Should You Seal Your Pavers? A Paver Sealing Guide

Tired of stubborn weeds popping up between your patio pavers? Frustrated by oil stains on the driveway or the dull, faded look of your pool deck? These common issues can make even the most beautiful outdoor space feel neglected. But there’s a straightforward solution that doesn’t require a complete overhaul. A consistent paver sealing schedule is your best defense against stains, weeds, and weather damage. The process of cleaning and sealing pavers revitalizes their color and makes routine upkeep so much easier. I’ll walk you through the simple steps to restore your hardscape and prevent these problems from coming back.

Key Takeaways

• Protect your paver investment: Sealing is the most effective way to defend your outdoor surfaces against stains, weeds, and weather damage, preserving their color and extending their lifespan.
• Always start with a clean, dry surface: The most common mistake is sealing over dirt or dampness. Be patient and wait for your pavers to dry completely for at least 24-48 hours after cleaning to avoid a cloudy, blotchy finish.
• Follow a simple 2-3 year resealing schedule: Plan to reseal your pavers every few years, but let them tell you when it’s time. If water soaks in instead of beading on the surface, it’s a clear sign that the protective barrier is gone and it’s time for a fresh coat.

Is Paver Cleaning and Sealing Really Necessary?

Your pavers are a stunning investment in your home’s curb appeal and outdoor enjoyment. Whether it’s a beautiful new driveway, a welcoming patio, or a pristine pool deck, those stones work hard to make your space look great. But just like any other part of your home, they need a little care to stay in top condition. Think of cleaning and sealing as the essential maintenance that protects your investment, keeping it vibrant and durable for years to come.

Regular cleaning and sealing does more than just keep your pavers looking good—it actively defends them against the elements and everyday wear and tear. This simple process creates a protective shield that locks in the color and texture you fell in love with while locking out stains, weeds, and moisture damage. It’s the single most effective thing you can do to extend the life of your outdoor surfaces and make your routine upkeep significantly easier. By taking the time to clean and seal, you’re not just performing a chore; you’re preserving the beauty and value of your outdoor living space.

Shield Your Pavers from Stains and Weather

Think about everything your outdoor pavers are exposed to: spilled drinks during a backyard barbecue, oil drips on the driveway, and the constant exposure to Southern California sun and rain. Without a protective layer, porous materials like concrete and brick pavers can easily absorb these substances, leading to permanent stains and discoloration. Sealing creates an invisible barrier on the surface, preventing spills from soaking in and giving you time to clean them up. This protective coat also helps minimize fading from harsh UV rays, ensuring the rich colors of your pavers stay bright and true. It’s a simple step that offers powerful protection against the elements.

Keep Your Pavers Looking New for Years

Over time, dirt and grime can settle into the surface of your pavers, making them look dull and dated. A thorough cleaning followed by a quality sealant can completely rejuvenate their appearance, enhancing their natural color and giving them a clean, polished finish. You can see the stunning difference it makes in our project gallery. But the benefits go beyond aesthetics. Sealing strengthens the pavers and the joints between them, helping to prevent the cracks, chipping, and erosion that can occur over time. This process extends the functional life of your installation, ensuring it remains a durable and beautiful feature of your home for many years.

Say Goodbye to Weeds and Mildew

Few things disrupt the clean lines of a paver patio or walkway more than stubborn weeds sprouting up between the joints. Sealing helps solve this common problem. When a sealer is applied, it hardens the joint sand, creating a tough barrier that makes it incredibly difficult for weeds to take root. This same barrier also deters ants and other insects from making a home between your pavers. Furthermore, by preventing moisture from seeping into the joints and the paver surface, sealing helps inhibit the growth of mold and mildew, which is especially important for shaded areas or a paver pool deck.

Simplify Your Future Maintenance Routine

One of the best practical benefits of sealing your pavers is how much simpler it makes your cleaning routine. Because the sealer creates a smooth, non-porous surface, dirt, leaves, and other debris sit on top instead of getting ground into the paver itself. Most of the time, a quick sweep or a rinse with a garden hose is all you’ll need to keep the area looking fresh. When spills happen, they are far easier to wipe away from a sealed surface. This means less time spent scrubbing and more time enjoying your beautiful outdoor space. It’s a proactive step that pays off every time you head outside.

