Pavers are an excellent addition to homes: They add a touch of pattern, color, and texture to outdoor spaces. Investing in paver sealers, meanwhile, helps maintain the mint condition of concrete, stone, and brick hardscapes.
Sadly, even the most durable sealers eventually need a fresh coat to preserve the paver's longevity and appearance. To further complicate matters, relying on the paver's age to know when to reseal it is never enough. Several factors determine how quickly the surface layer on the paver wears down.
Here are some telltale signs it's time to reseal the pavers.
4 Signs You Should Reseal Pavers
1. Water Seepage
Water-resistant sealers ordinarily prevent the penetration of water through the pavers that have been properly applied. An old sealer loses its water-resistant properties, though, allowing water to seep when left unchanged after a long time. You may notice damp spots creating a favorable environment for mildew and mold to grow in and around pavers.
Once the water stops beading over the paver's surface, applying a fresh sealer coat will help prevent any further seepage.
2. Color Fading
Outdoor pavers eventually lose their color due to constant exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Unfortunately, this common problem makes outdoor space less inviting since all the vibrant hues become dull. UV rays affect the surface pigment of the paver at a molecular level. The rays cause the pigment to break down or change its structure, resulting in a washed-out or faded appearance. Darkly pigmented pavers are particularly likely to fade over time.
Once the paver loses its original color, though, you can restore it instead of completely replacing the pavers. A quick solution involves resealing the pavers, protecting them against further fading. UV-resistant sealers contain additives that absorb and prevent the penetration of UV rays. Other measures like avoiding direct sunlight and using shades during peak hours may also help minimize the effects of UV rays on pavers.
3. Visible Damage
Over time, pavers become damaged from wear and tear due to constant exposure to harsh weather and other elements. For instance, excess foot or vehicle traffic and extreme weather conditions may result in chips and cracks on the paver's surface.
When applied correctly, sealers create a protective barrier on the paver's surface. Opting to reseal pavers regularly prevents damage. On the other hand, ignoring wear and tear may lead to more serious damage and subsequent costly repairs.
4. Discoloration
Pavers contain porous material that allows dirt and moisture to seep through and discolor easily. Once you notice any discoloration, try identifying the cause. Some of the common color stains and their possible causes include:
- Green stains from algae or mildew growth
- White or gray from mineral efflorescence
- Yellow from oil or grease stains
- Brown from rust stains
These signs of discoloration from a previously sealed paver may call for a fresh coat of sealer. Sealers then prevent stains from penetrating through the paver's surface. Paver sealers can also make cleaning any accidental spills much easier.
Choose Surface Logix
Pavers provide an important aesthetic appeal to any outdoor space. If pavers show signs of water seeping through, color fading, visible damage, and unsightly discoloration, though, consider resealing the pavers. Regular maintenance confers longer protection on the paver and minimizes costly repairs.
At Surface Logix, we provide extensive solvent-based color sealers to preserve driveways, patios, poolsides, and other hardscapes. Contact us today for superior sealer protection.