Before you pull out the paver sealer, there are many things that need to be done in preparation. This is where many individuals go wrong. They slap on sealant without taking the extra necessary steps to create a beautiful and durable protective layer over their driveway, patio, or lanai. Paver sealing is a science, and if you plan to apply sealant yourself, or hire someone to do it for you, you need to know what shouldn’t be done and why. Make wise decisions with the foresight of a professional. Let’s go over the top 5 paver sealer problems that could ruin your property, and how you can avoid them.
1. Applying Paver Sealer Over Efflorescence
Efflorescence occurs when salt in the brick moves to the surface after being exposed to water. It appears as a white chalky or cloud-like form that discolors your pavers. If left alone, it will clog the pores and hold in moisture, accelerating the paver’s deterioration.
Maybe you don’t care about looks or the lifespan of your pavers and just want a quick and fast job. Well, in that case, you still need to clean the efflorescence because the surface isn’t as clean as it should be for the sealant to adhere properly.
2. Solvent Over Water-Based Sealer
You can apply a water-based sealer over a solvent but you cannot apply a solvent over a water-based sealer.
The type of sealant currently wearing down on your pavers matters. If you don’t know what that sealant is, you need to perform a Xylene test and find out. Even then, double check your sealant for adhesion in a small inconspicuous place to make sure that the one you chose is best for the job.
3. Weather Woes For Pavers
Moisture is not a sealant’s friend and can lead to paver sealer problems. While you are working and for the next 24 hours, the sky should be clear or cloudy with no chance of rain to allow the sealant to set. If you do not check an accurate weather forecast, you will regret it.
Another thing to take into consideration is temperature. If you can touch the surface of the pavers with your bare hand without it burning you, it will be a great time to apply the sealant.
Water-based sealants will not dry quickly if the weather is too cold. If your pavers aren’t between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s best to hold off until they are.
4. Assuming that More Paver Sealer Is Better
When it comes to sealants, you need the right amount to do the job well. If you apply too much and cause puddling, you will see a noticeable and unattractive effect. One too many coats can also create a similar disaster.
The sealant will become opaque, creating a hazy appearance over the pavers. Delamination may also occur.
Overall, more is not better, but neither is too little. You should spray the paver sealer on evenly in the right amount to prevent lines and restore their beauty.
5. Assuming that Cleaning Isn’t Necessary
Besides efflorescence, dirt, debris, chemical stains, and rust can get in between your pavers and sealant. When they do, your sealant won’t stick.
All of your hard work and money will be spent in vain. So do yourself a favor and make sure those pavers are sparkling clean before the sealant goes on.
If your residence or commercial property is in the Tampa Bay area, Premier Pro Wash & Seal will treat your pavers for efflorescence and then use an industrial rotary surface pressure washer to get deep into the porous surface and draw out anything that can get in the way of the sealant’s bond.
Premier Pro Wash & Seal Are Certified and Insured Professionals Serving the Tampa Bay Area in Florida
We know that washing and sealing your pavers is a tough but necessary job to do. There are many factors involved and a lot of back-breaking labor. But you don’t have to do it. Let us help!
Don’t wait until someone makes a mistake. Avoid paver sealer problems, call a company you can trust, and get it done the right way! Contact us today for a free quote and put your worries aside.
When you hire Premier Pro Wash & Seal, you can feel secure knowing that your property is in expert hands.