Paving your driveway or other exterior surfaces is a smart move and will instantly improve curb appeal and usability. The downside is that Sarasota’s unique coastal climate takes a toll on your pavers. The sun bakes them and leaches the color while the rain erodes them.
Which means that sealing them is another smart move. But do you use a water-based or solvent-based sealer? Considering how many products there are on the market, this is just one of the overwhelming choices you need to make.
Make your life easier by calling Patrick’s Paver Sealing, the go-to expert paver sealing company in Sarasota. Learn more about which product is greener and which lasts longer by reading on.
Why Sealing Pavers is Crucial in Sarasota
The Florida sunshine, heat, and high humidity make a great combination for lazy days at the beach, but they also make it easy to maintain a lush garden. Unfortunately, it also means that you need to take extra steps to protect your exterior surfaces.
The heat can crack pavers, while the sun causes them to fade. The rainfall erodes and pits the surface, while the humidity paves the way for an algae problem.
It’s not just the natural environment that’s problematic. Heavy traffic can cause cracks and potholes in your driveway while chlorine spills can damage your pool deck.
It’s enough to make you want to wrap your surfaces in bubble wrap. Fortunately, you don’t have to take this inconvenient step. Sealing the concrete, brick, or stone gives you long-lasting protection that enhances durability.
The right product cuts your surface’s permeability to zero, making it easier to maintain.
Which Is Better: Solvent-Based or Water-Based?
Now we get to the crux of the matter: what product should you choose? Is a water-based or solvent-based sealer better for you? The answer depends on your goals and needs:
- Water-Based: This eco-friendly solution with low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) is safer for surfaces your kids play on. We recommend it because it breathes well in the Sarasota humidity, reducing moisture issues. It comes in a natural or satin finish and the curing time tends to be shorter.
- Solvent-Based: Want deeper penetration and color enhancement? If you want the longest-lasting results and a gorgeous wet-look finish, this may be right for you. You get better penetration with these products.
Still unsure which to choose? Most Sarasota homeowners choose water-based finishes for more contemporary homes. Those with traditional designs often prefer solvent-based finishes for bright colors.
Both products withstand the salt air and sand that’s so common near the coast, but we understand why it’s difficult to choose. Why not schedule your free consultation, and we’ll advise you?
How Long Does Each Type of Sealer Last on Pavers?
No matter which product you choose, you’ll need to budget for resealing every two to three years. Solvent-based products tend to outlast their water-based counterparts by a year.
Sarasota’s harsh climate and heavy traffic can impact the results you achieve, but there’s a lot that you can do to improve these numbers.
You should start with a professional installation by a reputable company to ensure you get the right product. Then, you should clean the surface gently, without abrasive or harsh chemicals. You usually only need plain water.
Finally, you should schedule resealing every few years to maintain the protection.
Cost Comparison: Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Maintenance
Here’s one area where you don’t pay a premium for an eco-friendly product. It’s worth looking at the costs of a water-based or solvent-based sealer.
You’ll typically pay less for the former because it’s a lot easier to ship. We dilute it with water, which means the manufacturers can send it out in a more concentrated form. Therefore, one tin goes a lot further than a solvent-based product.
The tradeoff is that you’ll have to reseal in one to two years instead of two to three years. If you have a very high-traffic area, investing in a solvent-based product might be more cost-effective.
When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, both products only require the use of plain water.
Why not speak to our friendly team and see what they suggest for your property? They’ll give you a free estimate for both options so you can compare them or get an answer to, “How much does it cost to strip pavers in Sarasota?”
Eco-Friendly Choices and Common Mistakes When Selecting a Paver Sealer in Sarasota
Now you know a little more about the differences between each product. Let’s look at some common mistakes people make when selecting a paver sealer:
- Choosing the cheapest option: If you’re looking for maximum durability, you need the right product for your property. This sometimes means spending a bit more; However, you’ll save money in the long run.
- Going the DIY route: It’s tempting to buy a kit from the hardware store. The problem is that these products last about six months, assuming you get maximum adhesion. It also seems a lot simpler than it is. Getting an even finish without bubbles requires extensive cleaning and preparation, and most homeowners don’t have the time or tools.
- Using incompatible products in high-traffic areas: If you’re dealing with several cars or a lot of foot traffic, you need the right protection. You can save money by choosing a cheaper product initially, but be prepared to reseal more quickly than you should.
- Forgetting about VOCs: Water-based sealants hardly smell compared to their solvent-based counterparts. This means less off-gassing which is better for the environment and your family’s health.
- Applying a solvent-based sealer over a water-based one: You’ll never get optimal adhesion this way. Also, the water-based product expands and contracts, which can cause cracks in the solvent-based layer.
Don’t become a cautionary tale; speak to us.
Making the Right Choice: Protecting Your Pavers in Sarasota
Need help deciding between a water-based or solvent-based sealer? Do you want an eco-friendly option or to roll the dice for a longer life span? Call Patrick’s Paver Sealing at 941-799-1571 to discuss your options.
