most pavers are made of materials like concrete, brick, stone, or slate that are highly resistant to wear and tear.
However, while pavers do not need to be sealed, doing so can extend their lifespan and keep them looking new. Sealing pavers can also help prevent the growth of moss, mold, lichen, algae, and other organisms that can cause discoloration. When these organisms are sealed off from the paver surface, they cannot penetrate the pores and cause staining.
Sealing pavers can also make them easier to clean since dirt, grime, and other debris will not be able to penetrate the sealant and build up on the surface. When sealed, you only need to sweep or hose off the pavers to keep them clean. So, while sealing pavers is not necessary, some manufacturers do recommend sealing your pavers after installation to extend the life of your pavers and keep them looking new.
What Happens if You Don’t Seal Your Pavers?
Sealing your concrete pavers is actually a good idea if you want to keep them looking new for longer. That is why some manufacturers recommend it so that you get value for your money. The following are some of the things that can happen if you don’t seal them:
The color of your pavers may fade: Most of the time, the sun’s UV rays can cause the color of your pavers to fade. If you live in an area with a lot of sun exposure, then it is a good idea to seal your concrete pavers to prevent fading.
The pavers may become stained: If not sealed, they are more likely to become stained by oil, dirt, grease, and other types of liquids. Sealing the concrete will create a barrier that will make it more difficult for liquids to penetrate and cause staining.
The pavers may become cracked: Over time, the pavers are not resistant to scratching and may become cracked due to weathering, foot traffic, and other factors. Sealing them makes them compact and less likely to crack.
The pavers may have algae, mold, or mildew growing on them: These growths are unsightly and can be difficult to remove. Sealing the pavers will prevent these growths from occurring in the first place.
The pavers may become difficult to clean: A sealed concrete paver is much easier to clean than an unsealed one. All you need to do is sweep or hose off the surface to remove dirt, grime, and other debris.
How Do You Seal Pavers?
Sealing pavers is not difficult; however, it should be done carefully so that you have a professional-looking result. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Clean the pavers before sealing: The first step is to clean the pavers to remove any dirt, grime, or debris that may be on the surface. You can sweep them with a broom or use a hose to power wash them.
Wait for the pavers to dry: Once they are clean, you need to wait for them to dry completely. This usually takes a few hours. If you want to speed up the process, you can use a leaf blower or fans to help the pavers dry more quickly.
Apply the sealer: Once the pavers are dry, you can begin to apply the sealer. You will need to read the instructions on the sealer container to determine how much sealer to apply and how long you need to wait before it dries.
Allow the sealer to dry: Once you have applied the sealer, you need to wait for it to dry completely. This usually takes a few hours. Once it is dry, you can enjoy your newly sealed pavers!
Should You Get a Professional to Seal Your Pavers?
The process of sealing pavers is not difficult; however, it is important to do it carefully so that you have a professional-looking result. If you are unsure about your ability to seal them properly, you may want to hire a professional to do it for you. A professional will have the experience and knowledge to ensure that your pavers are sealed correctly.
They will also be able to provide you with advice on how to maintain your pavers so that they last for many years. When hiring a professional, be sure to ask about their experience, what type of sealer they use, and how much it will cost.
Aviara Pavers is a reputable company that provides high-quality pavers sealing services. We follow ICPI standards and certifications for all our pavers projects, such as paver installation, repair, and maintenance We also deal in swimming pool coping, patios, driveways, and outdoor spaces. Get in touch with us and get value for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should You Wait to Seal Pavers After Installation?
You should wait at least 60-90 days after your pavers are installed before you seal them. This will give the pavers time to settle and the joints to compact. It will also allow any efflorescence (a white powder that can form on the surface of the pavers) to dissipate.
How Often Should You Seal Pavers?
You should seal them every 2-3 years. This will ensure that they remain in good condition and continue to look great. However, if you live in an area with a lot of traffic or weather extremes, you may need to seal them more often. That way, the sealed pavers can last for many years.
Conclusion
It is not necessary to have your pavers sealed. However, doing so greatly extends their lifespan, makes them easier to clean, and prevents the growth of mold, mildew, and algae. Ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions and allow the sealer to dry completely before using the area.