Some home maintenance tasks make sense, and some seem unnecessary. In this post, The Clean Guys Paver Sealing considers sealed vs. unsealed pavers so you can decide which option is best for you.
Most people go this route because it:
- Enhances paver appearance
- Reduces the need for maintenance
- Saves money by allowing the pavers to last longer
These are important protective factors considering how the Florida sun bleaches your exterior surfaces. Sealing brick pavers stops the humidity from getting in and allowing algae to bloom. It also prevents salt air and rain from eroding your exterior surfaces.
Learn more here from The Clean Guys Paver Sealing professionals, and then read, “How long does paver sealing last in Fort Lauderdale’s climate?”
Sealed vs. Unsealed Pavers – A Quick Comparison
Let’s go over the difference between the two:
- Sealed pavers: This is when you apply paver sealant to the surface. This either sits on the top for a glossy look and paver color enhancement or penetrates for a more natural finish. Both products provide water penetration protection.
- Unsealed pavers: These have no protection of any kind.
| Feature | Sealed Pavers | Unsealed Pavers |
| Durability | More resistant to water, stains, and erosion. Extends lifespan by protecting the surface. | More vulnerable to weather, staining, and surface wear over time. |
| Appearance | Enhances color, adds a glossy or matte finish, and can prevent fading. | Natural look, but colors may fade faster due to UV and exposure. |
| Cost | Higher upfront cost due to sealing products and labor. Needs resealing every two to three years. | Lower initial cost, but may require more frequent repairs or replacements long-term. Unsealed paver maintenance is more expensive. |
| Maintenance | Easier to clean and maintain; prevents weed and moss growth in joints. | Requires more frequent cleaning; more prone to weed, moss, and stain buildup. |
Why Sealed Pavers Are Ideal for Fort Lauderdale Homes
Now, let’s look at why applying a protective coating in Florida makes sense.
UV and Weather Protection
The sunny weather here in Fort Lauderdale is great for summer fun, but it is hard on your surfaces, with the rays bleaching the color quickly.
Add in the plentiful rain, and you have a recipe for staining and erosion. These factors all render the sealed vs. unsealed pavers debate moot because it’s clear you need a buffer against the elements.
Resistance to Mold, Mildew, and Efflorescence
Algae, mold, and mildew love living in Florida. If you live near the beach, you also must contend with the salt air that causes efflorescence on brick and concrete.
Sealing your pavers protects them from the humidity and prevents algae from expanding hairline fractures.
Enhanced Appearance and Longevity
You can choose a sealant that enhances the tones within brick, concrete, or stone to give a polished color pop. Opt for a natural sheen or wet look sealant that not only looks great but also provides a buffer, preventing excessive wear from foot and vehicle traffic.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Sealing Your Pavers
Now, let’s look at sealed vs. unsealed pavers by comparing the advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- Stain resistance
- Easier cleaning and maintenance
- Weed and pest prevention
- Longer lifespan
- Slip resistance (pavers become safer with the right coating)
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- You need to reseal every two to three years
- Some sealants may change the color or increase slipperiness
Mike Crimmins, the owner of The Clean Guys Paver Sealing, says, “The cost of sealing pavers seems high initially, but it pays for itself over time. The sealant prevents staining and provides a buffer against the environment. As a result, your pavers last a lot longer and look great doing so.”
What Happens if You Don’t Seal Your Pavers?
If you don’t seal your pavers:
- They’re more susceptible to staining, moss, weeds, and color fading
- You’ll need to deep clean them more often
- They won’t last as long, especially near the beach or in shaded areas
Real Costs of Sealing vs. Unsealed Pavers in Fort Lauderdale
Are you worried about the pricing? Let’s compare sealed vs. unsealed pavers in terms of the cost and see how both measure up.
Sealing Costs
You’re looking at $1.50 to $3 per square foot for resealing. You should budget at the upper end of the range for gloss finish upgrades and anti-slip additives and plan on re-sealing high-traffic areas every two to three years.
Unsealed Maintenance Costs
At first glance, it’s cheaper to leave off the coating, but you have to factor in that you’ll need to clean more often. The surface is also more likely to stain, which impacts your property’s curb appeal.
The elements will cause fading and erosion, meaning that you have to replace the surface earlier. This is not only expensive but also inconvenient.
5-Year Cost Comparison Table
Let’s go over some illustrative costs using a 500-square-foot patio as an example.
| Cost Factor | Sealed Pavers | Unsealed Pavers |
| Initial Installation | $5,750-$6,500 (Includes $750-$1,500 for sealing) | $5,000 |
| Resealing (every 2–3 years) | $750-$1500 x 2 = $1,500-$3000 | $0 |
| Cleaning and Maintenance | $100/year x 5 = $500 | $250/year x 5 = $1,250 |
| Repairs (minor fixes) | $100 (less wear and tear) | $500 (due to fading, erosion, weed growth) |
| Total Over 5 Years | $7,100-$10,100 | $6,750 |
If you reseal every few years, you can save yourself from having to re-pave, which saves you $5,000.
How To Choose the Right Paver Sealer or Pro in Fort Lauderdale
The results you get depend on the contractor you choose. You must:
- Look for ICPI certification and experience in coastal environments.
- Ask about sealant types, gloss level, and anti-slip options.
- Check reviews and their portfolio of before-and-after projects.
Explore our professional paver sealing services and see why your neighbors choose us for their paver sealing needs.
The Better Choice for Fort Lauderdale Homeowners
Now that you know the difference between sealed vs. unsealed pavers, it’s time to take action. Protect your exterior surfaces and boost curb appeal—get a free estimate by calling The Clean Guys Paver Sealing at 954-727-6809 today!
