Have you recently installed a paver walkway, patio, or driveway? Are you looking for a way to make it last as long as possible? If so, sealing your pavers is the next step.

Here at Betz Works, we’ve been providing paving and sealcoating services to California customers for decades, and we’ve compiled our extensive knowledge into this guide.

Key Takeaways

  • To seal pavers, start by cleaning and preparing the surface. Next, repair and refill joints, apply the sealant, and allow the area to cure. 
  • To ensure a successful job, only seal your pavers during dry weather at least 1-3 months after the surface was installed. 
  • While DIY sealing can be rewarding, you may want to hire a professional paving contractor for large jobs. 

Before You Get Started

1. Pick the Right Time

Seal pavers during dry weather for proper adhesion. 

For new pavers, wait 1-3 months after they have settled, depending on the climate. 

Avoid sealing on rainy or very humid days to prevent moisture issues.

2. Decide if You Want to DIY or Call a Professional

Assess your skills and comfort level with sealing pavers. 

It can be a rewarding DIY project that saves money but requires careful preparation and application. 

If the job is large or you’re short on time, hiring a professional is generally the best bet.

3. Gather Your Supplies and Tools

Before sealing your pavers, gather essentials like a sealant, a sprayer or roller, gloves, safety glasses, a pressure washer or broom, and painter’s tape, which you’ll need to protect nearby surfaces.

4. Choose the Right Sealer

There are different sealers for different pavers. 

Water-based sealers work well for porous pavers made of materials like concrete since they penetrate without changing the appearance too much. 

On the other hand, solvent-based sealers provide a glossy finish and are great for bringing out the colors in clay or natural stone pavers. 

When picking a sealer, think about the finish you want—matte, semi-gloss, or high-gloss—and consider factors like the sealant’s durability, UV resistance, and how easy it is to apply for lasting protection.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Sealing Pavers

1. Clean and Prepare the Pavers

preparing the pavers

Cleaning and preparing your pavers before sealing is crucial for a long-lasting, visually appealing finish. 

Proper prep helps avoid issues like poor adhesion, uneven coating, or premature wear.

Proper preparation also reveals the true color and texture of the pavers, which helps create an attractive, consistent finished product. 

Finally, a clean, dry surface allows for an even application of the sealer, avoiding blotchy spots and pooling.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Remove Surface Debris: Sweep away leaves, twigs, and other debris from the paver surface.
  • Pre-Treat Stains: Spot clean stains like oil, grease, or algae with a concrete cleaner or mild detergent. Lightly scrub with a brush if needed.
  • Pressure Wash: Deep clean the pavers with a pressure washer, ensuring all dirt and residues are removed. Use a gentle pressure setting to avoid damage.
  • Allow to Dry Completely: Let the pavers dry completely after washing. This step is crucial for proper sealer adhesion and may take a few hours to a full day, depending on the weather.
  • Sweep Sand into Joints: If your pavers have sand joints, sweep fresh sand into any gaps after cleaning to maintain stability.
  • Protect Nearby Surfaces: Cover adjacent surfaces with painter’s tape to prevent them from being sealed during application.

2. Repair and Refill Joints

Before applying the sealer, make sure all joints between the pavers are properly fixed and filled. 

This keeps everything looking uniform and strong. 

Here’s how to repair and refill joints step-by-step:

  • Inspect Joints: Look for cracks, gaps, or loose material in the joints.
  • Remove Loose Material: Use a screwdriver or small brush to get rid of loose sand or debris.
  • Fill Large Gaps: Fill big gaps with a jointing compound or polymeric sand designed for use on pavers. Make sure to follow all manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.
  • Apply Sand: Spread the polymeric sand over the pavers, making sure it fills all the joints.
  • Sweep Sand: Sweep the sand into the joints with a broom until they are full and level with the edges.
  • Compact Sand: Compact the sand using a plate compactor or tamper to ensure stability and prevent movement.
  • Add More Sand if Needed: Check the joints after the first round of compacting, and add more sand if necessary. Repeat sweeping and compacting as needed.
  • Get rid of Excess Sand: Sweep off any extra sand from the top of the pavers for a clean surface before sealing.

