DIY or Hire Out? What You Need to Know About Sealing Pavers
- Jun 28, 2025
- 4 min read
When it comes to enhancing the curb appeal and durability of your driveway, patio, or walkway, paver sealing plays a crucial role. Whether you’ve just installed new pavers or your existing ones are looking a bit dull, sealing can rejuvenate their appearance and protect them from weathering, stains, and weeds. But one big question remains for homeowners in Dayton and beyond: should you tackle the sealing yourself or hire a professional?
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about sealing pavers—what it is, why it matters, and the pros and cons of the DIY approach versus hiring a professional.
What Is Paver Sealing?
Aesthetic improvement and long term protection. Sealants present in a variety of finishes from natural matte to high gloss and they also do to:
Deepen the color of the pavers
Repel water, oil, and stains
Reduce weed growth and ant population between joints.
Prevent fading from UV exposure
Protect against freeze-thaw cycles
Paver sealing is very important in the climate of Dayton, Ohio, which sees great temperature variations and high moisture which in turn affects outdoor hardscapes.
DIY Paver Sealing: The Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
Cost Savings
Professional paver sealing out of a homeowner’s own hands may see a great return in terms of money. Prices for this service range between $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot which varies based on what kind of pavers are used, what sealant is used and how the area was prepared.
Scheduling Flexibility
Homeowners can work on the project at their own pace which also means they don’t have to wait for an appointment.
Learning Experience
For do it yourself enthusiasts the process of cleaning, sanding and sealing pavers is very educational.
❌ Cons
Risk of Mistakes
Paver sealing is not just a matter of applying a coat. Issues such as over application, insufficient cleaning, or sealing while the pavers are still wet cause hazing, peeling, or in some cases the sealant to trap moisture.
Equipment Investment
DIYers will rent or purchase equipment which may include a pressure washer, leaf blower and also possibly a sprayer or roller. Also high quality sealants may turn out to be very expensive.
Time and Labor
Even for a medium sized patio it becomes a full weekend project. The prep work of cleaning, sanding the joints, and applying sealant also includes waiting for everything to dry in between steps.
Hiring a Professional: When It's Worth It
If the project is on a large scale, involves old pavers which need attention, or the goal is to avoid stress, going with a professional for paver sealing is the way to go. Companies like Apply Pressure in Dayton provide specialized services which go beyond the basic seal -- their teams see to it that the job is done right from start to finish which in turn improves the look and wear of your pavers.
✅ Benefits of Hiring Experts
Deep Cleaning
Professional pressure washers can banish out those years of grime, algae, and efflorescence which may escape DIY tools.
Joint Stabilization
Many pros put in polymeric sand at the joints prior to sealing, which in turn helps out with the weed issue and also gives a more even appearance.
Even Application
Professionals use industrial sprayers and they also have the skill to apply sealant evenly which in turn avoids streaks or bubbles.
High-Quality Products
Experienced contractors also have access to commercial grade sealers which the public does not and these last longer and provide better UV protection.
Warranties and Guarantees
Reputable businesses stand behind their work. Should anything go wrong -- like flaking or peeling -- Apply Pressure Dayton is available to help.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing
Here is what homeowners should think through as they decide between doing it themselves or hiring a professional:
Project Size
For a small walkway, a DIY approach may work. But if there's a large driveway or patio to seal the job may require a professional’s skill and time.
Surface Condition
If the pavers are old, discolored, or uneven they will need more preparation. Professionals may fix issues like drainage, efflorescence, or uneven joints before sealing.
Budget
DIY is of a lower price at the start, but mistakes can become more costly. Hiring professionals may break the bank but in the end gives better results and full protection.
Time Commitment
Short on time to clean, dry and seal the pavers which is a multi day job? If so, it may be better to outsource it—it will save time and stress.
What the Sealing Process Looks Like (Done Right)
Whether the project is DIY or outsourced, here is a basic walk through of the paver sealing process:
Surface Preparation
Remove out of place furniture, debris, and weeds. Pressure washes well and allows pavers to dry out for at least 24-48 hours.
Joint Sanding
Add mulch at joints (especially polymeric mulch) for stability and weed control.
Sealing Application
Use a sprayer or a roller for application of the sealant. For most jobs two coats will be required and in between coats proper drying is a must.
Curing
It takes 24-48 hours until the surface is safe for foot traffic or vehicle use. Professional services like Apply Pressure Dayton ensure a hard wearing finish.
Apply Pressure Dayton does this to a tee—the team delivers perfect results for their clients all the time.
Conclusion: Should You DIY or Hire?
At the end the decision depends on skill level, available time, and the value placed on a perfect finish. Do It Yourself is a good option for small simple projects and homeowners that are very confident. But for large scale jobs or older pavers, professional paver sealing services offer better protection, longer term results and greater peace of mind.
In the Dayton area and looking to do some hardscape work, Apply Pressure Dayton is the go-to pro. Their experienced team brings quality service to each project, delivering a high quality finish that protects the investment and improves the home’s curb appeal.
