When it comes to sealing your paving, choosing the right sealant is essential for ensuring a durable, long-lasting finish. With so many different types of sealants available on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is best suited for your specific paving requirements.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of sealants, their advantages and disadvantages, and offer advice on how to properly apply a sealant to ensure a perfect, durable finish.
What are sealants and why do we use them?
Sealants are an essential part of the paving process. But what is a sealant? A sealant is a liquid- or wax-based coating that is applied to the surface of the paving to protect it from damage and wear.
It does this by acting as a barrier between the paving and the environment, preventing water, dirt, and other contaminants from entering and damaging the paving itself.
Sealants are important because they help to extend the life of your paving and help keep it looking better for longer. Additionally, sealing can help to enhance the colour and texture of your paving, giving it a more polished appearance.
Different types of sealant
Choosing the right sealant for your paving installation is important, and there are several different types to choose from depending on your needs. Sealants are generally made of polymers or acrylics as these are ideal for protecting the surface from environmental wear and tear as well as providing a decorative finish.
Sealants are divided into two groups, referred to as coatings and impregnators. Coatings tend to act as a barrier between the paving material and the environment and are easily removed by using chemicals that work in a similar way to paint strippers.
Impregnators, on the other hand, work by getting into the stone itself, into what is known as the substrate, at a microscopic level.
Sealants also come in a variety of different finishes, including Invisible, Damp-look, Matt, Clear Look, Colour Boost, and Wet Look. Choosing which one is best will depend on the type of paving selected, aesthetic preferences, and any potential exposure to environmental or chemical agents.
For natural stone paving, acrylic based sealants are the best option as they form a strong barrier to protect against moisture, dirt, stains, and fading from UV exposure. They also provide excellent weather resistance and can last up to two years.
Meanwhile, concrete paving can be treated with either acrylic or polyurethane based sealers. While acrylic sealers offer better protection against UV damage and staining, polyurethane offers more flexibility in application.
Both types will protect the surface from damage, but it is important to note that sealants will not generally prevent cracking in concrete paving.
Applying sealant
As we outlined above, it is important to choose the right type for your material. Different types of paving such as natural stone and porcelain will require different types of sealants.
The application process is also an important element of ensuring their effectiveness, but following these steps will help achieve the best results with the chosen sealant.
Start by clearing the surface of the paving and allow it to dry completely before beginning to apply the sealant. When you’re ready to start, have the right tools to hand such as a brush or roller, depending on the size of the area you’re working with, a cloth or sponge, a bucket, and protective gloves and glasses. Make sure you read and follow all safety instructions when handling sealants.
Apply the sealer in small sections at a time, spreading it evenly and thinly across the area, paying particular attention to any gaps or edges in between stones. Let the first coat dry completely before adding a second. Depending on the product you’ve chosen, more than two coats may be required.
The best time of year to apply sealant is from May to October, preferably after a few days of dry and warm weather. This reduces the risk of any residual moisture being trapped between the paving and the sealant and enhancing the sealant’s ability to repel oil and water.
Summary
Sealants are a great way to protect and preserve paving installations. They provide a barrier against the elements and can extend the life of the paving material. There are several different types of sealants, each designed for specific paving materials such as natural stone or porcelain. It is important to choose the right sealant for your project, and to follow the instructions on application.
For advice on sealants and the best options for your paving choice, feel free to contact our expert team here at Easypave.
Photo by Fabian Mardi on Unsplash.