Potential Downsides to Consider Before Sealing

While sealing offers incredible benefits, it’s important to go into the process with a clear understanding of the potential drawbacks. Making an informed decision is key to being happy with the long-term results for your outdoor space. Like any home improvement project, there are factors to weigh, from unexpected changes in appearance to the ongoing commitment required to keep it looking its best. Thinking through these points beforehand ensures you choose the right approach for your specific needs and avoids any surprises down the road. It’s not about talking you out of sealing, but about making sure you’re fully prepared for the commitment.

Unexpected Color Changes

One of the most common surprises with paver sealer is how it can alter the color of your stones. While many people love the rich, “wet look” that some sealers provide, it might not be the aesthetic you’re going for. According to the experts at Rochester Concrete Products, some sealers can make pavers darker or even cause uneven coloring if not applied correctly. This is especially true for solvent-based sealers, which tend to enhance color more dramatically than water-based options. To avoid any regrets, it’s always a smart idea to test the sealer on a spare paver or in a small, hidden area first to see exactly how it will look once it dries.

Ongoing Maintenance and Reapplication Costs

Sealing your pavers isn’t a one-and-done task; it’s a maintenance routine you’ll need to repeat to keep the protection effective. Most sealants need to be reapplied every three to five years, which means factoring in the recurring cost of materials and labor. High-traffic areas, like a busy paver driveway, or surfaces with heavy sun exposure may even require more frequent applications. This ongoing commitment is essential for maintaining the protective barrier, but it’s a long-term investment of both time and money that you should be prepared for before you apply that first coat.

Difficulty of Removal or Correction

What happens if the sealing job doesn’t turn out right? Unfortunately, correcting a mistake isn’t as simple as just washing it off. Once a sealer has been applied and cured, especially a high-strength one, it can be very difficult and costly to remove. If moisture gets trapped underneath during application, it can create a cloudy or hazy film that ruins the look of your pavers. Stripping an old or improperly applied sealer often requires harsh chemicals and a lot of labor, a process that can sometimes be more expensive than the initial sealing itself. This is why careful preparation and application are so critical from the start.

How Much Does Paver Sealing Cost?

When planning to protect your outdoor surfaces, one of the first questions that comes to mind is about the cost. The price of paver sealing is typically calculated per square foot, but there isn’t a single flat rate. Instead, the cost is influenced by a variety of factors unique to your project. Think of it less as a standard product price and more as a customized service tailored to the specific needs of your patio, walkway, or pool deck. Understanding the variables that affect the final price will help you budget effectively and see why getting a detailed, personalized quote is the best way to get an accurate figure for your home.

Factors Influencing the Price Per Square Foot

The cost to seal pavers can range quite a bit, but a general estimate is between $0.50 and $2.50 per square foot. According to Old Station Landscape Supply, this variation depends on several key factors. The overall size of the project is a major one; larger areas often have a lower per-square-foot cost. The type and condition of your pavers also play a big role. Porous pavers may require more sealant, and if your pavers need extensive cleaning or repairs before sealing, that will add to the labor costs. Finally, the type of sealer you choose—from a basic water-based formula to a premium one with a glossy finish—will impact the material cost and the final price.

How to Clean Your Pavers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Giving your pavers a good cleaning can completely refresh your outdoor space, making your patio, driveway, or pool deck look brand new. While it might seem like a big job, breaking it down into simple steps makes it totally manageable. Think of it as a weekend project that delivers a huge payoff. With the right tools and a little bit of effort, you can wash away dirt, grime, and stains, preparing your pavers for a fresh seal or just letting their natural beauty shine through. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from prepping the area to the final rinse.

First, Get Your Paver Area Ready

First things first, you need a clean slate. Start by moving all your outdoor furniture, potted plants, grills, and anything else off the paver surface. This gives you full access to every nook and cranny. Next, grab a broom or a leaf blower and clear away any loose debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt. To protect your landscaping, it’s a great idea to cover nearby grass and flowers with a tarp. This simple step prevents cleaning solutions from harming your plants and keeps your garden beds tidy. A little prep work now saves you a lot of cleanup later and ensures a more even, thorough cleaning.

Key Preparation Step: Securing Joints with Polymeric Sand

Before you even think about sealing, take a close look at the gaps between your pavers. This is where the real magic happens for long-term stability and weed prevention. After cleaning and letting the area dry completely, you’ll want to sweep a special material called polymeric sand into all the joints. This isn’t just regular sand; it contains polymers that, when activated with a light mist of water, bind together and harden like mortar. This process is essential because it locks the pavers in place, preventing them from shifting over time. More importantly, it creates a solid, durable barrier that makes it incredibly difficult for weeds to push through or for ants to build their nests, ensuring your paver patio or walkway stays looking clean and uniform.

