Question 1

How long does professional paver sealer last in New Brunswick?

Accepted Answer

In our experience with Fredericton's climate, a high-quality paver sealing application typically lasts between 2 to 4 years. The exact lifespan depends on several factors, including the amount of foot or vehicle traffic the area receives, its exposure to direct sunlight, and the severity of our winter freeze-thaw cycles. For high-traffic driveways, we often recommend re-application every 2-3 years to maintain optimal protection. For less-trafficked patios or walkways, you can often go 3-4 years. We use commercial-grade sealants designed for harsh weather, which offer significantly better durability than DIY products. Regular cleaning and prompt removal of spills will also extend the life of the protective coating.

Question 2

Will sealing make my pavers slippery when wet?

Accepted Answer

This is a common and important concern. We specifically use sealants that contain a non-slip polymer additive to maintain or even improve the traction of the surface. While a high-gloss, wet-look sealer can appear very smooth, the products we apply are engineered for safety and will not create a hazardous, slippery surface when wet. We avoid thick, film-forming sealers that can become slick, especially in Fredericton's rainy or icy conditions. Safety is a top priority in our paver sealing process, and we ensure your walkway, pool deck, or driveway remains safe for use year-round. We can also add a specialized aggregate to the sealer for extra grip in critical areas.

Question 3

What is the best time of year to seal pavers in Fredericton?

Accepted Answer

The ideal window for paver sealing in the Fredericton area is from late spring to early fall, typically May through September. The process requires a period of dry weather with moderate temperatures, ideally between 10°C and 30°C, for the sealer to cure properly. We need at least 24 hours of dry conditions after the application. Attempting to seal pavers when it's too cold, too hot, or with rain in the forecast can lead to the sealer failing, blushing (turning cloudy), or not adhering correctly. We monitor the local forecast closely to schedule your project during an optimal weather window to ensure a durable and long-lasting finish.

Question 4

Can you remove oil stains and efflorescence before sealing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. Proper surface preparation is the most critical step of our paver sealing service. We use specialized, professional-grade cleaners and degreasers to treat and lift oil, grease, and rust stains. For efflorescence, the white, salty deposits that can appear on pavers, we use a specific acidic cleaner designed to dissolve it without damaging the paver surface. Removing these blemishes before sealing is essential, as the sealer would otherwise trap them underneath, making them permanent. Our meticulous cleaning process ensures a pristine surface, allowing the sealer to penetrate and bond effectively for a uniform appearance.

Question 5

What is the difference between a wet-look and a natural-look sealer?

Accepted Answer

The primary difference is aesthetic. A natural-look sealer is a penetrating product that soaks into the paver to protect it from within, without changing its appearance or texture significantly. It provides a flat, matte finish. A wet-look sealer, on the other hand, is a film-forming sealer that creates a protective layer on the surface course. It darkens the pavers and provides a satin or semi-gloss sheen, similar to how they look when wet. This type of paver sealing enhances and enriches the colors of the stone. Both provide excellent protection; the choice really comes down to your personal preference for the final look of your hardscape.

Question 6

Why is polymeric sand so important for paver joints?

Accepted Answer

Polymeric sand is a game-changer for the longevity and stability of interlocking pavers. Unlike regular sand, it contains a polymer binder that is activated with water. Once cured, it hardens to form a firm, flexible joint that locks the pavers in place and prevents them from shifting. This is crucial for maintaining a level surface. Its second major benefit is preventing problems. The hardened joint creates an effective barrier that stops weeds from growing and prevents ants from creating nests between your pavers. It also resists erosion from rain and pressure washing, so you are not constantly sweeping sand back into the joints. Proper paver sealing protects this sand.

Question 7

How soon can I walk or drive on my newly sealed pavers?

Accepted Answer

Curing times can vary slightly based on the specific product used, as well as the temperature and humidity on the day of application. As a general rule, we advise that the sealed surface is ready for light foot traffic after 24 hours. We strongly recommend waiting at least 48 to 72 hours before driving a vehicle on a sealed driveway or parking any heavy items like patio furniture on the surface. This allows the sealer to fully cure and harden, creating the strongest possible protective bond. We will provide you with specific instructions for your project on the day of the paver sealing service to ensure the best possible long-term results.

Question 8

Do you also offer hardscaping or asphalt paving services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are a full-service paving contractor. Our paver sealing service is a component of our broader hardscaping and paving offerings. We handle everything from new brick paver installation for patios and walkways to complete asphalt paving for residential driveways and commercial parking lots. If during our assessment we find that your pavers are beyond the help of sealing due to a failing base, we can provide solutions for repair or replacement. We also offer related services like asphalt milling and the construction of retaining walls to provide a complete solution for our clients' outdoor spaces in Fredericton. Our expertise covers the full lifecycle of your paved surfaces.

Paver Sealing in Fredericton

About Our Paver Sealing Services in Fredericton

Our Paver Sealing Process

Surface Preparation

Joint Re-Sanding

Sealer Application

Curing & Final Check

Why Choose Us for Paver Sealing?

How Much Does Paver Sealing Cost in Fredericton?

Recent Paver Sealing Projects in Fredericton

Paver Sealing FAQ in Fredericton