I understand how important it is to have properly maintained patios and driveways. Paver Sealer is a maintenance tool that allows you to protect your pavers from various natural factors like the sun’s harmful UV rays, rain, or ice.
Sealing your pavers prevents the growth of unwanted weeds and moss that often grow out on unsealed pavers.
It will also help you to maintain the investment you have made in building your house. There are many benefits of sealed pavers. One of them is that they are easy to clean.
You have to be sure that your surface will retain its beauty and resiliency for many years to come. So to protect the pavers of your pool, patio, or driveway, it’s best to fill them before any damage.
For this exact purpose, you will be in dire need of a sealer. These products seal themselves to the stonework with strong chemical bonds and thus provide the required protection.
Many sealants and paver sealers are available in the market. I know that picking the right product can be confusing. This article will cut your research time and help you find the best paver sealers and choose the one that suits your budget.
- Best for Wet Look: Foundation Armor AR500
- Best for Decorative Surfaces: Black Diamond Stoneworks Wet Look Stone Sealer
- Best for Money Value: EnduraSeal 100% Acrylic Solvent Sealer
- Best for Pools: DOMINATOR LG+ Wet Look Low Gloss Paver Sealer
- Best for Bricks and Masonry: KILZ L390201 Liquid Masonry Sealer
- Best for Roadways: Foundation Armor SX5000
- Best for Driveways: Foundation Armor SX5000 WB
Your Guide to the Best Paver Sealer
A Paver Sealer is a fluid substance that is mainly used to protect the brick concrete surfaces from staining, corrosion, or damage. Paver stone sealers are also used to apply on other surfaces such as slate, travertine, limestone, bricks, grout, slate, and many others.
These solvents contain special formulas that prevent the surface of the bricks from turning yellowish. Another advantage associated with the paver sealer is that it can be great at keeping peelings and cracks away from the applied surface. Paver sealers are also resistant to slimy mold and sturdy algae.
You should definitely go through a buyer’s guide before deciding to buy an enhancer. All the enhancers have pros and cons, and each has its unique set of features. By reading the guide, you will get an idea about the type of product that will be most suitable for you.
Know Your Paving Type
The first thing I am going to look at is the importance of knowing your paving material type. Paver sealer comes in different varieties and formulations that are designed or produced for a particular type of paving material. Let’s consider a poured concrete for instance. Poured concrete is one of the most common styles of paving especially for workshops or garages.
Since pavers are designed for mostly workshops, patios, or garages, it is very common for the surface or the floor to be exposed to various types of staining such as engine oil spillage. This means you will want to go with sealers which are made exceptionally for concrete to prevent or repel stains from the surface.
If you do not know which material your paving stones or concretes are, consider asking a licensed professional to cross-check the type of materials that were used in the first place. Now let’s look into the different types of paving materials you would come across.
What are They Made of?
Paving stones can be made of a number of different materials that can be found anywhere. According to your personal needs, you can choose the material which is most suitable for you considering the appearance and level of maintenance. There are two main categories in which paver stones fall under – manufacturer and natural stones. Most of the types of paver stones fall in both categories.
Concrete – This is the most common type of material used in producing paver stones. They are mostly manufactured in factories and they are made to be durable resisting any type of climate or weather changes.
Rubber – Made to be a greener alternative, most paver stones are now made of rubber. It is mostly gotten from tires which makes recycling easier. They are not really popular but they hold countless benefits.
Brick – Brick is the second most used material after concrete. They act as another option when it comes to making paver stones. Apart from being aesthetically appealing, brick packs so much durability and versatility.
Limestone – Normally available in three colors, limestone is another alternative material used in the production of paver stones. It is perfect for warm regions and this material can bring a lively appearance to a shady area.
Gravel – The gravel as a material used in paver stone gives off a soft amazing appearance. Gravels are dissolved stones in the form of pallets that can be used for various purposes. I recommend this material be used only in places having rigid edges.
Tile – This is one of the costliest types of paver stones which if you want to install, you have to be ready for it. Maintenance and sealing can cost more for this material than other materials. However, tiles are perfect for warm climates.
1. Foundation Armor AR350
- Sq. Ft. per Gallon: 175-225
- Based on: Solvent
- Finish: Low Gloss
- Wet Look: Yes
Key Features and My Experience
The Armor AR350 is a non-yellowing, solvent-based acrylic sealer. It is a breathable sealant that will darken concrete pavers, giving them a wet look that most of us prefer.