What You’ll Need: Tools and Solutions

You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment for a basic paver cleaning. Your go-to toolkit should include a stiff-bristle brush (avoid wire brushes, as they can scratch the pavers), a bucket, and a garden hose with a good spray nozzle. For your cleaning solution, a simple mix of warm water and a mild, biodegradable soap or a specialized paver cleaner will do the trick. It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals like acid-based cleaners, which can damage the paver surface and strip its color. A gentle approach is always best for maintaining the integrity and appearance of your beautiful hardscape.

Removing Common Paver Stains

Sometimes, general grime isn’t the only issue. Your beautiful outdoor kitchen area might have grease spots, or you may notice rust marks from patio furniture. For these stubborn spots, a general cleaning solution might not be enough. You’ll get better results if you use special cleaners designed for specific stains. For oil and grease, a poultice or a dedicated paver degreaser works wonders. If you’re dealing with rust, look for a rust remover made for masonry. For mold or mildew, a simple solution of water and white vinegar or a commercial mildew cleaner can be very effective. Always spot-test a new cleaner in an inconspicuous area first.

The Final Rinse and Dry

Once you’ve scrubbed the pavers, it’s time to rinse everything away. Use a garden hose with a strong spray nozzle to wash off all the soap and loosened grime, working from the highest point of the patio downwards. For tougher areas, you can use a pressure washer, but be careful. Use a wide-fan tip, keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the surface, and spray at an angle to avoid dislodging the joint sand. After rinsing, the most important step is to let the pavers dry completely. This is especially critical if you plan to seal them. Any trapped moisture can cause a cloudy finish, so be patient. It can take several days for the pavers to dry out fully.

Your Guide to Paver Sealing After a Deep Clean

Once your pavers are sparkling clean, it’s time for the most important step: sealing. Think of sealer as a protective shield for your beautiful patio, driveway, or pool deck. It locks in that fresh, clean look, defends against stains from oil or fallen leaves, and makes future cleaning much easier. Sealing also helps stabilize the joint sand between the pavers, which prevents weed growth and keeps everything securely in place. While it might seem like an extra task, it’s the key to preserving your investment and keeping your outdoor space looking its best for years.

This process is completely manageable for a weekend project, but it does require some attention to detail. From picking the right product to applying it correctly, each step matters. We’ll walk you through exactly what you need to do to get a durable, professional-looking finish. And of course, if you’d rather leave it to the experts, our team at Pacific Pavers provides comprehensive outdoor living solutions that include professional cleaning and sealing.

How to Choose the Perfect Paver Sealer

The first decision you’ll make is what kind of sealer to use. Your choice will directly impact the final look of your pavers. Generally, sealers fall into two categories: water-based and solvent-based. Water-based sealers are user-friendly and provide a more natural, matte finish that enhances the color without adding a heavy gloss. Solvent-based sealers tend to create a glossier, “wet look” that can really make colors pop, but they can sometimes cause a hazy finish if not applied correctly. Consider the style of your home and the look you want for your paver patio or driveway before you buy.

Water-Based vs. Solvent-Based Sealers

When you start shopping, you’ll find that most sealers are either water-based or solvent-based. Water-based sealers are a great choice if you’re looking for something eco-friendly and easy to apply with minimal odor. They typically provide a more natural, matte finish that subtly enhances your paver’s color without adding a lot of shine, making them perfect for patios and walkways. On the other hand, solvent-based sealers are known for their durability and high-gloss, “wet look” finish. This makes them an excellent option for high-traffic areas like driveways that need maximum protection against oil and tire marks. The trade-off is a stronger smell during application and a more involved process to get an even coat.

Urethane vs. Acrylic Sealers

Beyond the base, the chemical makeup of the sealer—usually urethane or acrylic—determines its performance. While acrylic sealers are widely available, it’s worth seeking out a urethane-based product for superior, long-lasting results. Urethane sealers are simply tougher. They offer better resistance to UV rays, which is a huge plus in sunny Southern California, preventing your pavers from fading over time. They also stand up much better to harsh chemicals. This is especially important for a paver pool deck exposed to chlorine or a driveway where oil or brake fluid might spill. Choosing urethane means you’re investing in a more durable shield for your pavers.

