How To Seal Block Paving

If you’re considering block paving, you’re probably wondering if you need to seal it – whether you’re attempting it yourself or hiring a professional. There are many benefits when choosing to seal block paving, not only will it ensure that your paving lasts a long time, but it will also protect your investment in your property by shielding it from the elements.

Other advantages of sealing block paving:

• Prevents the growth of algae
• Protects the surface of the paving from sealing
• Reduces weed growth
• Strengthens paving by binding jointing sand
• Prevents fading and keeps colour looking vibrant

Using a quality sealant, such as the range from Resiblock, will also prolong the life of your block paving. Resiblock products are UV resistant and penetrate the blocks deeper to reduce the chance of abrasion.

In this guide, we’re going to look at how to seal block paving using Resiblock block paving sealer. Available in both natural and gloss finish, it’s easy to find the right match for your property at BC Profiles.

Remember, if in doubt – always consult with a professional before starting your project.

What You Need:

• Pressure Washer
• Kiln Dried Sand
• Resiblock Sealer
• Brush

Step One: Thoroughly clean your block paving with a pressure washer. It’s important that you remove all traces of weeds, lichen, algae stains and any other marks before you begin the project.

Step Two: Once clean, wait until the entire area is completely dry (fingers crossed for no rain!)

Step Three: Refill the block paving joints with kiln dried sand.

Step Four: Check that there is no excess sand on the driveway.

Step Five: Check the application instructions on the product before applying your Resiblock sealer to the area using a brush, roller or squeegee.

Step Six: Wait for the first coat to dry before applying the second coat of your Resiblock sealer.

Question: Can You Use A Setting Sand On Block Paving?

Answer: Yes! 

Setting sand can either be swept or poured into the joints of the paving before applying water to saturate it. Sika Setting Sand is a great product for this as it doesn’t shrink or crack over time and is resistant to weeds. 

How to seal sandstone

As sandstone is porous in nature, it can be very easy to stain and difficult to seal! If you’ve used sandstone paving on a patio or driveway, we’re going to look at how to seal sandstone, properly.

What You Need:

• Oil Free Detergent
• Scrubbing Brush
• Sandstone Sealer
• Dry Sponge
• Mop

Step One – Clean the Sandstone

It’s important to make sure that sandstone is free from dust and oil before attempting to seal it. If you don’t, you could end up with a bad finish! Use an oil-free detergent and warm water and use a scrubbing brush to scrub down each of the paving slabs. Allow the sudsy mixture to remain on the pavement for around 30 minutes, then rinse with clean water. Allow to dry before continuing with the sealing.

Step Two – First Sealing

Ideally, you will clean and seal the sandstone before it is installed to avoid any spills or stains ruining them. To seal, pour the sealer into a clean spray bottle and spray each of the paving slabs with it. Wait a few minutes and then wipe them down with a dry sponge, repeat this process one more time before allowing the sandstone pavers to dry overnight.

Step Three – Second Seal

Once the initial sealing process is completed and you have installed your sandstone, it’s time to add more sealant to finish the job. Instead of using a spray bottle this time, pour the sealant into a clean bucket and use a mop to carefully spread it all across the sandstone paving. Allow this to dry overnight before applying a second coat in the same manner.

Sealing Driveways

If you are considering sealing your tarmac driveway, you can use a similar process. Start by pressure washing the tarmac clean, wait for it to dry, then apply the sealant in the same way as the above.

There you have it, your block paving should be looking as good as new and ready to face anything that gets thrown at it. If you have any questions about the Resiblock range or further tips on how to seal block paving, get in touch with one of the BC Profiles team today.