The most important reason to seal your pavers after they have been newly installed is to protect them, preserve their color, and prevent the surface from deteriorating. It is best to wait at least 24-48 hours after installation before sealing the pavers, as this will give them time to settle and ensure they are completely dry. Most manufacturers suggest waiting 30 days after the date of manufacture before sealing, as this allows any efflorescence to run out on its own through the hydration and drying process. Sealing too soon can trap the efflorescence inside each individual brick paver, resulting in a white mist on the pavers. Areas with high traffic, such as entrances and outdoor facilities, should be sealed every one to two years, while pavers in areas with low traffic can go three to five years without being sealed again.
It is important to wait until the pavers are dry before sealing them, as sealing when wet will cause the sealant to build up and even run down the pavers. If you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow, it is best to wait even longer before sealing. In states with hot climates, such as Florida, it is best to wait for the pavers to heat up during the morning and afternoon and for the moisture to evaporate before sealing them. This will prevent any efflorescence from evaporating into the air.
In northern states, it may be necessary to wait up to three months before sealing. When sealing your pavers, it is best to do so when the temperature is between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit for the best results. If it has recently rained or if rain is forecasted in the near future, it is best to wait until it has passed before sealing. It is also better to apply several thin coats of sealant than to cover the pavers with a thick layer, as this can make them slippery.
Different types of pavers may require different types of sealers; for example, travertine pavers are much more porous than granite or concrete pavers.
