Sometimes, the front path of a home provides the clearest sign that a house has fallen into disrepair. Delipidated paving stones with cracks and worn patches, overgrown with weeds, destroy the curb appeal. Homebuyers walking that path will have devalued the house before they even reach the front door.
Applying sealant to pavers is one way to protect the front path from the elements, but is it right for every homeowner? As New Again Pressure Washing considers both the advantages and disadvantages of paver sealing to help homeowners decide whether it is right for them.
Pros of Paver Sealers
Extending the Life of Pavers
Paver stones are durable, but changes in temperature, foot traffic, and infiltration of moisture and dirt will eventually cause them to wear, crack, and eventually fall to pieces. Paver sealant prevents dirt, water, and plant material from getting in, allowing them to last longer than they otherwise would.
Adding to Home Value
As part of a comprehensive exterior design plan, sealed pavers create a well-maintained look that enhances curb appeal, draws buyers in, and reassures them that the rest of the home is in good condition. The money spent on paver sealing can contribute to a return on investment when the time comes to negotiate a sale price.
Preventing Falls and Accidents
Uneven or broken paver stones are a hazard to children playing in the yard, older residents, people with disabilities, or people who text on their phones while walking. Sealing paver stones before they have a chance to wear, crack, and shatter, protects family and visitors alike.
Preventing the Growth of Unwanted Weeds and Grass
Sealant in the space between pavers prevents stray blades of grass, dandelions, and assorted weeds from growing between paver stones from the soil below. This gives the pathway a clear and tidy appearance.
Peace of Mind
Homeownership often brings with it a seemingly never-ending stream of repairs and chores. Sealing your paver stones now means you won’t have to worry about replacing cracked stones later. Owners of family homes and businesses can be sure that the property will still look good if they pass it on to someone else.
Cons of Paver Sealers
Harm to Plants and Wildlife
Some sealants contain chemicals that can be harmful to plants, animals, and the environment. Solvent-based sealants can emit fumes, while spray sealants can kill nearby plants. Recent investigations have shown that some types of sealants can accumulate in the body and cause harmful effects, including increased cancer risk. Be sure to talk to a professional paver sealing company about the chemicals they use to make sure they are safe for the lawn or garden.
Limitations on Sealant Lifespan
While pavers can last a long time if properly sealed, the sealant itself tends to degrade over time. Paver sealers last about four years on average, meaning that a homeowner will most likely have to re-apply sealant many times in the time that they own their homes, increasing the expense of owning pavers.
Added Expense
Each time a homeowner has to re-apply the sealant, they pay additional costs for labor and the sealant itself. This adds to the maintenance cost of walkways and driveways, although it could prevent a larger expense for repairing cracks in paver stones and replacing broken stones.
Paver Sealing Done Right By As New Again
As New Again Pressure Washing provides paver sealing painting services and cleaning services for roofs, siding, gutters, driveways, and more. They serve the Jacksonville, FL, and Augustine areas, as well as other nearby beachside communities. Call (904) 881-9743 for a free estimate today.
