The advantages of sealing pavers are numerous, from enhancing the appearance to increasing durability and protection. Applying a sealant can help protect porous materials from staining and extend the life of the material. Not only will it maintain the beauty of the paving stone, but it will also improve its look by providing a glossy finish and bringing out the tone of the paving stone. It is possible to remove stains and turn a dirty and worn patio into something very respectable and that you're happy with. So, if you're wondering whether you should seal your patio, the answer is yes; it will save money and improve the appearance of your outdoor space.
Patios should be sealed about one year after installation. The reason for waiting one year after installation before applying the sealant is to allow enough time for any residual efflorescence to evaporate and allow the tiles to deteriorate. If you use a water-based sealer, you'll need to reapply it every 4 to 5 years after the first time. If you use a solvent-based acrylic sealant, you should reapply it every 3 years. Any sealant will make pavers resistant to stains caused by spilled material, oil, dirt, etc.
Sealed pavers also resist UV rays, which can help pavers retain their natural color for longer, although most of today's pavers are manufactured to withstand UV rays. The sealants are available in different styles, from matte to semi-gloss and high-gloss, depending on the customer's taste. Many people prefer bright pavers, which can give pavers a “wet” look, making the natural color of the pavers appear more vibrant. Usually, the darker the paving stone, the more pronounced the color will be after applying a glossy sealant. Stabilizing joint sealants have the added benefit of preventing weeds from growing between the joints of pavers.
Because it penetrates and hardens the sand in the joints, it also makes the sand resist the movement of rain, wind and insects. In addition to keeping your outdoor environment in perfect condition, sealing your pavers has four technical benefits. Sealing can also protect pavers from anything foreign that might fall on them, such as stains caused by oil, leaves or spills. Paving stone sealant is an excellent tool for keeping driveways, patios, walkways and paving stone pool decks in perfect condition, but it's not always necessary. Although not essential, pavers that are not sealed often cause weeds to grow in crevices, lose color over time and can even move due to the lack of sand for the joints. So unless you love hard grafting and elbow grease, that's just one of the maintenance aspects you can relax on when sealing pavers.
By adding joint stabilizing sealants to pavers, the joint sand between the pavers will harden, helping to keep them firm. Choosing to seal pavers not only keeps their color intact but can also increase their vibrancy. Sealing is not necessary but sealing patios has many benefits and only a few drawbacks: sealing patio stones.Sealed pavers should be re-sealed every 3 to 5 years if using a water-based sealer and 2 to 3 years if using an acrylic sealer. Sealing creates an invisible layer on top of the pavers that repels water, oil and anything else you might accidentally drop as long as you wash it as soon as you know it. Most paving stone manufacturers will tell you that you don't need to seal your pavers; however, it's highly recommended. If your sealer is breathable, you don't have to wait at all and you can seal your paver immediately after installation.
