The Effectiveness of Water-Based Paver Sealers

Water-Based Sealers

• A water-based sealer for pavers features emulsive particles mixed with regular water. When applied in liquid form, the emulsive particles sink into the porous paver and remain there once the water evaporates. The two other types of paver sealers are solvent-based sealers, which feature an emulsive material completely dissolved in a synthetic base, and coatings that rest on the surface of a paver without penetrating it.

Penetration

• One of the key differences between paver sealers that impacts overall effectiveness is the depth to which the sealer penetrates a concrete paver. Solvent-based sealers penetrate more deeply than water-based sealers. This only means that they protect deeper layers of the concrete. Water-based sealers offer excellent protection against fading and damage in an area that is closer to the paver's surface. Coatings, on the other hand, protect only the exposed top surface of the paver.

Benefits

• Because they penetrate pavers somewhat, water-based paver sealers offer a high degree of protection against cracking, but less protection against surface damage and fading. They have the added benefit of being environmentally acceptable. Some communities restrict the use of solvent-based sealers because of the environmental damage they can cause. Water-based sealers are safer environmental options that still protect pavers when applied according to manufacturer instructions.

Longevity

• Applying any type of sealer will extend the life of pavers. The type of sealant, along with the application process and environmental factors, affect how long the pavers last before cracking, pitting and fading. For example, pavers that are exposed to direct sunlight fade faster than those in partial or full shade, even with a water-based sealer applied. Likewise, harsh rain and ice can damage pavers prematurely. Applying a water-based sealer when temperatures are too high or low can reduce the degree of effectiveness. Commercial water-based sealers such as Invisoseal claim to protect pavers for as long as 10 years. Others require more frequent reapplication to keep pavers looking their best.