As fall sets in here in Point Pleasant Beach, it’s time to think beyond pumpkin spice and leaf cleanup—it’s also time to prepare your pavers for winter. Many homeowners don’t realize that paver patios, walkways, and driveways are especially vulnerable during the colder months. The mix of freezing temperatures, moisture, and salt can wreak havoc on your paver system if it’s not properly maintained.
The good news? A little fall maintenance goes a long way. At NJ Paver Sealing, we’ve put together this simple, seasonal checklist to help you protect your outdoor space before winter rolls in.
Fall Paver Maintenance Checklist: 4 Steps to Winter-Ready Pavers
1. Clean Off Leaves, Dirt, and Debris
Your first step is a simple one—clear the surface.
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Sweep up leaves, sticks, and dirt that may have blown onto your patio or driveway.
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Rinse the area using a garden hose or gentle pressure washer.
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Remove stains caused by fallen leaves, oil drips, or rust before they become harder to clean after snow sets in.
Why this matters:
Debris traps moisture, which can freeze and cause stains or mildew buildup. Leaving organic material on the surface all winter can lead to permanent discoloration or slick, slippery areas.
2. Refill Missing Joint Sand
Joint sand isn’t just filler—it’s what holds your pavers locked tightly in place.
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Inspect the joints between each paver.
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If you see gaps or erosion, it’s time to re-sand those areas using polymeric or kiln-dried sand.
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Use a broom to sweep the sand into joints, then lightly water it to activate the bonding agents.
Why this matters:
Without joint sand, your pavers become unstable, allowing water, ice, and weeds to penetrate between the stones. This can cause shifting, heaving, or permanent misalignment.
3. Apply a Protective Paver Sealer
Once the surface is clean and your joints are filled, it’s time for the most important step: sealing.
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Choose a water-based, joint-stabilizing sealer designed for pavers.
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Apply when the temperature is consistently above 50°F and the pavers are completely dry.
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Let the sealer cure for 24–48 hours with no rain or foot traffic.
Or better yet—hire a professional like NJ Paver Sealing to handle the entire process safely and efficiently. See our sealing process here.
Why this matters:
Sealing acts like a weatherproof shield. It:
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Prevents water absorption (which leads to freeze-thaw cracks)
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Protects against salt stains and surface flaking
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Holds joint sand firmly in place
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Enhances and preserves the color of your pavers
4. Inspect for Cracks, Shifting, or Damage
Take a close look at the condition of your pavers:
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Are there any cracks, chips, or loose stones?
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Is water pooling in certain areas after rain?
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Are the edges still even and level?
If you notice any damage, it’s best to address it now—before ice and snow make it worse. At NJ Paver Sealing, we can repair and restore your patio before sealing to ensure maximum protection and longevity.
Why Fall Is the Best Time for Paver Maintenance
Fall gives you the ideal window to prepare your pavers for the harsh conditions of winter. It’s dry, the temps are just right, and it allows your sealer enough time to cure properly before the first frost.
Plus, maintaining your pavers now means:
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Less spring cleanup
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Fewer costly repairs
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Longer-lasting pavers that look great year-round
Let NJ Paver Sealing Get Your Patio or Driveway Ready for Winter
Don’t wait until your patio is covered in snow and ice. Take proactive steps this fall to extend the life of your pavers and avoid expensive damage come spring.
At NJ Paver Sealing, we specialize in:
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Professional paver cleaning
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Sand joint restoration
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High-performance sealing
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Full patio or driveway inspections
Call us today at 732-800-6085 to book your fall paver maintenance service, or visit our website to request a free estimate. You can also find us on Google Maps to see our service area.
A little fall prep now can save your patio later. Let us help you seal in peace of mind.