Do's and Don'ts of Paver Sealing
Do have your surfaces pressure cleaned every 6 months to a year
Regular cleanings are a great way to maintain the look of your seal and keep weeds, mold and dirt at bay. We suggest that you schedule a clean every 6 months up to a year depending on the condition of your surface. This annual clean is included in our maintenance package. little dawn and water or 30 second outdoor cleaner can be used as needed in between cleanings if necessary. Tire marks? If this happens on top of your sealer simply brush off with a bristle brush or broom and wash and rinse with a little bit of soap and water.
Don't bleach your entire surface to treat stains
Trying to treat stains on your own can be tricky and we've seen too many customers fall victim to overusing products such as straight bleach that leaves their driveway looking worse than it did before.
Do use more leveling sand as needed
Over time your pavers may appear unleveled and require more sand. We suggest using leveling sand which can be found at Ace Hardware and other local stores for home improvement. Just remember a little sand goes a long way. You never want the sand to look like a grout line and it's better to have a professional add sand for you to prevent messy do-it-yourself mistakes.
Don't get talked into using polymeric sand
We've stripped too many driveways of their old cracked and discolored polymeric sand. Many contractors love to use this popular sand but don't use sealers that will bind properly with it, or simply use too much. This technique looks beautiful up north but is disastrous under our tropical conditions. The end result often ends up looking awful and costing more to maintain or remove. Regular leveling sand or joint sand is much easier to maintain and is only needed if your pavers require them. If your pavers are perfectly set and leveled it's better not to mess with them!
Do ask about sealers before choosing the right contractor
Whether you're looking for a matte finish or a glossier sheen, we have the right sealer for you. We take pride in only using the best commercial grade sealers on the market and we never use heavy xylene sealers, which can smother your pavers and cause them to turn a milky white color. Instead we use breathable but penetrating sealers that will protect and restore your surface without trapping in moisture. We also love using sealers with a high percentage of solids, which ensures a longer lasting seal.
Don't go with the cheapest quote or the most expensive
It's normal to shop around. We all do it. But be weary of hiring the company that gives you the lowest price or even assuming the business that charges the most will give you the best results. What it comes down to is knowledge about the products being used, good before and afters to show you what you can expect, and happy previous customers who are willing to vogue for the team you're about to hire. Honest contractors are happy to answer your questions and can always provide you with customer references or point you in the direction of positive reviews.