Have you ever looked at your patio, driveway, or walkway and thought that it could use a bit of a facelift? Or perhaps you’ve just installed new pavers and want to ensure they look pristine for years to come. One of the most effective ways to enhance and protect your pavers is by using a quality paver sealer. But with so many products on the market, how do you choose the best one for your needs? Fret not; that’s where we come in with the best paver sealers that you can trust to do the job right.
Our Top Picks
Our #1 Top Pick: Foundation Armor AR350 Wet Look Sealer
For homeowners and professionals seeking a wet look finish that enhances the color of their pavers, Foundation Armor AR350 Wet Look Sealer is a top-notch choice. It’s a solvent-based acrylic sealer that bonds with the surface, providing a durable, non-yellowing finish. Moreover, it’s easy to apply and can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces. This sealer repels water and other liquids, providing excellent protection against the elements while also resisting abrasion and UV rays. One of the reasons it stands out is its longevity; a single application can last up to 1-3 years on exterior surfaces and even longer indoors.
Pick #2: EnduraSeal 100% Acrylic “Wet Look” Sealer
EnduraSeal 100% Acrylic “Wet Look” Sealer offers a high-performance finish for those who love a glossy appearance. This is a pure acrylic sealer, which means it’s highly durable and forms a thicker, non-yellowing protective layer on your pavers. It’s noted for its ease of application and ability to bring out the colors in the pavers, giving them a rich, wet appearance. It’s suitable for a range of surfaces, including concrete, stamped concrete, and pavers, and is especially useful for those in warmer climates due to its non-blushing formula.
Pick #3: Eagle Natural Seal Penetrating Clear Water-Based Concrete Masonry Water Repellant Sealer
If you want a sealer that protects without altering the natural appearance of your pavers, Eagle Natural Seal is your go-to option. It’s a water-based sealer, making it environmentally friendly and easier to clean up. Despite its gentler formula, it’s a strong penetrating sealer that provides a clear, natural finish while offering robust protection from water, salts, and freeze-thaw damage. It’s UV resistant and doesn’t leave a slippery surface, making it ideal for pool decks and areas that see a lot of foot traffic.
Pick #4: DOMINATOR SG+ High Gloss Paver Sealer
DOMINATOR SG+ is designed to give your pavers a high gloss finish and superior color enhancement. This sealer is solvent-based and contains a proprietary stabilizing polymer that helps it withstand the elements. It’s great for those who do not want to reapply sealer too often as it lasts longer and offers a joint stabilizing function that helps to reduce paver movement and weed growth. One standout feature of DOMINATOR SG+ is its breathability, which ensures that trapped moisture can escape, preventing damage from below the surface.
Pick #5: MasonryDefender Wet Look Patio Paver Sealer
MasonryDefender offers a product specifically designed for those seeking a ‘wet look’ which can enhance the color of the pavers without making them look too shiny. This water-based, eco-friendly paver sealer is easy to apply and maintain, and it won’t harm your lawn or garden if it’s accidentally oversprayed. It provides excellent protection against water intrusion, efflorescence, and the degrading effects of sun exposure. It is particularly well-suited to those looking for a low-VOC option that doesn’t sacrifice performance for environmental considerations.
What to Know Before You Buy
Before you rush out and purchase a paver sealer, it’s essential to arm yourself with some knowledge to make the right choice:
- Type of Sealer: Sealers come in two main types – film-forming and penetrating. Film-forming sealers create a protective layer on top of the surface, while penetrating sealers absorb into the pavers, protecting them from the inside out.
- Finish: Consider the finish you prefer – glossy, wet look, or natural. Glossy and wet look finishes enhance the color of your pavers, while a natural finish provides protection without altering the appearance.
- Base: Sealers are either water-based or solvent-based. Water-based sealers are more environmentally friendly and easier to clean up, whereas solvent-based sealers are more durable and provide a denser protective layer.
- Breathability: A breathable sealer allows moisture trapped within the pavers to escape, preventing damage from freeze-thaw cycles and subsurface moisture.
- UV Protection: Sealers with UV protection prevent the color of your pavers from fading over time due to sun exposure.
- Longevity: Look at the expected lifespan of the sealer. Some options last only a year, while others can protect your pavers for several years before reapplication is needed.
- Ease of Application: Some sealers can be applied with a simple garden sprayer, while others might require specialized equipment. The ease of application is a crucial consideration, especially for DIY projects.
- Environmentally Friendly: If you’re eco-conscious, look for low-VOC, water-based sealers that are less harmful to the environment.