These sealers are made from non-recycled resin. It makes them stand out from other paver sealers.
The Armor AR350 will ensure that you get a proper, polished, and wet look after the finishing. It gives a glossy finishing touch to our pavers.
The sealer is resistant to water, reliably easy to use, and rightly adheres to the pavers. It has self-priming factors and can be easily applied to unseal paver surfaces, concrete, or other surfaces that might previously have been sealed with any solvent-based acrylic.
I know how surface abrasions can be such a pain to prevent. Maintaining pavers can seem like a difficult task. However, Armor AR350 makes the job easy for all of us. It is UV resistant, breathable, and has a low VOC.
The sealer can be easily applied to the pavers using a roller or a sprayer. The sprayer offers resistance to rain and ice, and UV rays. It is also resistant to a few chemicals, stains, and salt damage.
Some people might complain that they do not get a good shiny finish, while others are satisfied with the sealer’s wet look. This is not the sealer’s problem. A dense and smooth paver surface will give you a glossy finish. However, a more textured or rough surface made of materials like sandstone will provide you with a light sheen.
For best results, I would suggest that you apply thick coatings of the sealer. Using a thin layer of the sealer might cause deterioration of the paver and the sealer in the long run.
The gloss and shine will entirely depend on the age and type of the surface you use it on. It will also depend on the condition, porosity of the surface, and application method.
The Armor AR350 Solvent-based Acrylic Wet Look Concrete Sealer is a low-maintenance sealer. If you apply the sealer correctly, then it will last for around 2-5 years. You can recoat the pavers or the surfaces to enhance it every few years.
The sealer provides a low sheen and a durable gloss. It also provides really good adhesion to various concrete surfaces and pavers.
My Overall Impression
I am fairly impressed by the performance of the Armor AR350. The sealer brings about a natural coloring to the pavers or any concrete, giving them a soft, transparent finish.
I suggest using the sealer on aggregate concrete, poured, stamped concrete, and paver surfaces. It is best to clean the surfaces and free them from all contaminants before applying sealers.
Many have asked if the sealer will make the surface slippery. Well, yes, it does. It is because the sealer prevents the absorption of water into the gaps and the surfaces. You can use non-slip additives to prevent this problem.
I believe that the Armor AR350 is right for you if you are looking for a glossy, wet finish. However, keep in mind that if your patio or driveway and walkway are made of rough-textured materials, then it might not give you your desired results.
- Easy to use and apply
- Resistant to water, UV rays, and ice
- Resistant to few chemicals and stains
- Provides value for money
- Gives a glossy, wet look
- Made-up of non-recycled resins
- Sets up very quick
- Smears paint
2. Black Diamond Stoneworks Wet Look Stone Sealer
- Sq. Ft. per Gallon: 500
- Based on: Water
- Finish: Gloss
- Wet Look: Yes
Key Features and My Experience
The Black Diamond Stoneworks Wet Look Natural Stone Sealer is a gloss sealer. This paver sealer can be widely used on aggregate, colored, and stamped surfaces. You can also use them on decorative surfaces.
The sealer is very easy to use. All you have to do is spray the sealer on the desired surface. You can also opt to brush or roll the sealer on bricks, masonry, driveways, patios, or garage floors.
The sealer will not darken your slates so that you can use it on surfaces made of slates as well.
The sealer comprises a water-based sealer and has low VOC. The product promises a glossy finish, but the gloss doesn’t last very long. However, the sealer provides protection from water and sand for a long period.
The sealer also provides the resistance to UV rays and chemicals and stains that it promises to its customers.
If you have trouble cleaning up the pavers of your patio, this sealer is the right fit for you.
If you are using the sealer on outdoor surfaces and pavers, you must also consider the weather outside while applying the sealer. Ensure that the temperature is somewhere between 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the application and 24 hours after that. This will give you good results. A moderate climate will also allow the sealer to settle well and protect the pavers for a long time.
One can use the Black Diamond Stoneworks sealer for protection as well as for beautification. It provides resistance from UV rays, water, and some chemicals. It has water cleanup properties that make it easy to use.
The sealer is non-yellowing, clear, and also very durable.
