Paver Sealing & Hardscape FAQ

Paver Sealing

What does paver sealing do?

Paver sealing puts a protective coating on concrete pavers that helps resist stains, slows fading from the sun and helps stabilize joint sand. It also makes routine cleaning easier.

What is the difference between wet look and natural finish sealer?

A wet look sealer deepens and enriches color with a satin to semi-gloss sheen, similar to pavers right after rain. A natural finish sealer protects with little visible change to the original matte appearance.

How often should pavers be resealed?

Many homeowners reseal every few years. The right interval depends on sun exposure, traffic, the sealer used and how the surface is maintained, so we recommend a schedule for your property.

Should pavers be cleaned and re-sanded before sealing?

Yes. Sealing works best on a clean, dry surface with full joints. Sealing over dirt, stains or low joints locks those problems in, which is why many homeowners choose our Wash, Sand and Seal service.

When is the best time of year to seal pavers in Rhode Island and Massachusetts?

Sealing needs dry weather and suitable temperatures, so in Rhode Island and Massachusetts it is generally done from late spring through early fall.

How soon can I use my patio or driveway after sealing?

Foot traffic is usually fine after several hours, and vehicles typically need longer. We give you exact guidance for the product used on your surface.

See paver sealing in Rhode Island or paver sealing in Massachusetts.

Wash, Sand & Seal

What is Wash, Sand and Seal?

It is our complete paver restoration: the pavers are deep cleaned, old joint material is flushed out, new polymeric sand is installed and activated, and a wet look or natural finish sealer is applied.

What is polymeric sand?

Polymeric sand is fine sand blended with binders. After it is swept into the joints, compacted and activated with water, it hardens to help stabilize the joints and resist weeds, ants and washout.

Will polymeric sand stop all weeds?

Properly installed polymeric sand greatly reduces weeds and ants in the joints, but no product makes a surface completely weed-proof.

Why do my paver joints keep washing out?

Loose sand washes out with rain, runoff and pressure washing, and drainage problems make it worse. Polymeric sand installed to the right depth and then sealed resists washout far better than loose sand.

How long does Wash, Sand and Seal take?

A typical job takes about two days: we wash the pavers, let them dry, then come back to sand and seal. Sanding and sealing can often be done in the same visit, but depending on the sand, the sealer and the weather, the sealer sometimes has to wait. Larger driveways and properties can take longer.

See Wash, Sand & Seal in Rhode Island or Wash, Sand & Seal in Massachusetts.

Masonry Repairs

What causes pavers to sink or heave?

Common causes are freeze-thaw cycles, poor drainage, tree roots, a weak base and failed edge restraint. We look for the cause so the repair lasts.

Can you match my existing pavers?

When we can reuse the original pavers we do. If replacements are needed, we look for the closest available match, though older pavers may have faded compared with new ones.

Should repairs be done before sealing?

Yes. Repairs should come first so the finished surface is level and the sealer covers the final layout.

Do you repair steps and retaining or garden walls?

Yes. We reset loose caps, treads and wall stones, rebuild loose brick or stone steps and repoint worn mortar joints where appropriate.

Can plow or snow blower damage be fixed?

Usually. Scraped or lifted paver edges and damaged borders can often be reset and reinforced.

See masonry repairs in Rhode Island or masonry repairs in Massachusetts.

Paver Care & Maintenance

How should I clean sealed pavers between visits?

Sweep regularly, rinse with a garden hose and use a mild cleaner and soft brush for spots. Avoid high-pressure washing, which can damage sealer and blow out joint sand.

What is the white haze on my pavers?

White haze is often efflorescence, natural salts carried to the surface by moisture. It is common on newer pavers and after wet seasons, and it should be treated before sealing.

How do I deal with oil or rust stains?

Wipe up spills quickly. Set-in oil, rust and leaf stains usually need targeted treatment, and results depend on the stain and how long it has been there.

Is road salt bad for pavers?

De-icing salt can contribute to surface wear and residue. Use it sparingly, consider sand for traction and rinse heavy salt buildup in spring.

How can I keep moss and weeds out of the joints?

Keep joints full, reduce standing water and trim back heavy shade where possible. Polymeric sand and sealing make moss and weeds much less likely.

For full restoration, see Wash, Sand & Seal in Rhode Island or Wash, Sand & Seal in Massachusetts.