Block paving sealing is an important part of surface maintenance. Block paving is a reliable and strong option for any property. Did you know there's one easy technique to make your driveway even more resilient? You can increase the resistance of your driveway against stains, scratches, and colour fading by applying a block paving sealer.
Many of us turn to our outdoor areas when we catch a glimmer of spring sunshine. Block paving sealer can help keep weeds at bay, and block paving sealer's silk wet look gives a vibrant shine to your surface. Because sealants provide additional protection against the environment, pollutants, and weeds, they have gained popularity.
The Benefits of Block Paving
Block paving has several benefits compared to alternative patio and driveway materials like asphalt or poured concrete.
These include:
Durability and longevity: Block paving is exceptionally robust and resistant to cold, severe weather and heavy loads. Block-paved patios and driveways can survive decades if installed and maintained correctly.
Low Maintenance: Block paving takes very little maintenance, unlike materials like asphalt that crack and need to be resurfaced. Regular sweeping, washing, and restocking sand in the joints (if necessary) are all required to maintain its best appearance.
Versatility and Aesthetics: Block paving is available in various hues, patterns, and sizes. This gives you more creative design options to match your home's and garden's tastes. Block paving can be used to construct artistic driveways, walks, patios, and even wall elements.
Enhanced Curb Appeal and Potential Property Value: A well-planned and constructed block paved patio or driveway can improve your home's curb appeal and raise its value. This eye-catching surface is cared for correctly with block paving, sealing, and cleaning.
Block paving is a practical and lovely choice for patios, walks, and driveways. Although the initial cost is higher, many homeowners find that the durability, low maintenance needs, and flexible design make it an excellent investment.
Sealer For Block Paving on Patios and Driveways
Despite being a common cosmetic choice for patios and driveways, block paving has many more seams than typical concrete paving slabs exposed to the weather and the possibility of weed development. The maximum defence against weathering, everyday dirt, moss, algae, and unintentional spills is provided by sealants. They are now a common addition to patios and driveways, helping to keep water out and making the area easier to clean and maintain.
In addition to shielding paving joints from the weather, spills, and dirt, block paving sealers are a homeowner's first choice when combating weed growth. As weed inhibitors, sealants are crucial because they offer a barrier that prevents weeds from growing in the first place.
Block pavers are frequently utilised in town centres, out-of-town shopping districts, and bus or train stations for commercial paving. Sand jointing compound from brick and concrete block pavement can begin to wear away with the continuous use of sweeping machines to maintain hygienic and clean surfaces, especially in commercial locations with heavy traffic.
The Sealing Process – Preparation and The Best Block Paving Sealers
Block paving sealing can take time because the surface must be thoroughly cleaned, dried, and prepared. We advise delaying getting the sealing rolling kit ready for at least three months after placing pavers rather than applying sealant as part of the installation procedure. By doing this, you may be sure that the paving blocks are free of salt deposits or efflorescence.
Similarly, you have to wait at least 14 days after cleaning to apply a sealant so you can keep an eye out for any efflorescence. Avoid "sealing in" any reflected spots into the pavers as much as possible. Nevertheless, most home block paving varieties can be sealed; porcelain pavement is a notable exception. Because these opulent pavers have been pre-treated, they are more stain- and fade-resistant and scratch-resistant right out of the box. However, if a driveway made of natural stone or concrete is what you're seeking, you can seal your block paving to increase its longevity.
For sealing preparation to help with pressure washing driveways, Smartseal’s Drive Clean Xtreme is ideal. This is the best cleaner for driveways made of natural stone, concrete, and block pavers. It is a high-performing, quick-acting cleaning solution. Just dilute 1:1 and apply a sprayer or watering can to a moist area. Make sure the area stays wet for sixty minutes, and then use clean water to rinse it off. Reapply or leave the product on the surface longer in areas with extensive soiling or contamination. Four active chemicals in Drive Clean Xtreme work together to clean and stop the growth and spread of black spots, lichen, algae, moss and surface dirt.
Smartseal Patio Clean Xtreme is fantastic for cleaning patio surfaces in preparation for sealing. This powerful and highly effective cleaner has all of the qualities of the Drive Clean Xtreme but is best suited to use on patios.
Block Paving Sealers
Smartseal offers three premium block paving sealers. These are:
Matt Block Paving Sealer Solvent-Based Acrylic - This is a natural-looking matt sealant for block paving. SmartSeal Block Paving Sealer aims to improve the colour and visual attractiveness of flagstones or block paving, whether they are new or old, by preventing weed development and stains. The sealed surface of the jointing sand will enhance its abrasion resistance, shield it from weed infestation and erosion, and act as a barrier against impurities, making maintenance simpler.
Solvent-Free Block Paving Sealer – This environmentally friendly block paving sealer is great for weed prevention in the joints of block paving. It is a solvent-free, water-based block paving sealant and weed inhibitor that emits no fumes or smell. Block paving sealer and sand hardener are easy to use, quite good at keeping weeds and moss at bay, and shield blocks.
Polyurethane Block Paving Sealer (Retail Use not recommended) – This is a great block paving sealer that is resistant to oil for locations with high traffic. Smartseal Polyurethane is mainly intended for commercial block paving sealers with a low-viscosity prepolymer solvent base. Jointing sand will harden it and produce an efficient, long-lasting seal on the concrete block pavement's surface.
The Advantages of Block Paving Sealing
Maintaining the longevity of your driveway requires sealing the block paving. The sealer provides enhanced resistance to stains, oil spills, and ordinary wear and tear on pavers, but it also simplifies cleaning; a simple sponge wipe-down is typically sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. The sealant also fills in the gaps and fissures where obstinate shoots emerge, keeping weeds out of block pavers roads. Fantastic news for individuals who constantly look forward to checking off weeds from their paving as it comes on their to-do list!
Before sealing a block paving driveway, the entire area must be prepared for this necessary addition. This includes pulling weeds, cleaning accumulated dirt or oil stains, and removing moss or algae from the pavers. If you use a pressure washer on your driveway, it may quickly remove everyday dirt and grime. However, make sure your block pavers can withstand a jet wash beforehand. After that, remove any last bits of debris with a brush and let the pavers dry.
Smartseal offers a range of products to protect and preserve brickwork and masonry.