Check out other products from Black Diamond Stoneworks: Color Enhancer Sealer for All-Natural Stone and Pavers
My Overall Impression
The Black Diamond Stoneworks sealer protects the pavers even amidst harsh weather conditions.
The description on the sealer already mentions this in their product description, but I would still like to point out that you must not use the product on pavers or surfaces made of Granite or Marble.
Also, be sure not to use the sealer on tiles or polished stones. I believe the sealer will best serve its purpose if you use it to seal decorative surfaces.
Remember that it might initially have a strong purple color when applying the sealer to any pavers or surfaces. Do not panic at this because when the sealer eventually dries, the color will become clear.
I would also suggest applying a second coat over the surfaces to get that wet and shiny finish for the best results.
- Provides a stylish and shiny result
- Resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and water
- Easy to maintain
- Does not darken surfaces
- Harmful to granite and marble surfaces
- It doesn’t last long
3. EnduraSeal 100% Acrylic Solvent Sealer
- Sq. Ft. per Gallon: 150-300
- Based on: Solvent
- Finish: Semi Gloss
- Wet Look: Yes
Key Features and My Experience
As the name suggests, the EnduraSeal 100% Acrylic Concrete Sealer and Solvent Base is 100% acrylic. The sealer provides very high performance and has very little odor.
The EnduraSeal Acrylic sealer gives a semi-gloss, wet look, so if you are looking for that perfect shiny and glossy finish, this is probably not the right fit for you.
Do you easily get irritated by the odor of most of the paver sealers available out there? If yes, then EnduraSeal Acrylic Sealer is the right sealer for you.
It is highly durable and is much more affordable than all the epoxy and Urethane sealers.
The EnduraSeal sealer is non-yellowing.
Many of the solvent-based sealers in the market have very strong odors; This is not the case with EnduraSeal Acrylic Sealers.
The Sealer serves its purpose of protecting and beautifying concrete surfaces, leaving them with a semi-gloss look.
You can use it on stones, terrazzo, exposed aggregate, and stamped, colored, and stained concrete surfaces.
The solvent-based sealer is 100% acrylic, and I was amazed to find out that just one gallon of the sealer can cover up at least 150-300 square feet of concrete surfaces or pavers. It is thus evident to me that the product offers value for the money that we pay them.
This is a solvent-based sealer, and the type of solvent you use can also play a major factor. You can use the EnduraSeal Acrylic Solvent-based sealer for both indoor and outdoor purposes.
This solvent-based sealer will provide you with more stabilized and sealed pavers. It is resistant to water and prevents the water from penetrating through the pavers into the grounds. As the sealer has non-yellowing factors, it does not let the surfaces turn yellow after its application.
This solvent-based sealer will make your stamped concrete pop and stand out from others.
My Overall Impression
I would personally recommend two coatings of the sealer for long-lasting durability and a desirable result.
You must understand that your method of application means everything. Follow the instructions properly for applying the sealer. If you don’t follow the instructions or go by the rules, you will waste your money and a lot of time. If you are using the sealer on stamped concrete with many nooks and crannies, you must be even more careful while applying the sealer.
Many people might find it difficult to use compared to water-based sealers. I would say that once you get a knack for it, you will be able to apply it correctly.
I would suggest this 100%Acrylic sealer for indoor purposes. The sealer does not guarantee resistance against heat, snow, and rain. I advise you to use it inside your home or at places that are not constantly exposed to the UV rays of the sun and other harsh conditions.
Overall, the product has high durability, has good sheerness, and gives a semi-gloss look.
- Less odor
- 100% Acrylic
- Non-Yellowing
- Long-lasting
- Solvent-based (makes it hard to use)
- Very Sticky
4. DOMINATOR LG+ Wet Look Low Gloss Paver Sealer
- Sq. Ft. per Gallon: 250-400
- Based on: Water
- Finish: Low Gloss
- Wet Look: Yes
Key Features and My Experience
Would it not be amazing to have fine furnished and clean-looking patios, driveways, walkways, and pools?
The Dominator LG+ will help you do just that. It will restore the concrete surfaces’ beauty at your home. The sealer will help you to fix them by providing an ultimate color enhancement.
It will give your pavers and concrete surfaces a wet look with low gloss. This product is long-lasting, and the seal will remain intact for years.
The Dominator LG+ ensures protection from UV rays. The sealer will also protect the pavers from any oil stains in the future.
