Paver sealing is one of the most debated topics among Long Island homeowners. Some swear by it, others skip it entirely, and many are unsure whether the cost is justified. The truth is that sealing is not strictly necessary for every paver installation, but it offers real benefits when done correctly. It protects against staining, stabilizes joint sand, enhances color, and reduces weed growth. Understanding when sealing makes sense, which product to use, and how the process works will help you make an informed decision for your property.
What Paver Sealing Actually Does
A paver sealer is a liquid coating applied to the surface of interlocking pavers after installation. Once cured, it forms a protective barrier that repels water, oil, and other contaminants. Sealers also lock in polymeric sand in the joints, preventing it from washing out during heavy rain or power washing. On Long Island, where patios and driveways endure salt exposure, freeze-thaw cycling, and summer barbecue spills, a quality sealer adds a meaningful layer of protection that extends the life and appearance of your pavers.
Types of Paver Sealers
Water-Based Sealers
Water-based sealers are the most popular choice for residential projects. They produce minimal odor during application, dry quickly, and provide a natural matte finish that does not dramatically change the paver appearance. These sealers are breathable, meaning they allow moisture vapor to escape from beneath the pavers, which is important in Long Island climates where ground moisture levels fluctuate. They typically last two to three years before reapplication is needed.
Solvent-Based Sealers
Solvent-based sealers penetrate deeper and generally last longer than water-based options, often three to five years. They produce a more noticeable wet look or semi-gloss finish that enhances paver color more dramatically. The tradeoff is stronger odor during application, longer cure times, and the potential to trap moisture if applied incorrectly. Solvent-based products are a good fit for homeowners who want their pavers to look freshly installed with rich, saturated color.
Penetrating Sealers
Penetrating sealers absorb into the paver rather than forming a film on the surface. They provide stain protection without changing the appearance of the paver at all. These are ideal for homeowners who want invisible protection, particularly on natural stone like bluestone or travertine where a surface coating could alter the texture or sheen. Penetrating sealers are also less likely to become slippery when wet.
When to Seal Your Pavers
New paver installations should cure for at least 30 to 60 days before sealing. This allows any efflorescence, the white haze that naturally appears on new concrete pavers, to work its way out. Sealing over efflorescence traps it beneath the coating and creates a cloudy, uneven appearance. The best time to seal on Long Island is late spring through early fall, when temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees and rain is not in the forecast for at least 24 hours after application.
The Sealing Process Step by Step
- Clean the pavers thoroughly using a pressure washer at 2,500 to 3,000 PSI to remove dirt, algae, and stains
- Allow the surface to dry completely for at least 24 to 48 hours after washing
- Replace any missing or degraded polymeric sand in the joints and compact it
- Apply the sealer evenly using a low-pressure sprayer or roller, working in manageable sections
- Apply a second coat if recommended by the manufacturer, typically within 2 to 4 hours of the first
- Keep foot and vehicle traffic off the sealed surface for at least 24 hours while the product cures
DIY vs Professional Paver Sealing
Paver sealing is technically a DIY project, but the results vary significantly based on preparation and technique. The most common homeowner mistakes are sealing over dirty pavers, applying sealer too thickly, sealing before efflorescence has cleared, and working in improper weather conditions. Each of these mistakes leads to visible problems like hazing, peeling, white spots, or uneven sheen. Professional sealing on Long Island typically costs $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot, which includes thorough cleaning, joint sand replacement, and two coats of sealer. For a 500-square-foot patio, that works out to $750 to $1,500.
How Often Should You Reseal?
Most sealers need to be reapplied every two to four years depending on the product type, traffic level, and sun exposure. Driveways that see daily vehicle traffic may need resealing sooner than a backyard patio that gets moderate foot traffic. South-facing surfaces that receive heavy sun exposure also tend to break down sealer faster. A simple water test can help you gauge when it is time: sprinkle water on the surface, and if it absorbs rather than beading up, the sealer has worn through and reapplication is due.
Protect Your Paver Investment
Whether you choose to seal your pavers or not, regular maintenance keeps them looking good and performing well. Sweeping, occasional rinsing, and keeping joints filled with polymeric sand are the basics. If you do decide to seal, do it right the first time with proper preparation and a quality product. Brothers Paving & Masonry offers professional paver sealing services throughout Commack, West Islip, Lindenhurst, East Northport, and all of Long Island. Contact us for a free estimate on sealing your existing paver surfaces.