When choosing the best wet look paver sealer, it is important to consider what the sealer will be used for. Some sealers are better at repelling water while others are better at preventing staining. It is also important to consider how easy the sealer is to apply and whether it is environmentally friendly. The best wet look paver sealer should repel water and prevent staining. It should also be easy to apply and environmentally friendly.
What is Paver Sealer?
The finest paver sealers keep stones in place, inhibit erosion at joints and repel stains and UV rays — all qualities that preserve the pavers’ high-quality look. Sealers dry to a variety of finishes, including wet or high-gloss, matte or satin. They protect the substrate by penetrating deep and filling pores, holes and cracks while keeping dirt, insects and other debris from settling into the stone or brick. They also prevent sand loss from the joints and grease, oil or gas from accumulating.
Paver Sealers Are Available in Two Types: Solvent and Water-Based
Solvent-Based
Acrylic/polymer blends are often used to provide a solvent-based sealer with a thickness and coating level that varies depending on the proportion of solids. Solvent-based sealers have a thicker, higher gloss appearance than water-based sealers.
Solvent-based sealers contain a high amount of VOCs. They dry to a wet surface and have a distinct odor. Cleanup is more difficult. If any sealer is left over after the job, it must be sprayed back into the original canister and resealed on the pour spout. Because xylene dissolves chemicals that water cannot remove, add it to any surplus sealer. In accordance with local or municipal waste management rules, dispose of rags and extra solvent carefully.
Water-Based
Water-based sealers, like solvent-based sealers, are composed of acrylic/polymers. They differ in one significant aspect: the polymers are dispersed within water molecules. The water molecules begin to evaporate due to the application of a water-based sealer to the pavers, which causes the polymer particles to cluster together. As the water evaporates away, the polymer chains begin to cross-link or bond with one another.
Water-based sealers have low VOCs and are easy to apply and clean up. These characteristics make them more user and environmentally friendly than their solvent-based counterparts.
Wet Look vs. Dry Look
There are various finishes available for paver sealers. Although the matte finish will not change the appearance of the pavers, it will nevertheless protect them from moisture and keep them looking great. However, you may also choose the wet or shiny look. Wet look sealants offer a higher level of protection and improved aesthetics.
Aspects of a Great Wet Look Paver Sealer
A sealer with a high amount of the solid component of acrylic creates a gleaming or glossy finish. This form of finish darkens worn pavers, making them seem wet, while also adding a gleaming sheen. A high-gloss sealer may enhance the natural reds and brown hues present in most brick pavers. Depending on the percentage of solids included, the higher the gloss level will be.
Breathability
The effectiveness of a sealer is measured by its breathability. Breathability refers to the stonework’s capacity to allow moisture vapor to flow through it after sealing. Moisture is less likely to be trapped beneath the surface if a sealer is permeable.
Life Expectancy
The longest-lasting paver sealers are those that last three to five years. However, factors like maintenance, traffic and weather can have an effect on the sealant’s longevity. They might reduce the pavers’ usable life span.
Penetration
Penetrating sealers are surface-applied materials that fill any gaps or other voids in the substrate material and protect it from dirt, particles or insects.
Non-Slip
Consider the sealant’s slip when selecting one. In locations near pools or other high-traffic areas, non-slip, breathable paver sealers are a popular option. A high-gloss sealant may be appropriate for low-traffic regions with aesthetic appeal, such as a retaining wall.
When dry, some paver sealers have a “slippery-when-wet” appearance. Increase traction in a high-foot-traffic location by applying a non-slip additive before applying the paver sealer. Non-slip additives, which are only compatible with film-forming sealers, are most effective when applied on a second coat.
The Best Wet Look Paver Sealer
DRYLOK®’s WetLook Clear High Gloss Penetrating Sealer checks all the boxes when it comes to great looks, easy application, low VOCs and easy cleanup.
It has the highest solids of all the clears and will offer the most protection. It is a non-yellowing, water-based sealer formulated for use on horizontal and vertical masonry surfaces where a high gloss, wet look finish is desired.
This product works on terrazzo, slate, concrete, masonry and Chattahoochee stone.
Trust in DRYLOK for All of Your Masonry Repair and Care Needs
We provide solutions for both DIYers and professionals, as well as everyday homeowners. Whether you’re sealing a patio, painting a garage floor or waterproofing your basement walls, we can help you get the tools you need to prepare the surface, repair cracks and holes and apply the final finish coat that will make your project shine.
You can be confident that when you use DRYLOK products, you’ll be providing high-quality solutions at an affordable price. To locate a retailer near you, contact us today.