You can use the sealer on decorative concrete and also on concrete pavers. However, you must not use it for stone or clay surfaces.
This sealer is solvent-free, which sets it apart from other paver sealers.
If you want a sealer that would dry real quick, I would suggest the Dominator LG+. The product dries up quickly and makes up the whole process fast and easy. If you cannot spare all that time on sealing your pavers, this sealer is the right fit.
It is easy to use and looks beautiful after it dries up.
The sealer is quite sticky and hard, and that is why I would suggest that you use gloves when you use the sealer on any paver or concrete surfaces.
The sealer provides a high coverage rate. You can cover up at least 250-400 square feet of area with just a gallon of this sealer. These numbers are applicable only for a single coating of the sealer.
It is a breathable sealer. The sealer doesn’t have any foul odors and has low VOCs. This makes it easy and pleasant for the user to apply the sealer of pavers.
The Dominator LG+/ has a low slip potential. The sealer also provides stabilization to the joints.
My Overall Impression
This is the ultimate product that you can gift to yourself. The sealer will turn your dull pavers into something more interesting and fun.
The Dominator LG+ will restore any faded colors and eventually give a low sheen that will improve the durability of your pavers. It also works the same for any decorative concrete.
I would also advise you to put on a double coating after applying the first coating. If the sealer is not applied properly, then dirt might get collected on sand lines after rain. However, you can easily wash the dirt using a garden hose.
Also, it is best to use a brush or a roller to apply the sealer. Since the sealer is thick and hard, it might not be effective to use a sprayer to apply it.
- Breathable
- No foul odors
- High coverage rate
- Dries very quickly
- Resistant to water and UV rays
- It is sticky
- Low density
5. KILZ L390201 Liquid Masonry Sealer
- Sq. Ft. per Gallon: 200-450
- Based on: Acrylic
- Finish: High Gloss
- Wet Look: Yes
Key Features and My Experience
We all want masonry that is spotless and simply perfect. The sole purpose of a masonry sealer is to protect and beautify the brick, the concrete, and other surfaces of the masonry. The KILZ L390201 serves this purpose well.
The sealer also helps masonry surfaces maintain and preserve the color and the details of the masonry by preventing any fading or yellowing.
The KILZ L390201 Interior/Exterior sealer non-yellowing, high solid sealer. It has an acrylic-based formula that helps enhance the tiles or cement surfaces. You can also use the sealer on uncoated stones or stucco surfaces.
The sealer will eventually give you a glossy, wet look.
You can use the KILZ sealer for both indoor and outdoor purposes. The sealer works well on brick, tile, aggregate, stucco, and concrete. However, it’s best not to use it in places that have high moisture quantities. Avoid using the sealer in areas like pools and decks.
The KILZ sealer is a great one that you can use on concrete surfaces and also on masonries. The sealer adds a sheen to the concrete surfaces.
The sealer does not give a very glossy look; however, it provides a very distinct sheen.
You can also use the sealer to add a brisk layer on top of the concrete. But, keep in mind that the sealer must not be used as a lacquer.
It then gives a wet look to the concrete or the masonry that you use it on.
The KILZ sealer does not take a lot of time to dry up and hence saves you time. It is suggested to apply at least two coats of the sealer for a long-lasting effect.
The sealer covers around 250-400 square feet per gallon. It gives excellent sheerness and is also fairly easy to apply on the pavers or masonries.
For the best results, make sure that the masonry is clean, free from any oil, chalk, grease, wax, mold, peeling paint, and rust.
My Overall Impression
One of the best things about this is that it does not get very slippery even when it is wet. This makes the KILZ sealer stand out from many other sealers. The sealer can also hold up heavy foot traffic areas.
I suggest using a plastic sprayer to apply the sealer instead of using a paintbrush or a sponge. The sprayer will provide an even layout of the sealer.
When you apply the sealer, it will look a little milky and whitish. Do not worry about this, as the white color usually fades away, and the sealer eventually becomes clear as it dries up. It is important that you apply the sealer carefully to avoid this whitish residue.
The KILZ sealer is quite affordable in comparison to other sealers in the market. The sealer will help you seal pavers and concrete at a reasonable price.
You can use a spray wax cleaner to apply the sealer for a glossy shine.
