Paver sealing is the process of applying a layer of sealant on top of your pavers, providing them with better weather resistance.
It might not be mandatory. However, sealing your pavers is a crucial part of paver maintenance. After all, you want to keep the pavers in your Melbourne property looking new and damage-free for as long as possible.
There’s just one question that homeowners ask. How long does paver sealing last, especially in the brutal Melbourne, FL, climate?
Read on to learn all you need to know about sealer durability.
Factors That Impact the Longevity of Paver Sealing
With proper paver sealing, UV rays, stains, mold, and routine wear and tear will no longer be a threat for as long as the sealant lasts. How long that will be will depend on the following key factors.
The Type of Paver Sealer Used
The type of sealer you used greatly determines how long the sealing lasts. You have the option of choosing between film-forming or penetrating sealers.
As their name suggests, film-forming sealers create a layer of protection on your pavers’ surface, adding a glossy look that enhances appearance. On the other hand, penetrating sealers go beyond the surface.
You can get about two to three years of service from film-forming sealers before having to reapply the sealer. However, thanks to the longer-lasting protection they provide, penetrating sealers can last up to five years.
Climate and Weather Conditions in Melbourne
Melbourne weather is another major factor. The harsh sun can cause your sealers to dry out and become brittle. On top of that, the rain and high humidity can wear the sealant down much quicker.
Foot and Vehicle Traffic
Workload will also impact your sealing frequency. Since areas like driveways and pool decks endure a lot of traffic, they’ll need more frequent resealing. Probably once every one or two years.
However, low-traffic areas like patios can go without resealing for five years. Just make sure you stay on top of paver maintenance.
How To Maximize the Longevity of Your Paver Sealing
Ask any professional, “How long does paver sealing last?” and they’ll say the same thing. On top of the factors shared above, maximizing the longevity of your sealer will also come down to application and maintenance.
Proper Application
There’s no way around it. Apply your sealer improperly and you won’t get as much use out of it, no matter how long-lasting the sealant is. This is why it’s vital to clean and prepare the pavers before sealing. Doing so goes a long way in ensuring optimal results.
Also, it’s important to follow the right steps. You might think applying joint sand is unnecessary, but this step is crucial for joint stabilization. Applying thin coats also helps avoid puddling, which can lead to uneven sealing and reduced lifespan.
Regular Maintenance and Cleaning
We cannot overstate the importance of regular paver maintenance. Yes, resealing your pavers is a part of that maintenance. However, there’s a lot you can do between resealing sessions to keep your pavers pristine.
For instance, sweep your pavers regularly and also clean them with a mild detergent or hose. Remember to promptly clean up spills as well. For ideal paver color retention, avoid using harsh chemicals.
Can You DIY Paver Sealing, or Should You Hire a Professional?
Looking to seal your pavers? You’re probably wondering, “How much does it cost to seal pavers in Melbourne?” The answer is a bit complicated.
Price heavily depends on factors like the size of the area, the condition of your pavers, and the type of paver material.
Since all these factors can increase overall costs, you might be tempted to go it alone. Before moving forward with your DIY sealing though, you might want to consider a few things.
Size of the Area
How large is the area you’re planning on sealing? If it’s a small space, say a patio, you could get away with doing it on your own. If the area is much larger though, like a driveway, it will be a lot trickier.
Why? Because sealing larger areas is more daunting and time consuming. You may not be up for that much labor.
Experience Level
Sealing your pavers isn’t the same as other DIY projects you might have done around your Melbourne home. If you are unfamiliar with what the process involves, the lack of experience will have you at a major disadvantage.
For starters, you won’t know what sealant to pick or equipment to use. There are also a few technical aspects, like pressure washing and sanding joints, which require not only experience, but expertise as well.
Sealing Process
Handling the task on your own greatly increases the risk of improper sealing. Make one mistake and you could end up with an uneven finish, which could severely lower the level of outdoor paver protection.
Hiring a Professional
With all such considerations in mind, your best bet would be to hire a professional. This way, you can rest easy knowing nothing will go wrong with the sealing process.
Sure, opting for this option does come with some initial costs. However, the long-term benefits of getting a quality seal outweighs what you pay at the start.
If that wasn’t enough, DIY sealing might actually cost you more. If you make a mistake and you end up with an improper seal, you’ll need to pay more to first strip the seal and reapply it properly. It really isn’t worth the risk.
How Often Should You Reseal Pavers in Melbourne?
Why is it important to answer the question, “How long does paver sealing last”? Because part of keeping your pavers protected means frequently reapplying the sealer.
Most sealers tend to last between two to five years. However, we wouldn’t advise Melbourne homeowners to wait the full five years before reapplying sealer. By then, the intense heat and occasional heavy rain will have done too much damage.
Want to keep the pavers in your Melbourne home or business properly protected? The ideal resealing frequency is every two to three years, or whenever you notice worrying signs, like:
- Fading
- Visible wear and tear
- Water not beading up
How Long Should You Wait To Seal New Pavers?
What about when dealing with new pavers? Should you schedule professional sealing services immediately after fitting new pavers to your property? The answer is no. You want to give the pavers enough time to settle and for the efflorescence to dissipate.
As a result, we recommend waiting at least 60-90 days after installation before sealing your new pavers.
Ensuring Long-Lasting Pavers Through Proper Sealing and Maintenance
Few things add beauty and charm to a property the same way pavers do. Clearly, you’d like to enjoy such perks for as long as possible. While Melbourne’s weather and other environmental factors are a problem, a proper seal can protect your pavers from such concerns.
How long does paver sealing last? This all depends on the type of sealer you used and how you care for it. With regular maintenance though, you can ensure a longer-lasting and more attractive surface.
Are you interested in extending the lifespan of your pavers? Reach out to Stellar Paver Sealing at 321-750-3357 for professional paver sealing services in Melbourne, FL.
