Fernandina Beach Paver Sealing

Polymeric sand is a product that is specifically designed to harden and interlock the joints of pavers, travertine, and other hardscape surfaces.

There are two types of polymeric sand: basic polymeric sand and wide joint polymeric sand. A higher polymer content helps to firmly lock up the sand and keep it in place.

One of the benefits of using polymeric sand is that it helps to prevent weed growth and deter ants from eating through. However, it's important to note that while it is very effective, the manufacturers do not provide a guarantee for this.

In order for the sand to stay in the joints, proper edge restraint must be in place on the outside edges. This ensures that the sand remains securely in the desired areas.

Additionally, it is crucial that the base below the sand is solid and level. If the base is not properly prepared, the sand will simply slide through and fail to properly fill the joint.

Just like any other type of sand, areas that are exposed to heavy water, such as the bottom of gutters, are more prone to sand loss.

When it comes to driveway surfaces, it's important to understand that over time, the sand will develop a crusty flaking on the top. This is due to the weight of vehicles and the friction caused by the wheels and turning.

The cost of sealing pavers in Florida can vary depending on several factors, and prices also vary wildly across the state. The main factors include the square footage of the space that needs to be sealed, how "thirsty" the pavers are (meaning the porosity or absorption of the pavers), the final look you're going for, whether you need added grip, the location of the space which impacts the difficulty of applying sealant, if there are any stains that need to be addressed, if repairs or leveling is required, and more.

Most professional paver sealers charge between $1.50 and $2.00 per square foot. That said, in the Fernandina Beach area rates can be as high as $3.00 per square foot. You may also encounter people offering to do the job for $0.75 to $1.00 a square foot. You get what you pay for, so beware of the low-cost provider. He'll likely cut corners in the preparation process, over or under sand the joints, and use low-grade or diluted sealant. The final result is often a sealant with a very short lifespan, or worse, a failed sealant that turns hazy and requires a very costly stripping procedure to fix. 

As a very rough estimate, using a professional sealing company you can expect to pay anywhere from $1600 and $2200 for a typical 2-car size driveway with accompanying walkway.

The highest grade sealants applied correctly are rated to last 2-5 years before they need an additional coat. The lifespan depends on environmental conditions and exposure. Expect a job done right to last at least 2 years, and with some sealers, 2-4 years. Also, if the job is done properly, you can usually get away with another coat of sealant after a few years without the need to completely strip and re-sand before sealing again. Every situation is different, as all pavers are different. So it's best to consult with us to see what your options are. 

The best way to stop weeds, ants, mold, grass, and other things from creeping out of the joints between your pavers is to sand the joints properly and then to seal them. Sealed joints prevents a barrier to keep things from making their way to the surface.