- Non-yellowing
- Acrylic-based formula
- UV-resistant
- Dries within 24 hours
- It cannot be used in high moisture areas
- Leaves behind an off-white color
6. Foundation Armor SX5000
- Sq. Ft. per Gallon: 200-225
- Based on: Solvent
- Finish: Won’t Change Look
- Wet Look: No
Key Features and My Experience
The SX5000 Solvent-Based Paver Sealer is a low VOC, breathable and high solids Silane Siloxane sealer.
This is a multi-purpose sealer. The sealer is composed of active ingredients.
If you apply a double coating of the sealer on your desired surface or pavers, it might last for 4-6 years. Thus, it is very long-lasting and also durable.
The sealer is easy to use, and you can apply it using a pump sprayer. That would work just fine.
You can use the SX5000 Sealer seal paver, and you can also use it for external and internal purposes. You can use it on slate, flagstone, concrete, and bricks.
This product has been approved by the Department of Transportation in various US states as a penetrating concrete sealer. Thus one can use the sealer on bridge decks and roadways to prevent and control the damage that is often caused due to the absorption of water into these roadways and decks.
The sealer gives a natural look after drying, and it does not leave a very shiny or glossy finish. However, it provides an unsealed look and a natural feel on the surfaces on which it is used.
Ensure that you follow the instructions that come with the product for the best results. Most of the time, sealers do not long last because they are not applied well. Thus, it is crucial to spend that extra time reading the applications and using them well for a more durable and desired result.
Also, like most of the sealers, the SX5000 has a very strong odor, and it is best to use a mask or something else to cover your face while applying the sealer.
You can safely use the SX5000 as it does not make the concrete surfaces and pavers slippery.
The sealer is resistant to water and provides good sheerness to the pavers and the concrete surfaces.
My Overall Impression
As per my observation, it has very high penetrating capabilities. The Silane-Siloxane sealer penetrates deep into the substrate. It then reacts with the substrate to form hydrophobic barriers in the pores. These barriers help prevent water absorption into the walkways, roadways, and driveways.
I would highly suggest that you apply the sealer after the sun’s down. Preferably during an early or late evening. This is because the sun’s harsh rays might prevent the sealer from proper absorption, and it might not settle well.
Also, it is best not to use the sealer in moist places like on pools and decks.
I also would like to point out that the product contains acetone. So might attack rubber sprayers. If you want to use the sprayer over a large area, I would advise you to invest in an acetone-proof sprayer. You can use a paintbrush or a roller to avoid this hassle.
- Breathable
- Low VOC
- Non-yellowing
- UV resistant
- High Water absorption
- Bad, strong odor
- Can corrode rubber or plastic materials
7. Foundation Armor SX5000 WB
- Sq. Ft. per Gallon: 200-225
- Based on: Water
- Finish: Won’t Change Look
- Wet Look: No
Key Features and My Experience
The SX5000 WB sealer is a water-based sealer. It is a low VOC, high solids silane-siloxane, breathable sealer. Much like the SX5000 solvent-based sealer that we looked at in the previous category.
You can use the water-based SX5000 sealer on vertical and horizontal concrete on pavers, flagstones, brick, and slate.
The Solvent-based and Water-based SX5000 sealers have almost identical features and qualities.
The Department of Transportation in many US states has approved the sealer and can thus seal concrete surfaces on roadways and bridge decks.
The sealer has protective qualities and helps protect and prevent damage caused to concrete surfaces due to exposure to water and sun.
The WB SX5000 is composed of many active ingredients, and It provides a natural look on the surfaces. It protects the surfaces by preventing the absorption of water into the pavers.
The sealer is fairly easy to use; you can simply use a pump sprayer to spray the sealer in your desired area.
The WB SX5000 sealer gives a natural finish. If you prefer protection more than a shiny and glossy finish, this is the right fit for you.
This is a ready-to-use sealer. You do not have to go through the hassle of picking a solvent and mixing them. You can take the sealer out of the bottles, pour it into the sprayer pump, or directly apply it using a brush or a roller.
It is a breathable sealer and will let the substrate breathe easily. Also, it does not mess up with the color of the substrate. Instead, it leaves behind a visible thin surface film.
