How to Seal Exterior Stones

Sealing exterior stone pavers extends their longevity.

Distinguished by their indisputable strength and versatility, exterior stone pavers embellish patios, walkways, courtyards and driveways. Their expansive variety of decorative colors and shapes compliment any residential property. Although exterior stone pavers are low maintenance, they require regular sealing for protection against discoloration, erosion, rust and stains. Stone is naturally porous and, if left unsealed, becomes dingy over time. Sealers revive a stone's natural colors as it ages and preserve its appearance. Seal exterior stone pavers every other year using basic techniques.

Things You'll Need

• Broom
• 1 tsp. hand dish soap
• Pail
• Non-metal scrub brush
• Garden hose
• Stone sealer
• Paint stir stick
• Paint roller tray
• Long-handled roller brush

Instructions

1. Clean the stone pavers before sealing them. Begin by sweeping the stones to remove dirt, leaves and other loose debris.

2. Combine 1 tsp. of hand dish soap with 1 gallon of clean water in a pail. Scrub the dishwashing solution onto the stone pavers using a non-metal scrub brush. Remove all oil, grime and stubborn stains from the pavers.

3. Rinse the stone pavers thoroughly with clean water. Let the pavers air-dry completely.

4. Mix the stone sealer thoroughly using a stir stick. Use a sealer recommended by the stone manufacturer or installer. Pour the mixed sealer into a paint roller tray.

5. Dip a long-handled roller brush into the stone sealer. Brush the sealer evenly onto the clean stone pavers, starting at the far edge of the patio, walkway or driveway. Apply the sealer according to the sealer manufacturer's directions.

6. Continue brushing the first coat of sealer onto the surface until the stones are thoroughly coated. Let the stone sealer dry 24 hours.

7. Apply a second, final coat of stone sealer to the pavers to ensure they're thoroughly sealed and protected. Use the same application procedure as with the first coat. Let the sealer dry for 48 hours before walking or driving on the stone.

Tips & Warnings

• Metal scrub brushes damage and erode stone surfaces.

References

• Paver Search: Natural Stone Pavers and Their Benefits
• Paver Search: Pavers Sealing Procedures
• Natural Stone Care, Inc: Natural Stone Care Frequently Asked Questions
• Marble Institute of America: Natural Stone Care and Cleaning