The Top 6 Pros and Cons Of Sealing Driveway Pavers

The Pros and Cons Of Sealing Paver Driveways

The decision to seal your driveway pavers can be a difficult one. On the one hand, it offers many benefits, such as enhanced beauty and improved durability. On the other hand, there are some drawbacks associated with it, such as slippery surfaces in wet conditions and some paver manufacturers warning that if a homeowner seals their pavers, the manufacturer’s warranty is void. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of sealing pavers and provide tips on selecting the right sealant for your project.

The Pros of Sealing Pavers

Sealing pavers can be an excellent way to enhance your outdoor space. The beauty of pavers can be greatly enhanced with sealant, as it helps to bring out the natural colors and vibrancy of the material itself. In addition, sealing your pavers also makes them more resistant to staining, reducing the amount of time you need to spend on maintenance. By sealing your pavers, you can add a level of visual appeal that will be sure to impress your family and guests alike!

Here are some of the key benefits you can enjoy when sealing your pavers:

Durability

Sealing your pavers helps to protect them from the damaging effects of weather and other environmental elements. This can greatly improve their longevity and keep them looking new for years to come.

Color Enhancement

The sealant helps to bring out the color in your pavers, making them look more vibrant and aesthetically pleasing.

Reduced Maintenance

Sealing your pavers also makes it easier to clean and maintain them over time. Debris will be more easily removed without having to scrub or use harsh chemicals that may damage the integrity of the material itself.

The Cons of Sealing Pavers

Now that we’ve covered the advantages of sealing driveway pavers, there are some potential drawbacks associated with sealing pavers that homeowners need to consider before sealing their driveway pavers.

Slippery Surfaces in Wet Conditions

The main concern with sealing paver driveways is that it can make them more slippery when wet. This is particularly concerning for those who have children or other family members prone to slipping on wet surfaces. One way to mitigate this risk is by adding a granular additive such as sand before applying the sealant, which can provide greater traction and reduce slipping danger in wet conditions. While adding sand certainly can minimize slipperiness, it’s not a surefire way to help avoid the pavers being slippery.

Voided Warranties

Another disadvantage of sealing pavers is that some concrete and brick paver manufacturers may void their warranty if their products are sealed. Homeowners need to check if any manufacturer warranties apply before buying sealant for their driveway project; otherwise, they will lose out on any coverage these warranties provide in case something goes wrong with their pavers down the line.

Natural Stone Pavers

Natural stone pavers are beautiful and durable, but they can also be susceptible to damage from sealing. Sealing natural stone pavers with a sealant can cause them to become brittle over time, which can lead to cracking and other issues. This is because the sealant may impede water vapor from exiting the stone material, causing it to expand in size and create excess pressure on its surface. This issue is particularly noticeable with softer types of natural stones such as sandstone and limestone. Homeowners should consider these potential problems before deciding whether or not to seal their natural stone pavers.

Tips for Choosing a Sealant

Homeowners looking to seal their pavers must be careful when selecting a sealant. It’s important to choose one that will not only provide the desired results but also won’t cause any long-term damage or other issues. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect sealant for your project:

Check Manufacturer’s Recommendations

When sealing pavers, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for sealants. Some sealants may be too harsh for certain materials and can cause damage over time. Generally, it is best to stick with sealants recommended by the manufacturer of the paver product for optimal results and long-term protection of your pavers.

Look for Environmentally Friendly Options

Another thing to consider when choosing a sealant is its environmental impact. Many traditional products contain harsh chemicals and solvents that can be damaging to the environment. However, there are now many eco-friendly sealants on the market that offer excellent protection and reliable performance while still being safer for the environment. These options are worth considering if you’re looking to reduce your project’s carbon footprint.

Selecting an appropriate sealant can make all the difference in preserving and protecting your pavers over time.

Make sure you do your research before purchasing a sealant product so you can choose one that offers both superior performance and minimal environmental impact.

Conclusion

Overall, taking the time to select an appropriate sealant for your paver surface is essential for ensuring long-term performance and protection. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations and opting for eco-friendly solutions can help you achieve optimal results with minimal environmental impact. And, if you need help finding a qualified professional with experience in paver driveway maintenance and sealing, then click here to find a pre-screened and background-checked pro ready to lend their expertise and take on all of your paver driveway needs.