Check out other products from Foundation Armor: AR500 Solvent Based Acrylic High Gloss Wet Look Sealer
My Overall Impression
The Foundation Armor SX5000 WB sealer is a UV-resistant and water-resistant sealer. The sealer works below the surface by preventing the trapping of water and moisture. It forms a hydrophobic trap that helps to avoid water absorption.
The live performance of both the solvent and water-based SX5000 sealers is similar. The only difference between the two sealers is that one is water-based, and the other is solvent-based. Other than that, almost all their properties are similar.
If you want to avoid the strong fumes of the solvent-based SX5000 sealer, then I would suggest you opt for the Water-based one.
- UV resistant
- Non-yellowing
- Long-Lasting
- High Water Absorption
- Doesn’t dry quickly
Comparison Table
| PRODUCT | SQ FT PER GALLON | BASED ON | FINISH | WET LOOK |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation Armor AR350 | 175-225 | Solvent | Low Gloss | Yes |
| Black Diamond Stoneworks Wet Look Stone Sealer | 500 | Water | Gloss | Yes |
| EnduraSeal 100% Acrylic Solvent Sealer | 150-300 | Solvent | Semi Gloss | Yes |
| DOMINATOR LG+ Wet Look Low Gloss Paver Sealer | 250-400 | Water | Low Gloss | Yes |
| KILZ L390201 Liquid Masonry Sealer | 200-450 | Acrylic | High Gloss | Yes |
| Foundation Armor SX5000 | 200-225 | Solvent | Won't Change Look | No |
| Foundation Armor SX5000 WB | 200-225 | Water | Won't Change Look | No |
Types of Paver Sealers
Solvent-Based Paver Sealer
Consisting of over 40% active material, the solvent-based paver sealer creates a continuous firm that protects the pavers from stains and UV light. This paver sealer reduces pitting and cracking as well as the durability of the pacer stones.
- They are perfect for outdoor applications.
- They perform better than water-based sealers when it comes to color enhancement.
- They give the surface a wet dark look which appears nice.
- They are easy to reapply and repost unlike water-based ones that need to be sanded before reapplication.
- They mostly have a foul odor.
Water-Based Paver Sealer
Water-based paver sealers are mostly used for one thing – to restore and highlight the color of the paver stones. They won’t change the color of your stones and this type of sealers does not give a glossy or wet finish. It is also a good waterproof product.
- They don’t release harmful odor into the atmosphere.
- They are safer to work with.
- It is cheap compared to most types of sealers.
- It is more durable and users won’t experience the trouble of bubbling/roller marks.
- They don’t give off the darkening effect most users may want.
- It cannot survive in low temperatures and they often freeze when temperatures go below 50 degrees.
Acrylics Paver Sealer
Acrylics paver sealer is also a good waterproof product. It forms a thin-like coating that helps prevent the absorption of water. When applied, there is no chemical reaction between the surface and the sealer, therefore, it tends to wear off very fast. This type of sealer is very good for poolsides due to its waterproof features.
- They are the most preferred type of sealers.
- They don’t cost much compared to other types of sealants.
- Their application is very quick and simple.
- They can be applied immediately after you finish building your concrete.
- They have remarkable UV-resistant properties.
- They act well against moisture, chemical spill, and de-icing salt.
- It doesn’t allow anything to slip through the cracks.
- They can be used in both indoor and outdoor activities.
- It takes a shorter time for this type of sealer to dry.
- They help in color enhancement regardless of the type of concrete.
- They are not very durable, the liquid is thin meaning it would wear away faster.
- You need to constantly recapture this sealer from time to time.
- With time, they might turn yellow unless you use a sealer with anti-yellowing properties.
Breathable Paver Sealers
The breathable paver sealer is not just a coating but something much more. It protects the paver stones without altering their appearance. This sealer reacts with the paver stones and therefore penetrates deeply into the surface. Once it is being used, you wouldn’t even notice there is a coating that is being applied.
- They are absorbed into the concrete to prevent debris and moisture from getting into the concrete while also allowing vapor to escape from inside the surface.
- They don’t change the appearance of the concrete but they provide invisible protections while keeping its original look.
- They can be used on raw concrete surfaces.
- It protects against UV rays as well as weather and high temperatures.
- It is preferable for outdoor use in places such as walkways, pavers, and driveways.
- They contain advanced formulae that can protect your driveways from chemicals and moisture.
- It is very durable and it doesn’t give off a glossy film finish.
- This type of sealer is only convenient for outdoor use.
