For those of you who have lived in the Reno, Nevada area all their lives know that the dry weather can take a toll on your beatiful landscaping upgrades and patio furniture. Heres how to keep your old pavers looking fresh.
Sealing a paver driveway is not absolutely necessary, but it does have its advantages. A sealant prevents the pavers from absorbing moisture and eroding, makes stains easier to remove, and can improve the aesthetic appearance of an older driveway with dull, drab pavers. Action Lawn & Landscape LLC can not only seal pavers but also install new ones.
Choose a paver sealer that is appropriate for the material of your pavers, whether they are clay, brick, or concrete. Choose a sealant that is solvent-based, not water-based, as a water-based sealant will not hold up to the wear and tear a driveway endures. Calculate the square footage of your driveway to determine how much sealant you will use if your doing it yourself.
Your paver driveway must be completely clean and dry before sealant can be applied. Check the weather forecast, and do not start the project if there is any chance of rain within the next few days, or if there has been rain in the past 24 hours. Sweep your driveway clear of large debris first with a broom. Then use a pressure washer to blast away fine debris and stains. Make sure the paver surface is clear of any joining sand you may have blasted out. A mild household detergent may help to remove stains, but avoid anything with harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage your pavers. If you do use a detergent, go over the driveway with the pressure washer once more to wash away all suds and soap residue.
Read the label on your sealant for any instructions and safety precautions. Start in one corner and use the paint roller to apply the sealant evenly over the paver surface, working backwards. Note that a sponge-type roller will help you avoid picking up any loose joining sand better than a nap-type roller would.If desired, a second coat can be applied 2-4 hours after the initial coat. This is typically done for aesthetic purposes, to give the pavers a ‘wet look’. Remember to keep your face and hands protected while applying sealant and to stop immediately if the fumes starts to cause headache or dizziness.
Wait at least three hours after the final coat before walking on the driveway, and 24 hours before you drive on it. In the meantime, you can use Xylene or a lacquer thinner to clean your tools of the sealant. Sealing your driveway at least every two years will provide the best protection against the elements and keep the pavers looking good for years to come.