Factors to Consider Before Buying
Investing in a paver sealer is a smart move, but to ensure you choose the best product for your pavers, consider the following factors:
- Surface Compatibility: Check if the sealer is compatible with the type of pavers you have – whether it’s concrete, brick, stone, or another material.
- Weather Conditions: Your local climate can significantly impact the performance of a sealer. High humidity, extreme temperatures, and frequent rain or snow should influence your choice.
- Traffic Levels: For high-traffic areas, opt for a durable, non-slip sealer to maintain both the look and safety of the surface.
- Maintenance Level: Understand the maintenance required for the sealer – some may need more frequent reapplication or specific cleaning solutions to retain their protective qualities.
- Color Enhancement: Decide if you want to change the appearance of your pavers. Some sealers provide a wet look that darkens the color, while others are completely clear.
- Price: While you shouldn’t compromise on quality, consider the cost-per-square-foot coverage of the sealer to ensure it fits within your budget.
- Reviews and Feedback: Check out reviews and feedback from other users. A product that has consistently good reviews is more likely to offer the results you’re seeking.
Why Trust ChooseRight?
Now, you might be wondering why you should trust the recommendations from ChooseRight. Here is why:
At ChooseRight, we meticulously analyze products, scrutinize thousands of reviews, and gather feedback from professionals in the field. We understand that the array of choices can be overwhelming, which is why our goal is to simplify your decision-making process. We invest time and resources into the research process so you don’t have to, ensuring that each product we recommend stands up to our high standards for quality and performance.
Finishing Thoughts
Upgrading and protecting your pavers is essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of your outdoor spaces. A quality paver sealer can not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your paving stones but also provide vital protection against wear and tear. With our detailed reviews, you’ve got all the information you need to choose the best paver sealer to suit your needs. Take into account factors such as the type of finish you desire, the durability needed, ease of application, and environmental considerations. Armed with the right product, your pavers will look fantastic and be well shielded for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a paver sealer?
A paver sealer is a protective coating applied to the surface of paving stones to protect them from the elements, stains, and wear. It helps to enhance their color and maintain their appearance over time.
Why should I seal my pavers?
Sealing your pavers protects them from moisture absorption, staining, fading, and weed growth. It can also stabilize the joint sand, minimizing washout and reducing maintenance needs.
How often should I reseal my pavers?
On average, pavers should be resealed every 3-5 years, but this varies based on the type of sealer used, the level of traffic, and exposure to the elements.
What are the different types of paver sealers?
The two primary types of paver sealers are water-based and solvent-based. Each type comes in various finishes from matte to glossy and may offer different levels of protection and enhancement.
Can I apply paver sealer myself?
Yes, with the proper tools and following the manufacturer’s instructions, DIY enthusiasts can seal their own pavers. However, hiring a professional ensures a more uniform application and can be beneficial for larger or more complex projects.
Can I use paver sealer on any type of paver?
Most paver sealers are versatile and can be used on a variety of paver materials, but always check the product specifications to ensure compatibility with your particular paver type.
What is the difference between a wet look and a natural look sealer?
A wet look sealer gives pavers a glossy, “wet” appearance and often enhances the color more dramatically, while a natural look sealer provides a more subtle finish that maintains the paver’s original appearance.
Does sealing pavers make them slippery?
Some high-gloss sealers can make pavers more slippery when wet. However, there are products with non-slip additives or those specifically designed to be non-skid that can minimize this issue.
How long does it take for paver sealer to dry?
Drying times for paver sealer can vary, but most require at least 24 hours of drying time before light foot traffic is allowed, and up to 48 hours for vehicular traffic. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific drying times.
What is the best temperature range for applying paver sealer?
The ideal temperature for applying paver sealer is typically between 50°F and 90°F (10°C to 32°C). It’s best to apply the sealer during dry weather with no rain forecasted for at least 24 hours.
How should I prepare my pavers before sealing?
Pavers should be properly cleaned and free of stains, efflorescence, and any previous sealer before applying a new coat. This may involve pressure washing, using a cleaner or efflorescence remover, and allowing the pavers to thoroughly dry.
Can I apply a sealer on newly installed pavers?
Generally, it’s recommended to wait at least 60 days after new paver installation before applying sealer to allow them to fully settle and for any efflorescence (whitish salt residue) to appear and be cleaned off.
What should I do if the paver sealer starts to peel or turn white?
If a paver sealer begins to peel or turn white, it could be due to overapplication, moisture trapped beneath the sealer, or incompatibility with the paver material. You may need to strip the old sealer and reapply an appropriate type in the correct manner.
Can I seal pavers in the winter?
Sealing pavers in winter is not recommended due to cold temperatures and potential moisture from rain or snow. These conditions prevent proper adhesion and curing of the sealer.
