How to create paving that will last the test of time

Ensuring the continued performance of pavers requires proper care and maintenance. We recommend periodic cleaning and sealing of new or cleaned pavers to maintain a bright and fresh appearance, keeping your pavers looking good for years to come.

The impact of harsh weather, dust, acid rain, leaf stains, water stains and day-to-day wear from foot or vehicle traffic can be minimised and controlled through periodic cleaning. Here, we recommend an environmentally safe detergent specifically designed for cleaning concrete. Dirt and debris accumulating on the paved area should be regularly swept, and a high-pressure cleaner on a regular annual routine is ideal for keeping pavers pristine and fresh.

Applying a concrete sealer to new or cleaned pavers makes the cleaning process more manageable and can also help prevent any risk of stains. Staining can occur with most engineered and concrete paving products as they absorb any liquids or moisture that may come in contact with for extended amounts of time.

If tiling or paving has been used as a pool coping, it is essential to dip seal underneath the paver to reduce potential issues from exposure to pool chemicals. If you’re considering applying sealant yourself, here are some handy tips:

1. Wait under after the efflorescence disappears before sealing

The white-toned haze that may appear on the surface of the pavers is known as efflorescence, which is caused by naturally occurring salts. It is recommended to wait two to three months, or up to a year in some cases, before sealing the pavers to ensure this haze is completely gone.

2. Clean your pavers before applying sealant

Your pavers should have no stains and be clear of debris before sealing, as sealant may accentuate any existing staining.

3. Make sure the pavers are dry before sealing

Once your pavers have been washed, ensure they have had enough time to dry thoroughly. Pavers may dry within a few hours in warm and sunny climates but can take up to 24 hours in shady areas or cooler temperatures.

4. Check the weather forecast and temperature

Sealant requires 24-48 hours of dry weather after application to allow for curing. Additionally, lower temperatures make for better application of sealant, as pavers that are too hot will become stained and may begin to peel and age quicker.

5. Make application easier with an application sprayer

Available at any hardware store, application sprayers allow you to work faster and apply a more efficient and even coat of sealant.

6. Use enough sealant

Pavers should be saturated to ensure all crevices are covered. A dry roller should is recommended to soak up the excess sealant and avoid lines and drip marks. Once you’ve started applying the sealant, it’s important to maintain a wet edge throughout the duration of the process.

7. Allow the sealant to cure

Dry weather for 48 hours is needed to allow the sealant to cure. Additionally, driving or walking on sealed pavers is not recommended for 48 hours after application. Generally, a sealant should be reapplied every three to five years, or visible signs of wear arise.

Following a regular routine of care and maintenance involving cleaning and sealing is the best way to keep pavers looking bright and fresh.

“Periodic cleaning and sealing of new or cleaned pavers are recommended to maintain a bright and fresh appearance, keeping your pavers looking good for years to come”

“Periodic cleaning and sealing of new or cleaned pavers are recommended to maintain a bright and fresh appearance, keeping your pavers looking good for years to come”