Water based concrete or water based paver sealers are the best choice for sealing pavers, whether it's concrete or paver, and by water based we don't mean water that's just water. There is a solvent-based option in water based paver sealers, but water-based is the way to go.
While water-based sealers may not last as long as solvent-based, they are a significantly lower-risk alternative compared to the chemical sealers. Water-based acrylic sealers can be applied outdoors or indoors, as there are no harmful fumes to threaten ones health.
Generally, if you want to protect against oil or grease stains, a solvent-based sealant is best. However, if you are looking for protection from water, dirt, and other contaminants while preserving the natural look of your pavers, a water-based sealant is your best option.
Water-based sealers are a good choice when you are looking for a low-VOC, high-performance concrete sealer that is durable and easy to work with, but without the odor and cleanup issues associated with solvent-based sealers.
Water-based paints has lower VOC levels, reduced odour and more environmentally friendly. Solvent-based paints can be thinned with turpentine, white spirit or other thinners as required. Water-based paints can be thinned with water and equipment can also be cleaned with water, reducing the need for thinners.
Ultimately, you can expect to enjoy between three and five years of protection from a high-quality sealer. With that said, a big part of answering the question, “How long does paver sealer last?” will depend on environmental factors such as weather and foot traffic.
Acrylics. Acrylic paver sealers, either solvent- or water-based, offer the most comprehensive ultraviolet (UV) resistance. Acrylic sealants can be breathable, depending on their solid content.
Solvent-based sealers will generally darken your concrete more than a water-based sealer. This can be ideal when you have a decorative effect you are trying to achieve, but water-based sealers can give a more natural appearance to your concrete. This is ideal when working with uncolored gray concrete.
Using a nap roller for sealer application will take several times longer than using a paver sealer sprayer and joint stabilization is difficult to achieve. Spraying is the preferred method of applying water based paver sealers as it allows enough sealer to get into the joints.
Oil-based: Oil-based sealers last longer, but they have a strong smell and may leave a sticky residue behind. Penetrating: Penetrating sealer seeps into the granite's pores to protect it from the inside out. Water-based: This type of sealer evaporates faster than other granite sealers and doesn't have a strong odor.
Fall or spring is a great time of the year to seal pavers. Cooler weather allows the sealer to penetrate into the pavers unhindered. Pavers will have an adequate amount of protection for when it's time to seal again. Make sure to keep leaves and other debris off the pavers while they are drying to avoid blemishes.
When first applied, it has a strong odour, so ventilate the area well. This caulk is water resistant and not waterproof. It can be difficult to apply smoothly.
Acrylic paint, like latex paint, is made of acrylic resin. The difference is that, while latex is water-based, acrylic is chemical-based. The chemicals allow the paint to expand and contract with the weather and temperature, making it a good choice for home exteriors.
The only way a solvent based acrylic sealer can be applied to stamped concrete previously sealed with a water based acrylic is if the water based acrylic sealer has been completely removed. Water based acrylics will provide a low to high gloss finish without enhancing or darkening the color of the concrete.
If it was a water-based sealer, then you can safely reseal using either a solvent-based or water-based sealer. If a solvent-based sealer was originally used, you'll want to reseal using a solvent-based sealer. A water-based sealer cannot be applied on top of a solvent-based sealer.
Water-based paver sealers can be dry to the touch in as little as 3-6 hours, but as with the other paving sealers covered in this guide, we recommend you allow for a more extended period of drying time to let the sealer fully harden. Wait at least 12 hours before walking on the surface and 24 before driving.
Solvent & Water Base Sealer Remover
GATOR SEALER STRIPPER is extremely effective for removing sealer from concrete paver or stone. It is a paste, it is easily applied with a brush, or roller. GATOR SEALER STRIPPER is formulated to remain wet and effective over extended periods.
Brick pavers absolutely, 100% need to be re-sanded prior to sealing. The sand in the brick paver joints serves MANY integral purposes. Keeps joints stable, pavers level,and fills the void between pavers to keep them from becoming loose and wobbly.
You pressure clean the pavers, re-sand the paver joints and then apply two coats of your favorite paver sealer and the job was complete.
Acrylic Concrete Sealers: Acrylic sealers last 1-3 years before they need to be re-coated. Epoxy Coatings: Epoxy coatings last 5-10 years before they need to be re-coated. Urethane Coatings: Urethane coatings last 5-10 years before they need to be re-coated.
However, any sealed concrete can be slippery when wet, and while water based sealer is less slippery than solvent based, you can also use the Clear grip or Top Shield with it to ensure extra traction where needed.