Sealing your pavers is an essential step in maintaining their beauty and durability, but it’s easy to make mistakes if you’re doing it yourself. In Toms River, NJ, where weather conditions can be unpredictable, proper paver sealing is even more crucial. Let’s look at some of the most common mistakes homeowners make when sealing pavers and how you can avoid them to protect your investment.
1. Skipping the Cleaning Step
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is skipping the thorough cleaning step before applying the sealer. Toms River’s weather can lead to dirt, grime, and even algae building up on pavers. Sealing over these contaminants locks them in, which not only looks bad but also reduces the effectiveness of the sealant.
- Dirty pavers prevent the sealer from bonding properly.
- Skipping cleaning can lead to trapped stains and a dull appearance.
To avoid this, always pressure wash your pavers before sealing, or hire a professional like NJ Paver Sealing who will ensure your pavers are perfectly clean before sealing.
2. Using the Wrong Type of Sealer
Not all sealers are created equal. Many homeowners use a generic sealer that isn’t suitable for their specific paver material or the weather conditions in Toms River. Using the wrong type of sealer can lead to discoloration, peeling, or even damage to your pavers.
- Oil-based and water-based sealers work differently, and using the wrong one can harm your pavers.
- Some sealers provide better UV protection, while others are more suitable for high-traffic areas.
Choosing the right sealer is crucial. To avoid costly mistakes, consult with professionals like NJ Paver Sealing who know the best sealants for your pavers and the local climate.
3. Applying Too Much or Too Little Sealer
It’s easy to think that applying extra sealer will give your pavers more protection, but using too much can result in a sticky, uneven finish. On the flip side, applying too little won’t offer sufficient protection, leaving your pavers vulnerable to damage from Toms River’s rain and sun.
- Over-application can cause a cloudy appearance or bubbling on the surface.
- Under-application leaves your pavers exposed to water damage and fading.
4. Not Allowing Enough Drying Time
In a place like Toms River, with its fluctuating humidity levels, drying time is crucial when sealing pavers. Homeowners often rush the process, sealing pavers that are still damp or failing to wait long enough for the sealer to cure. This can lead to streaking, bubbling, or a poor bond between the sealer and the pavers.
- Sealing wet pavers traps moisture, which can lead to white streaks or damage.
- Always check the weather forecast and allow enough drying time between cleaning and sealing.
To avoid moisture-related problems, make sure your pavers are completely dry before applying the sealer.
5. Ignoring Joint Sand Replenishment
Joint sand plays an essential role in stabilizing your pavers, but many homeowners forget to refill the sand between the joints before sealing. In Toms River’s rainy climate, joint sand can easily wash away, causing your pavers to shift and become uneven.
- Missing joint sand makes your pavers prone to shifting and weed growth.
- Sealing without joint sand leaves gaps, which can lead to erosion and damage.
Always make sure to replace any missing joint sand before sealing.
Get Expert Paver Sealing in Toms River
Avoid these common paver sealing mistakes by trusting the experts at NJ Paver Sealing. Whether you need a fresh seal or a complete restoration, we’ve got you covered. Contact NJ Paver Sealing at 732-800-6085, visit our website, or check out our Google Maps listing to schedule your service today. Don’t let simple mistakes ruin your beautiful pavers, get it done right the first time!