Why Should Pavers Be Sealed?

Paver sealing is essential because it acts as a protective shield against Brighton and Centennial’s harsh high-altitude climate, preserving your investment while keeping your hardscape looking brand new. Without sealant, pavers are porous materials that readily absorb moisture, stains, and UV rays, leading to rapid deterioration.

The Protective Benefits of Sealing

Applying a high-quality sealer provides multiple layers of defense for your driveway, patio, or walkway. The benefits include:

• UV Protection: Prevents premature fading and discoloration caused by intense solar exposure.
• Stain Resistance: Creates a barrier that repels oils, grease, and grime, making clean-up simple.
• Joint Sand Stabilization: Locks the polymeric sand in place to keep pavers stable and prevent shifting.
• Weed and Moss Prevention: Seals the gaps between pavers, eliminating the ideal environment for weeds and organic growth to take root.
• Enhanced Color: Deepens the natural tones of the stone or concrete for a rich, vibrant appearance.

Colorado-Specific Challenges

Living in Wheat Ridge presents unique obstacles for exterior surfaces. At 5,280 feet, the UV intensity is significantly higher than at sea level, which bleaches and degrades paver surfaces at an accelerated rate. Furthermore, our extreme freeze-thaw cycles cause water trapped inside unsealed pavers to expand and crack the material from within. Our frequent, gusty spring winds also strip away unsealed joint sand, leading to unstable surfaces. Regular sealing with Drift Exteriors ensures your pavers can withstand these environmental stresses.

Understanding Sealer Types

Not all sealers function the same. Penetrating sealers soak deep into the pores of the paver, offering invisible protection that keeps the material breathable. Film-forming sealers sit on the surface, providing a "wet look" or glossy finish that excels at repelling surface liquids and enhancing color saturation. Drift Exteriors helps you choose the right product based on your aesthetic goals and paver type.

The Cost-Benefit of Maintenance

Replacing a paver installation is a massive expense, often costing between $15 and $25 per square foot. In contrast, professional sealing typically costs between $2 and $4 per square foot and should be performed every 3 to 5 years. This proactive maintenance is a fraction of the cost of a full restoration. If you have a brand-new installation, we highly recommend scheduling your first sealing session within 60 days of completion. This "locks in" the factory finish before the harsh Lakewood elements can begin their work, ensuring your pavers stay beautiful and durable for years to come.

Learn more about our paver restoration and sealing.