A sealer does three useful things on pavers: it helps lock the joint sand in place, it makes stains easier to clean, and it keeps the color from chalking out in the sun. All three depend on putting it on at the right time.
New pavers: wait
Fresh pavers need time to cure and to release the salts that can rise to the surface as a white haze. Sealing over that, or over damp pavers, can trap moisture and leave a cloudy finish that is hard to undo. Let the surface weather and dry out first, and have the pavers looked at before anything goes on.
Older pavers: watch for the signs
- Color looks faded or chalky compared with the joints and edges.
- Water soaks in and darkens the paver instead of beading.
- Joint sand keeps washing out, or weeds and moss are pushing up between stones.
- Oil, rust or leaf stains are sinking in rather than wiping off.
What good prep looks like
- A deep clean to lift embedded dirt, mildew and any old sealer residue.
- Fresh joint sand, compacted in, so the sealer has something solid to bind.
- Complete drying time before the sealer goes on.
- A dry forecast for at least a day, and cooler hours of the day in summer, because hot stone flashes the sealer off too fast and can leave bubbles or streaks.
Natural look or wet look?
Penetrating sealers keep a natural look and are less slippery when wet. Film-forming sealers bring out a richer, glossier color but can be slick on a pool deck or a sloped walk. Pick the finish for how the surface is used, not just how it looks on a sample.
Common questions
When should new pavers be sealed?
What are the signs older pavers are due for sealing?
Natural look or wet look sealer?
Related: Paver & stone sealing, What paver and stone sealing costs in Central Texas
Want it done right the first time? We clean, protect and finish pavers and stone across Central Texas.