Paver Cleaning and Sealing

The Difference Between Paver Cleaning and Sealing

Maintaining pavers is important for keeping them looking their best. Cleaning removes dirt, debris, and stains from the surface of the pavers while sealing protects them from weathering, staining, and fading. Sealing also makes them easier to clean in the future. In this article, we will discuss the difference between paver cleaning and sealing.

Cleaning Pavers

Cleaning pavers is the process in which you use a cleaning solution to remove dirt, debris, and stains from the topmost layer of the paver. Cleaning products vary depending on the type of soil/debris being removed. Cleaning solutions for oily or greasy stains are much different than those used to remove rust or mildew. Typical cleaning solutions are made up of 10% acid, which can be found in common household products such as vinegar or lemon juice diluted with water.

Sealing Pavers

Sealing pavers is the practice of applying a protective cover over all or part of a paver surface that helps prevent damage due to weathering and staining There are two types of sealers: penetrating and topical.

Penetrating sealers are applied directly to the paver surface where they seep into small pores to provide protection from staining, fading, and weathering. Penetrating sealers also help the pavers resist discoloration due to algae growth. Topical sealers sit on top of the entire paver surface providing a protective coating that is not absorbed by the paver surface. However, this type of sealer can be easily washed off during routine cleaning. For this reason, it is not recommended for driveways or entrances.

Which Sealer Is Right for You?

Depending on your needs, you may require either a penetrating or topical sealer. If you receive considerable foot traffic in your garage or are concerned about heavy stains due to rust, mildew, or oil/grease, you probably want a penetrating sealer. Penetrating sealers are also used on exterior surfaces such as sidewalks and entryways where foot traffic is prevalent. If your main concern is protecting the surface from fading or discoloration due to algae growth, use a topical sealer. Topical sealers are used for driveways, patios, pool decks, and other areas that receive mostly light foot traffic.

When sealing pavers it is important to follow all manufacturer instructions closely. Some pavers may require an acid wash before the first application of penetrating sealant while others are ready for application right away. Always check with your stone provider before starting any project to avoid costly mistakes.

In summary, cleaning pavers is the process of removing dirt, debris, and stains from the surface of pavers while sealing protects them from weathering, staining, and fading as well as making them easier to clean in the future.

When sealing pavers it is important to follow all manufacturer instructions closely. Some pavers may require an acid wash before the first application whereas others are ready for application right away. Always check with your stone provider before starting any project to avoid costly mistakes. In summary, cleaning pavers is the process of removing dirt, debris, and stains from the surface of pavers while sealing protects them from weathering, staining, and fading as well as making them easier to clean in the future.