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Last Updated on August 10, 2024 by Heenan
Imagine installing beautiful colored pavers along the driveway of your house only to watch the color fade over time. The pavers are exposed to the sun all day, yet seeing all the hard work slowly deteriorate, you can’t stop being disappointed. Thankfully, there is a solution to this.
That is where paver sealers step in. Different paver types have endless benefits. Not only do they seal in the color of your paver, but they also harden the sand in the joints so that the pavers do not sink.
Here is a glimpse of the various kinds of paver sealers and how they can help the pavers around your home.
Main Paver Types
Here are the main types of paver sealers.
#1. Solvent-Based Paver Sealer
The solvent-based paver sealer is a pro at protecting your pavers from deteriorating. It also helps prevent staining to some extent. And it also offers protection from UV rays, meaning that the colors of your pavers are less likely to fade. Moreover, they are all super easy to apply. You have to roll it on the paver.
However, this sealer stands out because it provides the paver with a glossy, wet-looking finish as it darkens the paver. Within one to three hours of application, you are set for the next two to three years, as solvent-based paver sealers are known to be among the most durable paver sealers out there.
On the other hand, you should note that the solvent-based paver sealer is usually a bit higher in VOC than other paver sealers, which can cause health issues.
#2. Water-Based Paver Sealer
For water-based paver sealers, the polymer particles are dispersed in water. As you apply the sealer on the paver, the water will start to evaporate. This allows the polymer particles to move closer together and fuse, providing your paver with a clear and sturdy coating.
While promising protection from deteriorating stains and UV rays and easy application, the finish is different as it provides a matte finish. Moreover, its key feature is that it has a low VOC content. Products containing a high amount of VOC can cause illnesses such as skin problems, irritation to your eyes, nose, and throat, and many more issues.
A water-based paver sealer ensures your safety with its low VOC content, making it an ideal choice for your home. However, remember, while applying the paver sealer, to only use a thin coat so that the paver still has its grip.
#3. Acrylics Paver Sealer
Acrylic pavers come in two main types: water, and solvent-based acrylic sealers. With different bases, what these two types have in common is that they both have acrylic particles suspended in them.
The finish of your paver will depend on the type you choose, which means the possibilities are endless, from a low gloss to a wet look.
The thin layer of the acrylic paver sealer can coat and protect the paver from damage. However, you will need to go back and reapply the paver sealer again after a few years.
Moreover, remember that acrylic paver sealers require you to work with completely dry surfaces, or else the trapped water particles will leave whitish parts in your seal.
#4. Breathable Paver Sealers
The purpose of breathable paver sealers is that instead of creating a film over the top of the paver to protect it, they penetrate the pours of pavers and react to the components of the paver. In turn, the paver becomes denser, which also prevents the absorption of water in the pavers.
Breathable sealers protect the paver from within, whereas the topcoats protect the surface. However, breathable paver sealers do not protect the surface from stains, color deterioration, etc. It can only strengthen the paver itself.
Furthermore, this kind of sealer is used where the protection and strength of the paver are a priority, such as in driveways.
There are different types of sealers, such as silane-siloxane sealer and silicate sealer.
#5. Wet Look and Gloss Paver Sealers
Have you ever walked into a patio and noticed how glossy and beautiful the paver looks, as if it had just been washed from light rainfall?
Some paver sealers use high-quality resin in their formula, which coats the paver in your home, leaving a high gloss.
However, the benefits are not purely for the aesthetics of the paver. It is durable and can also protect pavers from weather damage.
Related Reading: Paving Types Variation Explained By Real User.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here we have the most commonly asked queries regarding the types of paver sealers:
Question #1. How long does the wet-look seal last?
Answer: Depending on the brand, the durability of your seal will vary. However, generally, it can last anywhere from two to five years.
Before buying your paver sealer, be sure to do enough research and invest in quality to get the most out of it.
Question #2. What are the benefits of sealing pavers?
Answer: The advantages of paver sealers are endless. They contribute to both the structure of the paver and also the visuals of it.
Pavers prevent grass and weeds from growing in between cracks. They discourage the growth of moss as well. As they prevent staining, you will notice how much easier it is to clean up messes. They not only prevent wear and tear but also prevent the pavers from sinking and loosening while keeping their color intact.
Moreover, they are the best way to resist damage from weather conditions and protect it from salt damage. Additionally, depending on the type of sealer you choose, they can also upgrade the structural integrity of the paver itself.
Question #3. How long does siloxane sealer last?
Answer: Siloxane sealer is more durable than sealers that act as topcoats. Depending on the brand and quality, siloxane sealers are supposed to last anywhere from seven to ten years.
Question #4. Should you seal sandstone paving?
Answer: Sealing sandstone paving is essential because, while many argue it is unnecessary, it adds another layer of protection for the sandstone. As previously mentioned, the sandstone will become stain-resistant with the sealer, and the natural colors will also be protected.
Final Verdict
Adding a seal to your paver is an excellent step in protecting the paver’s structure and aesthetics. Sealing the paver is a proactive step before damage can reach the paver, conserving its beauty for years to come.
Now that you know about the different paver types and their benefits, it’s time to pick the perfect seal for your next paver project.
Related Resources:
#1. Brick Sealers Honest and Unbiased Guide.
#2. Stamped Concrete Sealers Honest and Unbiased Guide.
#3. Wet Look Paver Sealers Honest and Unbiased Guide.
#4. Natural Look Paver Sealers Honest and Unbiased Guide.
#5. Concrete Driveway Sealers Honest and Unbiased Guide.
#6. Concrete Driveway Sealing Guide.