Penetrating Sealers for a Natural Look

If you love the raw, natural look of your pavers and don’t want to change their appearance at all, a penetrating sealer is the perfect solution. Unlike film-forming sealers that create a protective layer on top, penetrating sealers soak deep into the paver itself. This process provides excellent protection against water, oil, and salt damage without altering the color or texture of the stone. Because it works from within, it won’t make the surface glossy or slippery. This makes it an ideal choice for natural stone pavers or for anyone who wants invisible protection that preserves the authentic beauty of their outdoor space.

Applying Sealer for a Flawless Finish

For the best results, plan on applying two coats. Start with a light, even first coat using a garden sprayer or a roller. The goal here is to cover the entire surface of the pavers without letting the sealer puddle. Once that first coat is dry to the touch (check the product instructions for timing), you’ll apply a second, heavier coat. This is often called a “flood coat” because you’ll use more product to completely saturate the surface and, most importantly, the joints. This second coat is what really locks in the joint sand, creating a strong, weed-resistant bond.

Best Application Methods: Spraying vs. Rolling

When it comes to applying the sealer, you have two main options: using a garden sprayer or a paint roller. While both can get the job done, the method you choose can make a big difference in the final appearance of your pavers. Most professionals lean towards spraying, and for good reason. A sprayer allows you to apply a thin, even coat across the entire surface, which is key to avoiding blotchy spots or streaks. It helps you achieve a smooth finish because it prevents you from accidentally overworking the sealer, a common issue with rollers that can leave marks behind.

Rolling is still a popular choice, especially for smaller DIY projects, but it requires a careful touch to avoid lap lines where your strokes overlap. A great technique that combines the benefits of both methods is to spray and backroll. This involves spraying a section of pavers and then immediately going over it with a roller. This method ensures you get consistent coverage from the sprayer while the roller helps to work the sealer evenly into the texture of the pavers and the joints. Whichever method you choose, the goal is a consistent application without any puddles.

Why the Weather Forecast Matters

This might be the most critical tip of all: your sealer needs a clear, dry forecast to cure properly. Before you even start, check the weather and make sure you have at least 24 to 48 hours of sunshine and dry conditions ahead. Applying sealer when rain is on the way is a recipe for disaster. Moisture can get trapped underneath the sealer, resulting in a cloudy, blotchy finish that ruins all your hard work. It’s always better to postpone the project for a few days than to risk a bad result. Patience is key to achieving that perfect, long-lasting seal.

Ideal Temperature and Weather Conditions

Beyond just looking for a sunny day, you’ll want to pay close attention to the temperature. The ideal range for applying paver sealer is between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s too hot, the sealer can dry too fast, leaving streaks and an uneven finish. If it’s too cold, it won’t cure correctly, compromising its protective qualities. Experts suggest that the sweet spot is right around 75 degrees. Just as important, make sure there’s no humidity or morning dew on the pavers. Any moisture, whether from rain or condensation, can get trapped under the sealer and create that dreaded cloudy, white haze. Aim for a clear, dry, and moderately warm day to get the best possible results for your outdoor space.

Understanding Sealer Curing and Drying Times

Once the sealer is applied, you need to let it do its thing. It’s important to understand the difference between drying time and curing time. A sealer might feel dry to the touch within a few hours, but it takes much longer to fully cure—meaning, to harden completely and reach maximum protective strength. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. As a general rule, you should keep all foot traffic off the sealed area for at least 24 hours. For paver driveways, you’ll want to wait even longer, typically 48 to 72 hours, before parking any vehicles on the surface.

How Often Should You Clean and Seal Pavers?

Knowing when to clean and seal your pavers is key to keeping them looking fantastic for years. It’s not a one-size-fits-all schedule, but more of a rhythm you get into with your outdoor space. Several factors, from weather to foot traffic, play a role. By learning what to look for, you can create a simple maintenance routine that protects your investment and keeps your patio, driveway, or walkway looking its best.

Factors That Affect Your Sealing Schedule

As a general rule, you should plan on sealing your pavers every two to three years. However, this can change based on your specific situation. A high-traffic paver driveway will need more frequent attention than a quiet backyard patio that only sees occasional use. The Southern California sun can also be intense, breaking down sealers more quickly. If your pavers are in a fully exposed area, you might find yourself on a two-year cycle. On the other hand, a shaded, protected area might go three years or more without needing a fresh coat. The key is to observe how your pavers handle their specific environment.

