Nicolock Paving Stones patio pavers are some of the most durable paving stones out there and are commonly used for patios, walkways and driveways. However, a beautiful paving stone installation won’t last long against the elements unless you seal it. Sealing your paving stones protects them against fading, stains, shifting and weed growth, ensuring your paving stones look great for many years to come. Generally speaking, you should add polymeric sand and seal your paving stones six to twelve months after installation. Paver seeing should be done every five years.

When Do You Seal New Pavers?

You should wait 6-12 months after installing pavers before sealing them. Sealant should generally be reapplied every three to five years.

How to Seal Pavers

Sealing paving stones is easier than it sounds. First, you’ll need to choose either a water-based or solvent-based sealant as well as a finish. Some sealants can also enhance the color of the paving stones if that is a concern.

The basic process for sealing paving stones is as follows:

1. Clean the paving stones and remove any stains using the appropriate cleaning products.
2. Fill joints with sealing sand for pavers. You may have to wait 24 hours after putting down sealing paver sand to apply the sealant.
3. Apply one coat of sealant using a sprayer. Work in small sections.
4. Use a foam roller to remove any excess sealer.
5. Let the sealant cure for at least 24 hours before walking on or placing furniture on the surface. Your specific sealant may require a longer cure time, which will be indicated on the package.

How to Fill Paver Joints with Sand

Consider sealing the joints with polymeric sand if you have a considerably worn patio. This fine sand is mixed with a binding agent that hardens and binds to the pavers when activated with water. It’s a great way to strengthen joints and stabilize paving stones.

Here is the basic method for sealing pavers with sand:

• Thoroughly clean the paver surface.
• Roll your bag of sand and pour it onto the paving stones.
• Use a broom to spread the sand and help guide it into the joints.
• Remove any excess sand from the paver surface.
• Dampen the sand using a garden hose set for a fine mist.

Other Considerations

Here are a few rules of thumb for sealing pavers before and after the sealant is applied.

• Take your time. Rushing a project at any stage, from how well you clean the surface to not letting the sealer dry enough, can be disastrous for the final result.
• Clean, clean, clean. Even small amounts of dirt, debris, or mildew can prevent a sealer from sticking – or worse, seal those imperfections to the surface.
• More isn’t always better. Paving stones need to “breathe” so that water vapor can escape. Too much sealer will lock moisture in, potentially causing peeling and a blushed white appearance.
• Maintain your sealer. A little maintenance will help your paver sealer last even longer. Use a leaf blower to remove leaves and debris before they cause stains, and rinse off any dirt sooner rather than later.

Tips

When sealing pavers, be sure to take your time and don’t rush the project at any stage. Wait to do the sealing until good weather is expected and remember that more isn’t always better. Paving stones need to breathe to allow moisture to escape and too much sealant can lock moisture in, causing discoloration. Once polymer paving sand is added and the sealant is applied and cured, you can help it last longer by removing leaves, dirt and debris before they stain the surface.

For more tips on sealing pavers, choosing paving stones or tackling outdoor hardscape projects, visit the Nicolock Paving Stones blog or stop into one of our design centers to chat with an expert.