How to Seal Paver Patios

Pavement is porous by nature, acting like a sponge for oil, dirt, and moisture. Sealing your pavers locks out the elements, stabilizes the joint sand, and keeps those deep colors from fading under the sun. It is the single most effective way to ensure your patio looks as good in ten years as it does today. Done well, this project creates a protective barrier that makes routine maintenance effortless. The key is in the preparation; if you seal over grime, you lock that dirt in permanently. Take the time to deep clean and ensure the surface is bone-dry before you start. Once applied, a good sealer acts as a shield, keeping your outdoor living space crisp and clean throughout the seasons.

1. Clear the Stage. Remove all furniture, planters, and debris from the patio surface. Use a stiff-bristled broom to sweep away loose dirt and grit from the pavers and the joints.
2. Blast Away the Grime. Use a specialized paver cleaner and a pressure washer on a low-to-medium setting to remove deep-set grime. Avoid high-pressure settings that can blast away the sand between your pavers.
3. Restore the Joints. If cleaning washed away some of the existing material, sweep in new polymeric sand to fill the joints. Brush the excess off the paver surface completely to avoid leaving a haze.
4. Patience Pays Off. Wait at least 24 hours for the pavers and joints to dry completely. Sealer will turn milky if it encounters moisture trapped in the stone or sand.
5. Spray with Purpose. Use a pump sprayer to apply a light, even mist of sealer in consistent, overlapping patterns. Use a roller to back-roll any pooling or thick spots to ensure a uniform finish.
6. Let It Set. Keep all foot traffic off the patio for at least 6 hours, and avoid moving heavy furniture back onto the surface for 24 to 48 hours. Let the sealer cure fully to reach maximum durability.