Block Paving Maintenance Advice for Block Paving Sealers

At Block Paving Maintenance we have built up an extensive knowledge and expertise in the application of many different types of sealers to many different types of surface. Provisionally starting in block paving sealing and driveway sealing the market has grown substantially and there are now a variety of uses for sealers.

Block paving sealing or driveway sealing may no longer be the specific function for many sealers but their primary purpose still remains the same and which can be identified as the following:

·         Jointing sand stabilization.

Stabilizing the joint sand prevents its erosion by the elements such as wind and rain, manual methods such as sweeping or washing or by its removal by pests such as ants or rodents undermining block paving. Sealing the joint sand increases the structural integrity and therefore the strength of any sealed block paving.

·         Eliminates weed growth and reduces colonization by algae and moss.

With no ability for joint sand to be removed there is little provision for voids to develop that will harbor and encourage weed growth and the collection of detritus that will feed the weeds. This will also provide a smaller foot print for moss and algae to adhere to.

·         Reduces the undermining of blocks by invertebrates and pests.

With the joint sand around the blocks being sealed any pests find it  more difficult to establish themselves by undermining the paving.

·         Protects against engine and fuel oils spillages and most chemicals.

The protective seal on the surface of the blocks prevents fuel oils and chemical spills from working their way in the block structure and can be simply washed away after sitting on the surface.

• Reduces efflorescence.

With the sealing on the blocks it prevents the ingress of water that will dissolve soluble salts in the blocks. This would then gradually work its way to the surface where the water will evaporate leaving a white salt on the paving.

·         Offers surface uv protection and weather resistance.

The varnish like sealing coat applied to the top of the blocks will help reduce any UV degradation as well that caused by other elements such as the wind and rain.

·         Enhances colour.

The sealing coat will enhance but not change the colour of the block underneath the protective coat unless the sealant is colour tinted itself. Specific sealers are used for colour tinting decorative concretes.

·         Allows for the ease of future cleaning.

The very nature of a protective coat sealing the blocks and jointing sand allows by its very nature for ease of future cleaning.

With so many uses for block paving sealer it is important to ensure the correct application for sealing the correct type of paving. Different sealers are required to be applied for different surfaces,

There are sealers suitable for sealing:

·         Block paving.

·         Clay paving.

·         Natural stone,

·         Slate.

·         Sandstone.

·         Marble.

·         Travertine.

·         Terracotta.

·         Flagstone.

·         Imprinted concrete.

·         Concrete.

·         Roof tiles.

·         Tarmac.

·         Wood.

·         Ceramic tiles.

The list is potentially endless and care should be taken in the choice of the correct product for the correct job. If in doubt seek professional advice or the recommendations of the manufacturer should be sought.

Remember At Block Paving Maintenance we have built up an extensive knowledge and expertise in the use of all types sealers form what was once originally block paving sealing and driveway sealing through to pattern imprinted concrete and tarmac sealers and restorers.