Question 1

Why is sealing pavers necessary in Kirkland's climate?

Accepted Answer

In our 35 years of experience in Kirkland, we've found that the primary reason for paver degradation is the harsh freeze-thaw cycle. Unsealed pavers absorb water from rain and snowmelt. When temperatures drop, this trapped moisture freezes, expands, and exerts immense pressure from within, causing surface spalling, flaking, and cracking. Professional paver sealing creates a hydrophobic barrier, preventing water penetration and mitigating this damage. It also provides essential UV protection against sun-induced color fading and stabilizes the polymeric sand in the joints, which is crucial for preventing weed growth and maintaining the structural integrity of the entire interlocking system.

Question 2

How long does the paver sealing process take from start to finish?

Accepted Answer

A typical paver sealing project is completed over 2 to 3 days, although this depends heavily on weather conditions. Day 1 is dedicated to preparation: a thorough pressure washing and cleaning of the paver surface, which then needs at least 24 hours of dry weather to completely dry out. On Day 2, assuming the surface is dry, we sweep in the polymeric sand and apply the first coat of sealer. A second coat is usually applied a few hours later. The surface is then left to cure. While it may be walkable in a few hours, we recommend keeping furniture off for 24 hours and vehicles off for at least 48 to 72 hours to ensure the sealer fully hardens for maximum durability.

Question 3

What is the difference between a 'wet look' and a 'natural' sealer?

Accepted Answer

The main difference lies in aesthetics and the type of protection provided. A 'natural look' sealer is typically a penetrating, breathable sealant. It soaks into the paver's pores to protect from within, repelling water and oil without changing the surface appearance or texture. It’s an excellent choice for preserving the original look of natural stone. A 'wet look' sealer is a film-forming product that creates a protective layer on the surface. This enhances and deepens the paver colors, providing a rich, semi-gloss or high-gloss finish. This type of paver sealing also offers superior joint stabilization, making the polymeric sand very hard and durable. We help clients choose based on their aesthetic goals and paver type.

Question 4

How often should I have my pavers resealed?

Accepted Answer

We recommend a professional paver sealing every 3 to 5 years for most residential properties in the Kirkland area. The exact frequency depends on several factors. High-traffic areas like driveways may require sealing closer to the 3-year mark, while a lightly used backyard patio might last the full 5 years. The amount of direct sunlight also plays a role, as UV exposure is a primary factor in breaking down the sealant over time. We advise homeowners to watch for signs like water absorbing into the pavers quickly rather than beading up, or the color beginning to look dull and faded. These are indicators that it's time to schedule a maintenance application.

Question 5

Will sealing make my pavers slippery when they are wet?

Accepted Answer

This is a common and important concern. When applied correctly by professionals, sealed pavers should not become hazardous. We use high-quality sealants that contain or can be mixed with a special polymer grit additive. This grit is a slip-resistant aggregate that creates a slightly textured, high-traction surface, much like fine sand. It's invisible to the eye but provides the necessary grip underfoot, especially around pool decks and on sloped walkways. Penetrating sealers, which don't form a surface film, inherently do not alter the paver's natural texture and therefore do not increase slipperiness. We always prioritize safety in our paver sealing applications.

Question 6

Can you remove old, failed sealer before applying a new coat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. Attempting to apply new sealer over an old, failing coat is a common mistake that leads to a cloudy, flaky, or yellowed appearance. If your pavers have a previous sealant that is peeling or has become opaque, we perform a chemical stripping process. This involves applying a specialized, environmentally-safe stripping agent that breaks down the old sealer. We then use heated pressure washing to completely remove the residue, bringing the pavers back to their natural, porous state. This ensures the new paver sealing application can penetrate and bond correctly for a beautiful, long-lasting finish.

Question 7

What is efflorescence and does sealing prevent it?

Accepted Answer

Efflorescence is the white, chalky haze that can appear on the surface of concrete or clay pavers. It's caused by natural salts and minerals within the paver being drawn to the surface by water and left behind as the water evaporates. While paver sealing cannot stop the natural process entirely, it significantly helps manage and reduce its appearance. We use 'breathable' sealants that allow water vapor to escape from within the paver, which prevents moisture from getting trapped beneath the sealant layer. By also preventing surface water from soaking in, the sealing process drastically reduces the amount of water moving through the paver, thereby minimizing the migration of salts to the surface.

Question 8

What maintenance is needed after my pavers are sealed?

Accepted Answer

Post-application care is simple but important for maximizing the life of your paver sealing. We advise routine cleaning with a broom or leaf blower to remove debris. For dirt or spills, a simple rinse with a garden hose and, if needed, a mild, pH-neutral cleaner is sufficient. It's crucial to avoid harsh chemicals like acid-based cleaners or de-icing salts with magnesium chloride, as they can damage the protective sealant layer. Proper maintenance ensures the sealant performs as expected for its full 3-5 year lifespan. This service is a key component of our comprehensive hardscaping and paving contractor maintenance plans designed for Kirkland homes.

Paver Sealing in Kirkland

About Our Paver Sealing Services in Kirkland

Our Paver Sealing Process

Surface Preparation

Joint Re-Sanding

Professional Sealing

Curing & Inspection

Why Choose Us for Paver Sealing in Kirkland?

How Much Does Paver Sealing Cost in Kirkland?

Recent Paver Sealing Projects in Kirkland

Paver Sealing FAQ in Kirkland