Sealing concrete pavers is a vital step in maintaining their appearance and durability. At Spirit Sealers, we understand the importance of protecting your investment. Our range of sealing and cleaning products is specifically designed for the stone and tile industry, offering superior quality and performance.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of sealing concrete to enhance its durability and protect it from potential damage.

Pre-Sealing

Before sealing your concrete pavers, it’s essential to consider the environment in which they will be installed. In saltwater pools or harsh saltwater environments like seaside residences, we recommend using Spirit Premium Consolidator. This consolidator can be applied through various methods such as spraying, brushing, microfibre applicator, or dip sealing for complete consolidation. If Consolidator is not used, Spirit Pre Seal is an excellent alternative that provides added water resistance and prevents salt buildup within the pavers.

When working with shower cubicles, swimming pools, or using dark-colored grout on light-colored stone, it’s advisable to pre-seal at least the face and sides of the pavers. Complete coverage can be achieved by dip-sealing all six sides with Spirit Pre Seal. Remember to avoid stacking drying pavers against each other to allow proper air circulation and remove any excess sealer within 5 minutes.

Initial Cleaning and Grout Haze Removal

After laying, grouting, and washing the pavers, there may be residual grout haze that needs to be removed before sealing. It’s crucial to wait for the grout to harden sufficiently, typically 3-4 days, before attempting to remove the haze. During this time, it’s recommended to protect the floor and walls if other trades are still working in the area.

To effectively clean the pavers, you’ll need Spirit Neutral Cleaner, Spirit Doodlebug, a bucket, broom, mop, and clean water. Start by sweeping or vacuuming the area to remove any loose debris. Dilute 20 parts clean water to 1 part Spirit Neutral Cleaner and apply it to the cleaning area using a broom. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes, keeping it wet by adding more cleaner if needed. Scrub the area with a Spirit Doodlebug, which can be attached to a broom handle for convenience. Remove the solution with a dense mop and rinse the area with clean water. If necessary, a light dilution of Spirit HDC can be used for heavy grout haze, followed by a rinse with Spirit Neutral Cleaner. Avoid using acid-based cleaners unless specifically advised.

Sealing

Once the pavers are clean and dry, it’s time to apply the sealer. It’s recommended to use a breathable penetrating sealer that allows the pavers to release moisture. Before applying the sealer, it’s important to test it on a spare paver to ensure compatibility and desired results. For sealing concrete pavers, Spirit Premium Seal is the best choice, providing excellent protection. Spirit NPS and Spirit Water Based Premium Seal are also ideal options. If you have highly honed and polished finishes, Spirit Premium Seal and Spirit NPS are suitable choices. However, when using Spirit Colour Enhancer Pro, it’s crucial to test it beforehand as it may not react well with all concrete pavers. To apply the sealer, you’ll need a sealer, Spirit Microfibre Applicator, clean white rags, gloves, a respirator, and a solvent suitable tray for solvent-based sealers. Apply two coats of the sealer, allowing approximately 1 hour of drying time between coats. Follow the instructions on the product’s label carefully. Keep in mind that penetrating sealers will not prevent surface etching or scuffing, and extra care should be taken when using Spirit Colour Enhancer Pro to ensure excess sealer is properly removed.

Maintenance

Maintaining your sealed concrete pavers is essential to preserve their appearance and longevity. Regular cleaning with Spirit Neutral Cleaner is recommended to keep the pavers in pristine condition. It’s crucial to change the mop water every 10-20 square meters to prevent spreading dirt across the entire surface. For more thorough cleaning, periodic maintenance every 6-12 months may be necessary, depending on the level of traffic and wear. In such cases, Spirit HDC or Spirit Bright As can be used to remove stubborn stains and grime. Our specially formulated cleaners are designed to work effectively with concrete pavers, ensuring optimal results and minimizing the risk of damage.

Re-Sealing

Over time, weather conditions, high-pressure cleaners, and the use of alkaline, acid, or solvent-based cleaners can impact the performance of the sealer. It’s crucial to follow the appropriate Spirit Guide specific to your substrate to ensure the best protection for your sealed concrete pavers. The longevity of the sealer and its ability to provide adequate protection depend on four key factors:

  1. Using a premium quality sealer: At Spirit Sealers, all our sealers are of superior quality, ensuring excellent performance and durability.
  2. Proper application: Correct application techniques, including thorough cleaning and sufficient drying time, are essential for successful sealing. Avoid common mistakes such as sealing when it’s too hot or cold, failing to mop up excess sealer, or applying an inadequate amount.
  3. Location and traffic: Commercial areas with heavy foot traffic and frequent cleaning will require re-sealing more often than domestic areas. Outdoor spaces, high-traffic internal areas, and shower cubicles may also require more frequent re-sealing. If you’re unsure about the re-sealing frequency for your specific situation, don’t hesitate to contact Spirit Sealers for guidance.
  4. Floor maintenance: Regular cleaning with suitable cleaners is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sealer. Using improper cleaners can break down the sealer prematurely and potentially damage the pavers. Our recommended cleaners are specially formulated for the stone and tile industry, ensuring safe and effective maintenance of your concrete pavers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sealing concrete pavers is a critical step in protecting and enhancing their beauty and longevity. By following the guidelines and utilizing Spirit Sealers’ high-quality products, you can ensure the optimal performance and durability of your concrete pavers. Whether you’re working in a residential or commercial setting, our sealing and cleaning solutions are designed to meet your needs and provide long-lasting results. Remember, a well-maintained and properly sealed surface not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your pavers but also protects them from stains, damage, and the effects of harsh environmental conditions. Trust Spirit Sealers for all your concrete paver sealing needs, and enjoy beautiful and resilient surfaces for years to come.