How to Seal Pool Deck Pavers
Discolored pavers around the pool deck can be annoying as they bring unappealing pictures. This results from not sealing your pavers to protect them from UV lights, which causes their pigments to fade.
Since starting Aviara Pavers in 2017, I've helped homeowners understand how to seal pool deck pavers. This article will guide you on sealing pool deck pavers to eliminate mold growth and unsightly discoloration in the poolside or backyard.
How to Seal Pool Deck Pavers
To seal pool deck pavers, you first need to sweep the area and remove tough stains using a cleaning solution. Once dried, apply paver sand and pour sealer across the area. Wait for at least 24 hours to dry the sealant completely.
When pavers hold more water over time, they provide a conducive environment for molds and other weeds to grow between them. This later leads to paver shifting, cracking, and chipping when exposed to certain weather conditions. At Aviara Pavers, we install pool deck pavers and ensure the sealing is done correctly.
Step-By-Step Guide on Pool Deck Paver Sealing Process
Sealing pavers is an easy project you can do in a matter of time. However, you want to ensure you do the task perfectly to avoid unnecessary repairs after every short time. That said, follow these simple steps to seal your pavers correctly:
Step 1: Gather the Materials
You need a few materials to help you carry out the work quickly. Most of these materials are available in local hardware or online stores. You will need the following:
Paver sealer: Ensure you purchase a sealer labeled “waterproof sealer” since poolside areas experience water frequently
Brush and a rag: The brush applies the sealant, while the rag will help you avoid pouring it (sealer) in water.
Spryer: You will need this for cleaning the area and applying the sealer.
Stain remover: You can use muriatic acid (mix with water in a ratio of 1:1), liquid dish soap, or laundry detergent to help you remove tough stains quickly.
A broom: This cleans the area before the sealing process begins.
Dish soap and a bucket: Dish soap is ideal because it is gentle on pavers. The bucket will help you hold the solution. Get a good bucket (big enough) to avoid mixing the cleaning solution after a short time.
Paver sand: You must apply this sand before applying the sealer.
A blower (optional): It can help blow out molds and other weeds after uprooting. You can also use it to speed up the paver drying process after cleaning.
Safety equipment: You will need gloves, safety boots, and goggles.
Step 2: Sweep the Area
Start by removing molds and other weeds that may have grown in the area. Next, use the broom to sweep the surface of the pavers.
Start from one corner to the other. This technique ensures you clean the entire area.
Step 3: Remove Tough Stains and Clean the Area
This is one of the crucial stages of sealing your pavers. You want to ensure the area is clean before applying your expensive sealer. Here are the things to do in this step:
Remove the rust or tough stains: Mix the muriatic acid and water in a glass (the ratio should be 1:1). Pour the solution where you see the rust or tough stains, and use a brush to remove them.
Mix the correct amount of water and soap dish: After creating the cleaning solution, pour it into the entire area and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps loosen other tough stains.
Pre-wet the area: During the 10 minutes of waiting, use the horse pipe to pre-wet the area.
Scrub the paver surface: After 10 minutes, use the cleaning brush to clean the entire area. Again, start from one corner to the other to avoid confusion.
Rinse with clean water and let dry: After cleaning the area, use clean water to rinse and let dry. You can use a blower to speed up the drying process.
Step 4: Apply Paver Sand
After cleaning the area and ensuring it is dry, apply the paver sand. This sand helps fill the gaps between the pavers. The amount of sand you need depends on the size and style of your pool deck.
Start by pouring it in heaps at different locations.
Use a brush to spread the sand throughout the area, ensuring all the gaps have been filled.
After that, sprinkle a little water in the area and allow it to dry. The water helps set the sand between the pavers.
Step 5: Seal the Pool Deck Pavers
After the area has dried, it is now time to apply the sealer.
Take your brush and rag and start sealing the pool coping.
Hold the rag in a position that protects the sealer from pouring into the pool water.
Now that you have sealed the pool coping, it is time to seal the other areas. Pour the sealer into the sprayer and spray the entire place.
Allow the sealer to dry at least 24 hours before using the area.
That's it! You have successfully sealed your pavers!
Related Questions
What Type of Sealer Is Best for Pavers?
The best type of sealer for pavers is penetrating sealers with large particles of sealant. The advantage of sealant with large particles is that it cannot penetrate past the small surface pores of the concrete pavers.
Do Sealing Pavers Make Them Waterproof?
Yes, most sealers are waterproof, making your pavers repel any water poured on them. Sealing pavers also provide a glossy sheen that enhances natural beauty in your poolside or backyard.
How Long Does Paver Sealing Last?
A well-applied sealing should last for up to three years. Regular maintenance is what ensures your pavers last longer. Other factors like traffic and weather also play a part in paver longevity.
Conclusion
Paver sealing is a simple DIY project. However, it's best to get help from a reputable company that follows ICPI guidelines for sealing pool decks, patios, walkways, and driveways. Sealing pavers is essential as it helps them last longer by protecting them from UV lights and other damaging elements.