- If this type of cost is exposed to water before drying, it may start to foam or bubble.
Wet Look and Gloss Look Paver Sealers
According to your taste, you can decide to choose the appearance your paver stones take. You can either choose an exterior with an extra shine or just a normal wet look which is very appealing to the eyes.
They tend to darken and make paver stones have a wet look. Wet look paver sealers also add extra durability and strength to your paving stones. The reason is that this sealer is made up of a solvent-based formula that reacts with the surface and enhances its functions.
This type of paver sealer has a high percentage of acrylic which gives it an extremely shiny look. The more the acrylic content, the glossy your paver stones will look so the more solids on this sealer, the better the gloss.
How Much Paver Sealer is Needed?
Getting to know the exact quantity or amount of sealer fluid needed is the hardest part when it comes to the purchasing process. Before you decide on the amount to buy, you should start by calculating the square feet of the total paving area.
When you have gotten the value of the square foot of the area, you need to now focus on the instructions given on the product. On each of the product’s covers, you will see the required area that the package will cover. Another thing you would look out for is that most sealers recommend that pavers be coated at least twice to get the best results. This will increase the amount required to undergo the sealing process twice or three times. To be on the safe side, you should always buy an extra sealer to make sure that you have enough for the project.
What to Look Out for When Choosing a Paver Sealer
Finish
This involves purely cosmetic concern and therefore it will not affect the functional capabilities of the sealer no matter the finish chosen. Now that we have cleared that, most concrete surfaces which require sealing involve a significant investment. This includes effort, money, and time but generally, it means the concrete will have a nice look.
However, there is no “ultimate finish” instead it is a matter of personal taste. if you want a glossy and sleek look, you can go with a high gloss finish. If you want to take it down a notch but you want something that still shines, you might consider going for the semi-gloss finish. Not also forgetting, matte finishes tend to give off a natural look without reflecting light making the color rich and vibrant to the eye.
Non-slip
Your paver sealer acts as quite the enhancer of the surface. It gives a wet and glossy look. But even though it gives a wet look, it is important that the feel is not slippery. Slippery surfaces are a big no-no since they are dangerous and can be responsible for small accidents. Thus, make sure that your paver sealer is a non-slip one.
Cost
Always try to compare paver sealers that have similar features but in the case of getting a paver sealer, you can’t afford to be cheap. The appearance and durability of paver sealers are features that are way too important and you don’t want to purchase a sealer that would wear away in months. Cost plays a very important role and most times, the higher the price of the product, the more you can get from it.
Life Expectancy
No matter how you try to maintain a paver sealer and its exposure condition, the life expectancy may just last a few years. Epoxies and urethanes are known to have the longest-lasting performance before re-application is required. You can also as well get a warranty from manufacturers and companies which will back up their company’s reputation.
Products that are made of acrylic and are water repellent are usually more durable. You can definitely use these products as they will last longer and bring about quite the enhancement to your surfaces. You will not have to reapply them frequently.
Drying Time
If you have a sealing project in which you want it to be completed very quickly, you will need a sealer that can be re-coated in a short period of time and also can be opened for use very quickly after sealing.
Polyurethane and epoxies take longer to dry, a minimum of 24 hours or a day.
Penetration
The deeper the penetration, the better the product is. It will be able to reach the cracks and deeper levels and repair them. Thus, read the paver sealer reviews and make sure that your product is penetrating deep. The more penetration, the better as a sealer it acts.
Substrates
The best paver sealer you go for should also be a good substrate sealer. It should seal very well all the substrates within your surface for the product to be a quality one.
FAQ
Conclusion
You will often find that it takes quite a lot of energy, time, cost as well as scope to construct a walkway with pavers. A lot of investment goes into making it. So it is only normal that you would want to make sure that it is completely protected using the best paver sealer.
Thus, you should read the buying guide carefully before choosing the sealer for your surface. You should remember all the characteristics that a sealer needs to have and then choose accordingly.
I hope this article on the best paver sealer helps you to find the right sealer for you. Some sealers work great in moist places while others don’t. While some paver sealers are good for indoor purposes; some serve well for outdoor surfaces, and others perform well both in indoor and outdoor places. Know your requirement and choose the sealer that checks all the entities on your checklist!
1. Wikipedia
2. wikiHow
3. DoItYourself.com