High-Traffic vs. Low-Traffic Areas

Your sealing schedule really comes down to how much use the area gets. High-traffic zones, like your main walkway or the paver driveway where you park every day, are constantly exposed to foot traffic and vehicle weight, which wears down the sealer more quickly. In contrast, low-traffic spaces, such as a quiet backyard paver patio or a decorative garden path, experience much less wear. While the general advice is to reseal every two to three years, a busy driveway might need a fresh coat every two years, especially under the intense Southern California sun. A more secluded, shaded patio, however, could easily go three years or more. The best approach is to simply watch your pavers and let them tell you when it’s time for a touch-up.

Telltale Signs Your Pavers Need Resealing

Your pavers will give you clear signals when they’re ready for a new coat of sealer. The most obvious sign is their appearance; if the colors look faded or the surface seems dull, the protective layer is likely wearing thin. You can also perform a simple water test. Sprinkle a little water on the surface. If it beads up like on a freshly waxed car, your sealer is still doing its job. If the water soaks in immediately and darkens the paver, it’s time to reseal. Catching this early prevents moisture from seeping in, which helps stop weeds and stains before they start. You can browse our gallery to see how vibrant and rich sealed pavers should look.

Checking for Physical Wear on the Sealer

Beyond the water test, it’s a good idea to visually inspect your pavers. A healthy coat of sealer gives the surface a subtle sheen and keeps the colors looking rich and deep. If you notice that your pavers look dull, chalky, or the colors seem faded and washed out, that’s a strong indicator the protective layer is breaking down. Pay close attention to high-traffic areas, like the main path from your patio door or the tire lanes on your driveway, as these spots often show wear first. This physical wear means your pavers are losing their primary defense against UV rays and are becoming more vulnerable to stains.

When Should You First Seal New Pavers?

If you have brand-new pavers, it’s tempting to seal them right away, but patience is crucial here. It’s best to wait several months to a year before applying the first coat of sealer. This waiting period allows for a natural process called efflorescence to occur, where mineral salts from the pavers and setting bed migrate to the surface, appearing as a hazy white residue. This is completely normal. If you seal the pavers too soon, you’ll trap this white film underneath, clouding their appearance. Giving them time to breathe ensures your first seal goes on a clean, stable surface for the best possible result.

Waiting Period for Film-Forming (Wet Look) Sealers

If you’ve chosen a film-forming sealer to give your pavers that popular “wet look,” you’ll need to be patient. It is essential to wait at least 30 days after your pavers are installed before applying this type of sealant. This waiting period is non-negotiable because it allows any moisture trapped deep within the pavers to evaporate completely. Sealing too early traps that moisture under the surface film, which can lead to a cloudy, hazy appearance or cause the sealer to peel away over time. Giving your new pavers a month to breathe ensures a crystal-clear, durable finish that truly enhances their color and protects them properly.

Waiting Period for Non-Film-Forming (Natural Finish) Sealers

For sealers that offer a more natural finish, the waiting time is much shorter. These non-film-forming products are designed to penetrate the paver rather than coat the top, so the main concern is surface dampness, not deep-set moisture. After giving your new pavers a thorough cleaning, you should wait about one week before sealing. This gives the surface and the joints enough time to dry out completely. Applying a penetrating sealer to even slightly damp pavers can prevent it from adhering correctly, leading to a splotchy and ineffective result. A week of dry weather is usually all you need to ensure the sealer soaks in evenly for invisible, long-lasting protection.

Creating Your Simple Paver Maintenance Plan

The best way to stay on top of paver care is to create a simple, repeatable plan. Start by giving your pavers a good sweep and a gentle rinse every few months to remove dirt and debris. Once a year, perhaps during your spring cleaning, take a closer look. Do the water test and check for any stubborn stains or weeds. Based on this annual inspection, you can decide if it’s time to reseal. Sticking to a regular cleaning and resealing schedule every two to three years will prevent bigger issues down the road and make maintenance feel much more manageable. Consistent care is the easiest way to protect your beautiful outdoor living space.

Avoid These Common Paver Sealing Mistakes

You’ve put in the work to clean your pavers, and you’re ready for that final, protective seal. This is where you can really lock in that fresh look, but a few common missteps can undo all your hard work. Taking a little extra care to avoid these mistakes will ensure your paver patio or driveway looks fantastic for years to come. Think of it as the finishing touch that protects your beautiful investment.

