We love Fort Lauderdale’s mild winters and sunny weather. It’s great for catching a tan but not for your exterior surfaces. So, how long does paver sealing last? You’re looking at three to five years when you work with Fort Lauderdale’s premier paver sealing company, The Clean Guys Paver Sealing.
Why invest in this service? Without a protective coating, the Florida climate is brutal on your pavers, leaching the life out of them and causing erosion.
Our services improve curb appeal and protect your surfaces from damage. They not only will look better, but they will last longer. Want to know how often you should seal your pavers in Fort Lauderdale? Read on to learn more and get maintenance tips.
Understanding Fort Lauderdale’s Climate and Its Impact on Paver Sealing
How does each sealant type stand up to weathering?
Climate Overview
Fort Lauderdale has high humidity and lots of rain. Being so close to the ocean means also dealing with the corrosive effects of salt air.
Effect on Pavers and Sealers
The weather reduces the durability of your surfaces in a few ways:
- Sun bleaches the color from pavers unless your sealant has built-in UV resistance.
- Salt air eats into the surface, causing pitting.
- High humidity lets algae and mold flourish. They exploit any tiny cracks in your surfaces and make them worse.
- Temperature fluctuations cause the sealant to expand and contract, which can lead to cracking.
- High moisture levels can seep under inflexible coatings, causing them to lift.
For all these reasons, you must choose your sealant and application method very carefully. We recommend water-based products that breathe in Florida’s subtropical climate and last longer.
Key Factors That Affect the Longevity of Paver Sealing
Now, let’s look at the coatings specifically. How long does paver sealing last? That depends on a few things.
Quality of Sealer
You should never cut corners when it comes to the products you use. Premium products are usually easier to apply and can stand up to harsh weather better.
You have a few choices:
- Water-based: This type is usually lower in volatile organic chemicals, so it’s easier on the environment. It also breathes better, which is important if you have moisture issues. However, you’ll need more frequent reapplication.
- Solvent-based: This type tends to have a heavier smell but dries pretty quickly. It lasts longer than water-based products but lifts if water gets in the underneath.
- Film-forming: This type sits on top of the surface instead of penetrating. It enhances the colors underneath and creates a glossy, wet look.
- Non-film forming: This type penetrates deep into the layers and looks more natural. It tends to last a little longer than the film-forming type.
Surface Preparation and Application Method
The best product in the world isn’t worth much unless you prepare the surface properly first. Each speck of dirt interferes with how well the sealant adheres, which is why it’s better to hire professionals.
We’ll clean the surface thoroughly using advanced equipment and products. Our technicians will also repair cracks and allow the surface to dry properly before applying the sealant.
A lot of homeowners learn how difficult the application is the hard way. By hiring us, you prevent application errors like bubbles and hazing. A professional seal will last the longest.
Traffic and Usage
How much you use the surface dictates how long the sealant lasts. The more foot or vehicle traffic there is, the more friction there is, speeding up wear and tear.
Maintenance Routine
Most of us seal our pavers because they’re easier to maintain. You still have to clean them regularly and check them periodically.
Average Lifespan of Paver Sealing in Fort Lauderdale
Now, let’s get to the basics. How long does paver sealing last in Fort Lauderdale? You’re looking at about three to five years for a typical residential surface. With high-traffic areas, you’re looking at about two to four years.
This depends on the:
- Climate
- Paver materials
- Sealer type
Proper Maintenance and Care Tips
How do you get the coating to last as long as possible?
Routine Cleaning
You should:
- Sweep the pavers every few days.
- Hose them down once a week or so using low pressure.
- Clean using a pH-neutral, non-abrasive cleaning agent as necessary.
- Spot-treat stains and spills as soon as possible.
Spot Treatment and Weed Control
Paver sealing stunts weed growth, but it won’t stop it completely. You should pull out any seedlings that come up quickly.
Re-Sealing Indicators
You’ll need to reapply the coating if you notice:
- Fading color
- A dull finish
- Water no longer beading on the surface
- Worn spots
DIY vs. Professional Sealing
Doing this job yourself won’t cost as much, but you’ll need more touch-ups. It’s also not as easy to get even results as you might think. Working with reputable professionals is more cost-effective in the long term.
Look for a contractor who is:
- Licensed and insured
- Experienced and highly-rated
- Willing to stand behind their work
Cost vs. Long-Term Value
You have to consider the value for the money when answering, “How long does paver sealing last?” If you work with professionals, your pavers last much longer, saving you on repairs and replacements going forward. It also helps you protect your property value.
You’ll pay $1.50-$3.50 per square foot depending on things like:
- Job complexity
- Surface preparation needs
- Type of sealant
Common Mistakes and How To Avoid Them
Here are some errors people make.
Applying Sealer on Damp Pavers
Fort Lauderdale’s humidity can cause moisture traps, making the surface cloudy.
Using Low-Quality Products
Cheap sealants don’t last long in the Florida sun and humidity.
Skipping Surface Preparation
You have to spend a fair amount of time preparing the surface for good adhesion.
Ready to Protect Your Investment? Schedule a Consultation With The Clean Guys Paver Sealing
Refresh your driveway or patio and save money in the long term. Call The Clean Guys Paver Sealing at 954-727-6809 and start enjoying the benefits today. How long does paver sealing last? Put us to the test and get great value for your money.