3. Apply the Sealant

Now that your pavers are cleaned and you’ve repaired all the joints, it’s time to apply the sealant.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Prepare the Sealant: Read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow all directions carefully. Stir or shake the sealant mixture if needed.
  • Apply with Roller or Sprayer: Use a quality roller or sprayer. Start at one corner and work systematically across the surface.
  • Use the Right Amount: Generously apply a flood coat to the paver surface, ensuring the sealer penetrates both the surface and the sand joints. This technique allows the sealer to soak thoroughly into the joints. Apply the sealer evenly to prevent pooling or uneven drying.
  • Use a Brush for Edges: Use a handheld brush for tight spaces and edges that the roller or sprayer can’t reach.
  • Allow to Dry: Let the sealant dry as recommended before walking or driving on the surface.
  • Inspect for Missed Spots: After drying, check for missed spots and apply more if necessary.
  • Apply a Second Coat (If Needed): Some sealants need a second coat, but the first coat should be allowed to dry for at least 24 hours before you get to work on the second layer. As always, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

4. Allow the Area to Cure

Allowing pavers to cure after sealing is crucial for a durable and long-lasting finish. 

The curing process lets the sealant penetrate the paver material and bond with both the surface and the sand joints.

This bond is essential for optimal protection against water, stains, and UV rays. 

If not cured properly, the sealant can peel off, discolor, or fail to protect the pavers, leading to costly repairs.

  • Curing time for pavers depends on the sealant type, weather, and manufacturer guidelines.
  • Generally, pavers should cure for 24-48 hours before you allow foot traffic in the area and at least 72 hours before any vehicle traffic.
  • Keep the area free from traffic, dirt, leaves, and water during this period.

Tips for Paver Maintenance

Follow these tips to ensure the longevity and beauty of your newly-sealed pavers:

  • Clean Them Regularly: Sweep your pavers often to remove dirt, leaves, and debris, preventing stains and moss growth.
  • Pressure Wash: Occasionally use a pressure washer to deep clean the surface and remove tough stains. Be careful not to damage the pavers or dislodge the sand in the joints.
  • Remove Weeds: Pull weeds by hand or use a weed killer to prevent them from displacing your pavers and ruining the look.
  • Replenish Sand Joints: Regularly add sand to the joints to keep them stable and reduce weed growth. Polymeric sand is a good choice for added strength.
  • Reseal Regularly: Apply a sealant every 1-2 years to protect against water damage, stains, and UV rays. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
  • Address Stains Quickly: Clean spills and stains right away to prevent them from setting in. Use a cleaner that’s safe for pavers.
  • Repair Damage Promptly: Fix any cracked or displaced pavers immediately to prevent further issues. Replace damaged pavers to maintain the surface.
  • Inspect Drainage: Ensure proper drainage to avoid water pooling, which can cause erosion and paver displacement.
  • Avoid Heavy Loads: Know the weight limits for your pavers and avoid driving or placing heavy objects on them whenever possible. 
  • Seasonal Inspections: Check your pavers for wear or damage at the start and end of each season, and address any issues promptly.

Trust Betz Works to Keep Your Pavers Looking Beautiful!

Your paved surfaces are an investment, and you want to keep them looking as good as possible for as long as possible.

That’s where Betz Works comes in.

Our team offers various sealing services for new and existing paved surfaces in Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Santa Clara Counties in California 

Contact us today to learn more about our team or how we can help you.

FAQ

Why Should I Seal My Pavers?

Sealing your pavers is crucial for making them look good and perform well.

A good sealant protects the pavers from fading and discoloration. 

It also strengthens them by creating a shield that protects the pavers from water and other elements that cause erosion and cracks. 

Additionally, sealing can stop weeds from growing and keep insects away by stabilizing the sand joints, making your outdoor area look cleaner and nicer. 

All told, sealing your pavers extends their lifespan and boosts the overall look and value of your space.

How Often Should Pavers Be Sealed?

How often you should seal your pavers depends on factors like the type of pavers, the climate where you live, and the level of wear and tear your pavers experience.

We recommend sealing your pavers every 1-3 years. 

If your pavers are in a high-traffic area or exposed to harsh weather, you may need to seal them more often. 

Should I Seal My Driveway? 

Yes, we highly recommend sealing your driveway.

A good sealant will protect the driveway surface from stains, water damage, and UV rays. 

Sealing also makes your driveway easier to clean, extends its lifespan, and makes it look brand-new again.

For more information on sealing your driveway, check out our blog