Process for Sealing Concrete Pavers
- Cleaning concrete pavers is the essential first step of the sealing process. Sweep the paved area of all dust and debris with a stiff bristle yard broom. The next stage is to use a high-pressure power washer, or a garden hose with a pressure nozzle attachment, to wash the concrete pavers of all dirt and stains. Add a dash of household dish detergent to stubborn stains and scrub them away with a stiff-bristle cleaning brush.
- Weeds and grass can grow through gaps in paver cracks or along joints. Remove all weeds and grass by killing with a herbicide weedkiller. Alternatively, pull up the weeds by hand, but keep in mind that this can be a time-consuming method for getting the job done. Herbicidal weedkillers can also prevent weeds from returning by destroying the roots.
- The joint material or sand between concrete pavers can erode away over time. Top-up the joints between each paver with more joint material before sealing the pavers. Fill larger gaps in joint material by applying mortar with a small putty knife or trowel. Wipe away excess mortar with a damp cloth. Wait for the mortar to dry before sealing the pavers.
- Use a water-based sealer to treat concrete pavers. The pavers will absorb some of the sealer and the rest will form a protective layer on the surface of the paver. Apply the paver sealer with a large 6- to 8-inch paintbrush or a medium-nap paint roller. Use a paint roller on rough or textured surfaces because it will spread the sealer into the texture gaps more effectively than a paintbrush. Apply the sealer in long strokes or rolls to get an even and consistent finish across all pavers. Apply more than one layer of sealer for a long-lasting finish but wait for the first coat to dry. Check the sealer manufacturer's instructions for drying times. Wear rubber gloves and protective eyewear while applying the paver sealer.