Paving & Paving Stones Protection Sealing

So what is the Best Brick Paver Sealer?

Well there isn’t one that stands out from the rest for all scenarios. To determine what paver sealer is best you must first understand the differences between the sealers and what you would like to achieve when done.

Solvent Based Paver Sealers

Traditionally these are the most popular and have been around for the longest time. These pavers sealers are typically high in acrylic solids and will darken the surface. Available in Matte, Semi-Gloss, and High Gloss shines.

Crystal clear in liquid form. Popular solvents are Xylene, Toluene, and other Aromatic Solvents that last about 4+ years. Darken the color more so then water based sealers. Add a higher level of gloss if desired. Higher level of protection against UV degradation and fading. Better for vehicle traffic.

Solid Acrylics Vs Breathable (Styrene) Acrylics

When choosing a paver sealer is best to understand that not all acrylics are created equal. There are many paver sealers that contain inferior acrylics that will blush to turn white in color. Best for a paver sealer is one that does not seal the surface 100% but rather breathe. These sealers are less prone to trapping moisture which may lead to the dreaded white haze. Most high quality water based sealers will not blush as they a thinner in viscosity. Solvent based sealers containing a solid acrylic will have a tendency to blush/turn white. If you choose a solvent based sealer, make sure that it is a “Styrene” acrylic as these have tiny pinholes that allow the coating to breathe.

Joint Sand Stabilizing benefits

A side function for paver sealing is the ability to help solidify or stabilize the jointing sand from erosion. While most paver sealers will do this to some extent, some are designed specifically for this purpose. Unfortunately, joint stabilizing sealers do not add a high level of gloss or a deep darkening wet look.

Wet Look Paver Sealers

“Wet look” sometimes gets confused with “gloss”. Using a paver sealer that will leave a “wet look” means you are darkening the surface similar to as if it was wet with water. These sealers may or may not contain a shine level of some sort.

Gloss Paver Sealers

Gloss sealers will add a shine to the surface ranging from matter to high gloss. In most scenarios you will also darken the pavers with a wet look. These sealers may be prone to being slippery when wet so we can add anti-slip compound should it be required.