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How to seal pavers

Clean and dry newly sealed pavers

Overview

Sealing pavers is a great way to protect them from stains, weather damage, and general wear and tear. Whether you're working with newly laid pavers or refreshing an existing surface, this guide will take you through the steps to achieve a professional finish.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Clean the pavers

Before sealing, a thorough paver cleaning is essential. If you're sealing freshly laid pavers, start by sweeping away any loose dirt and debris, then use a pressure washer to remove any embedded dust or grime. For existing pavers, an outdoor cleaner will help lift stubborn stains, moss, and built-up dirt. A clean surface is crucial, as it ensures the paver sealer bonds properly. Once the pavers are cleaned, rinse the area again with a pressure washer and allow them to dry completely.
Clean the pavers to remove any loose dirt and debris

2Check for moisture

Sealing damp pavers can lead to poor adhesion and an uneven finish. Before applying the sealer, check for moisture using a moisture meter. If you don’t have one, an easy alternative is the plastic sheet test. Tape a 300x300mm square of plastic to the surface and leave it for two hours. If no condensation forms underneath, the pavers are dry and ready for sealing.
Check for moisture to measure the moisture level

3Wash and dry the pavers

Once you’ve confirmed the pavers are free of moisture, give them one final rinse with a pressure washer to remove any remaining dust or cleaning residue. Allow the pavers to dry completely before moving on to sealing, as even a small amount of moisture can prevent the sealer from bonding properly.
Wash and dry the pavers using a pressure washer

4Apply the sealer

Once the pavers are fully dry and prepped, it's time to apply the sealer. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific preparation requirements. Pour the sealer into a paint tray if using a roller, or into a pump sprayer for easy application. Start at one end of the area and work systematically to ensure an even coat. If using a paint roller, work in straight lines to create a smooth, professional finish. A pump sprayer is ideal if there’s sand between the pavers, as it prevents the roller from disturbing the joints. Be sure to avoid puddles and spread the sealer evenly across the surface.
Apply the sealer on the pavers

5 Allow to dry and apply a second coat

Let the first coat dry completely before applying another layer. This usually takes a few hours, but always check the product’s instructions for specific drying times. Applying a second coat enhances durability and helps bring out the natural colours of the pavers, giving them a rich, polished look. Once the final coat is dry, your pavers will be well-protected and looking fresh.

To maintain the finish, avoid walking on the sealed surface until it has fully cured. Over time, pavers may need resealing, so consider applying a fresh coat every few years to keep them looking their best.

Apply a second coat of sealer to pavers

6Now that you’ve sealed pavers…

Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.