You've had your driveway, patio, or walkway professionally pressure washed, and it looks brand new again. But here's a question worth asking before you consider the job "done": should you also seal the surface? For concrete and paver surfaces, sealing is one of the most effective ways to protect your investment, extend the life of a fresh cleaning, and reduce how often you'll need professional service in the future. Here's a closer look at what sealing actually does and why it's worth considering.
What Does a Sealant Actually Do?
A concrete or paver sealant is a protective coating applied to the surface after cleaning. Depending on the product, it either forms a thin protective film on top of the surface or penetrates the material itself, filling in microscopic pores. Either way, the goal is the same: create a barrier between the surface and the elements, water, oil, dirt, UV rays, and organic growth that would otherwise soak in and cause damage or staining over time.
Key Benefits of Sealing
1. Stains Sit on Top Instead of Soaking In
Untreated concrete and pavers are porous, meaning liquids, oil drips, wine spills, leaf tannins, rust from patio furniture can seep into the surface and cause stains that are difficult or impossible to fully remove. A sealed surface keeps those substances from penetrating, so spills sit on top of the sealant and can typically be wiped or rinsed away before they set in.
2. Slows Down Algae, Mold, and Weed Growth
Moisture trapped in the pores of concrete or in the joints between pavers creates the perfect environment for algae, mold, and mildew, the same organic growth that leads to the need for pressure washing in the first place. Sealing reduces how much moisture the surface absorbs, which in turn slows the return of that growth. For paver patios specifically, a good sealant can also help prevent weeds and ants from finding their way up through the joint sand.
3. Protects Against UV Fading
Constant sun exposure can cause concrete and pavers to fade or discolor over time, especially colored or stamped concrete. Many sealants include UV inhibitors that help protect the surface's color and finish, keeping it looking newer for longer.
4. Makes Future Cleaning Easier
Because dirt and grime can't work their way as deeply into a sealed surface, routine maintenance becomes significantly easier. Instead of needing a full pressure washing service to lift out embedded stains, a sealed surface often only needs a simple hose-down or light scrub to stay looking clean between professional services.
5. Helps Prevent Cracking and Erosion
Water that seeps into concrete or gets trapped beneath and between pavers can expand when it freezes (a particular concern in areas with freeze-thaw cycles) or contribute to erosion of the base material underneath over time. Sealing helps reduce water penetration, which can, in turn, help reduce the risk of cracking, spalling (surface flaking), or paver shifting caused by water damage.
6. Enhances Appearance
Beyond protection, many sealants offer a cosmetic benefit, a subtle sheen or "wet look" finish that deepens the color of the concrete or pavers and gives the surface a richer, more finished appearance. Depending on the product, you can typically choose between a matte, satin, or high-gloss finish based on your preference.
How Long Does Sealant Last?
This varies based on the product used, the surface, and how much foot or vehicle traffic the area gets, but most sealants last 1 to 3 years before they need to be reapplied. High-traffic driveways may need more frequent resealing than a lightly used patio or walkway. Your service provider can recommend a resealing schedule based on your specific surface and climate.
Is Sealing Right for Every Surface?
Sealing is most recommended for:
- Concrete driveways and walkways
- Paver patios, pool decks, and walkways
- Stamped or decorative concrete
- Pool decks (using a slip-resistant sealant formulation)
It's always worth asking your pressure washing provider whether sealing is a good fit for your specific surface and material. Some natural stone or specialty surfaces may require a different type of product or approach.
The Bottom Line
Pressure washing removes years of built-up dirt and grime, but it doesn't protect the surface from the same buildup happening again. Sealing is the natural next step: it locks in the clean results, makes the surface more resistant to stains, weather, and organic growth, and ultimately reduces how often you'll need a deep clean in the future. For many homeowners, it's a small additional investment that pays off in both appearance and long-term surface protection.