Water or Solvent-based Sealers

admin_tropicalpaversealing • February 28, 2019

Easy Test to Determine Water or Solvent-Based Sealers

Have your pavers been previously sealed?  This is an easy test that you can perform before resealing an existing concrete surface. It is important to determine whether it was previously stained or sealed with a water or solvent-based sealer.  Tropical Paver Sealing  can help determine the type of sealer used, however, you can do this easy test yourself.

TEST:  Pour a quarter sized amount of Xylene on an area that still has the most sealer remaining such as a corner where there hasn’t been a lot of traffic or wear. Allow the Xylene to sit for approximately 15 seconds. Wipe off any excess. Wait a second or two then touch the area. If it is tacky or sticky, your pavers were sealed with a solvent-based sealer. If it is not tacky or sticky, your pavers were sealed with a water-based sealer.

The rule of thumb is that a solvent-based sealer can go over bare concrete or an existing surface previously sealed with a solvent-based sealer. It cannot be applied over any surface previously sealed with a water-based product.

On the other hand, water-based sealer can go over bare concrete as well as both water and solvent-based sealers.

If your pavers have been previously sealed, Tropical Paver Sealers can still seal your pavers. We seal with a commercial grade, state-of-the-art, environmentally safe water-based sealer. This sealer is designed to be used on wet surfaces so there is no need to put off your sealing job during Florida’s annual rainy season.

If you have questions about sealing your pavers, or would like a free estimate to have your brick, travertine or river rock sealed,  contact us. We look forward to making your pavers beautiful again.

  • What is the difference between a water-based sealer and a solvent-based sealer?

    Water-based sealers penetrate into the surface of the paver or travertine and create a barrier to protect it from absorbing liquids, dirt, and other contaminants. They are non-toxic, eco friendly, and enhance natural color tones without any change in texture. Solvent-based sealers form a film over the surface of the paver or travertine and work best to protect against oil, grease, and other contaminants. They can also darken the color of the paver or travertine, resulting in a more glossy finish. Both types of sealers offer protection from wear and tear and reduce staining caused by spills. 

  • When should I use a water-based sealant?

    Water-based sealants are best used when you want to maintain the natural look of the paver or travertine while increasing its resistance to water, dirt, and other contaminants. They also provide a matte finish that enhances natural color tones without adding any shine.

  • Which type of sealant is best for my pavers?

    The type of sealant you choose will depend on the desired results and the condition of the pavers. Generally, if you want to protect against oil or grease stains, a solvent-based sealant is best. However, if you are looking for protection from water, dirt, and other contaminants while preserving the natural look of your pavers, a water-based sealant is your best option. If you are unsure of which type to use, it’s always best to consult a professional. 

  • How do I know if my sealant was applied correctly?

    The best way to ensure that the sealant was applied correctly is to inspect your pavers or travertine after it has been sealed. Make sure there is an even, consistent coverage throughout the surface and that no puddling of sealer occurred. If any areas appear patchy or discolored, you may need to re-apply the sealant. Additionally, it’s important to check for any signs of damage or wear and tear that may have occurred during the sealing process. Always hire a professional for best results!

  • Is paver sealant expensive?

    Paver sealant is generally not very expensive, and the cost varies depending on the size of your project. For most residential projects, you can expect to pay up to a few dollars per square foot for a quality sealant.