| questions | answers |
|---|---|
| What's the main difference between water-based and solvent-based sealers? | Water-based sealers are low-VOC, have less odor, and provide a more natural, matte finish. Solvent-based sealers typically offer a higher gloss "wet look," enhance color more dramatically, and can provide superior oil stain resistance. |
| How long should I wait to seal new pavers? | It's best practice to wait at least 30-60 days after paver installation before sealing. This allows time for efflorescence, a white powdery substance, to emerge and be cleaned off before it gets trapped under the sealer. |
| What is efflorescence and how do I remove it? | Efflorescence is a salty, white powder that migrates out of concrete and pavers as they cure. It must be removed with a specialized efflorescence cleaner and a light brushing before you apply any sealer. |
| My sealer turned white or hazy. What happened and can I fix it? | This is usually caused by trapping moisture under the sealer, either from sealing too soon after cleaning or high humidity. A solvent-based sealer can often be repaired by re-emulsifying it with xylene and a roller, but always test in a small area first. |
| How long does paver sealer last and when should I recoat? | Durability depends on the sealer type, traffic, and sun exposure, but most professional sealers last 2-5 years. Recoat when the surface no longer repels water or the color begins to fade, and always clean thoroughly before applying a new coat. |
| What is the ideal weather for sealing pavers? | Apply sealer on a dry, mild day with no rain in the forecast for at least 24 hours. Avoid extreme heat or direct sunlight, which can cause the sealer to dry too quickly and create a hazy finish. |
| Can I apply a water-based sealer over an old solvent-based one? | No, this will likely cause adhesion failure and peeling. You must either completely strip the old solvent-based sealer or apply a new coat of a compatible solvent-based product after a thorough cleaning. |
| Do I need to put sand in the paver joints before sealing? | Yes, stabilizing the joints with the correct type of sand (like polymeric sand) is a critical step. Sealing without sand can leave the joints vulnerable to weed growth and paver shifting. |
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