Mistake #1: Sealing Over Dirt or Moisture

This is the number one rule of sealing: always start with a completely clean and dry surface. Applying sealer over dirt, oil stains, or grime essentially traps those blemishes under a protective layer, making them a permanent feature of your patio. The same goes for moisture. Sealing damp pavers can trap water, leading to a cloudy or hazy finish that won’t cure properly. After a thorough cleaning, you need to be patient. It can take a full 24 to 48 hours, or even longer in cooler weather, for pavers to dry completely. Don’t rush this step—a little patience now prevents a lot of frustration later.

Mistake #2: Ignoring the Weather Forecast

Your weather app is your best friend on sealing day. Applying sealer in the wrong conditions can ruin the finish. If it’s too hot, the sealer can dry too quickly, leaving streaks. If it’s too cold, it won’t adhere correctly to the paver surface. And rain is the absolute enemy—even a light drizzle can wash away the sealer or leave water spots and a milky haze. Plan your project for a time when you can count on clear skies and moderate temperatures for at least 24 hours after application. This gives the sealer the ideal conditions to cure into a durable, even coat.

Mistake #3: Using the Wrong Sealer (or Too Much)

When it comes to paver sealer, more is definitely not better. Applying too thick of a coat or sealing too frequently can cause a buildup that makes your pavers look hazy, splotchy, or unnaturally shiny. It can also make the surface slippery. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. It’s also crucial to choose the right product. Not all sealers are created equal. Using a high-quality sealer specifically designed for your type of pavers will give you the best results. If you’re unsure, consulting with professionals can help you select the perfect product for your specific outdoor living space.

Mistake #4: Skipping the All-Important Prep Work

Properly preparing the surface is the foundation of a long-lasting seal coat. Before you even think about opening a can of sealer, you have to thoroughly clean your pavers to remove every trace of dirt, moss, oil, and any old, flaking sealer. Any debris left behind will prevent the new sealer from bonding correctly with the paver. This means the finish won’t last as long and may peel or flake off prematurely. Taking the time to sweep, scrub, and rinse ensures you’re applying the sealer to a pristine surface, giving you a durable and beautiful finish that truly protects your pavers.

Related Articles

• How to Restore Faded Pavers – Pacific Pavers
• Sealed vs. Unsealed Pavers: Key Differences – Pacific Pavers
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need to wait months to seal my brand-new pavers? Yes, and it’s worth the wait. New pavers go through a natural process where mineral salts come to the surface, creating a temporary white haze. This is completely normal. If you seal them too soon, you trap that haze underneath, which can make your beautiful new pavers look cloudy. Giving them several months to a year allows this process to finish so you can apply the sealer to a clean, stable surface for a perfect, long-lasting finish.

What happens if I just skip sealing my pavers altogether? While your pavers won’t fall apart overnight, you’ll definitely notice a difference over time. Without a protective seal, they are much more vulnerable to stains from things like spilled drinks, oil, or fallen leaves. The sun will also fade their color more quickly. You’ll also find yourself dealing with more weeds and mildew in the joints, as there’s nothing to lock the sand in place and block moisture. Sealing is the best way to protect your investment and keep it looking great with far less effort.

Can I just use a pressure washer to clean my pavers? You can, but you need to be very careful. A pressure washer is a powerful tool that can easily damage the surface of your pavers or blast the sand right out of the joints if used incorrectly. If you choose to use one, be sure to use a wide-fan tip, keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the surface, and spray at an angle. For most general cleaning, a stiff-bristle brush and a garden hose are safer and just as effective.

Will sealing make my pavers slippery, especially around the pool? This is a great question and a common concern. When applied correctly, a high-quality sealer designed for pavers should not make the surface dangerously slick. Many products even contain anti-slip additives. The risk of slipperiness usually comes from applying too much sealer, which creates a thick, glossy film on the surface. By following the instructions and applying thin, even coats, you can get all the protective benefits without sacrificing safety.

How do I know which sealer finish is right for my space? The finish you choose really comes down to personal preference. A sealer with a natural or matte finish will enrich the color of your pavers without adding shine, giving them a clean but understated look. A “wet look” or gloss sealer will deepen the colors more dramatically and add a noticeable sheen, which can look very striking on a driveway or modern patio. A good way to decide is to consider the style of your home and the overall vibe you want for your outdoor area.