By Outdoor & General
If you’ve invested in beautiful pavers, coping, cladding or stepping stones — sealing them is the smart next step. It helps protect against weather, stains and ageing, and keeps your space looking fresh for years.
We’ve put together a practical guide to make sealing simple. Whether it’s your first time or you’re resealing, follow these steps to get it right.
Why Seal Outdoor Surfaces?
Sealing gives your outdoor surfaces long-lasting protection. It:
- Guards against stains, water, and harsh weather
- Enhances the colour and natural texture of the stone
- Makes cleaning easier
- Extends the life of your pavers, tiles or cladding
Step 1: Start with a Proper Clean
Before sealing, your surface needs to be completely clean and dry.
- Use the right cleaner: alkaline for everyday grime, acidic for tough stains, or an efflorescence remover for white deposits
- Always test a small spot first to check compatibility
- Allow 24–48 hours to fully dry before sealing
Step 2: Pick the Right Sealer
Not all sealers are the same — we’ll help you find the one that suits your needs.
- Penetrating sealers: Protect without changing the appearance
- Enhancing sealers: Slightly darken and enrich colour
- Wet-look sealers: Add a glossy finish (note: may not be suitable for every area)
We stock high-quality sealers suited for various stone types, finishes, and outdoor settings.
Step 3: Check the Weather
Choose a dry day with:
- No rain forecast for 24–48 hours
- Mild temperatures (10°C to 30°C)
- Avoid sealing in direct heat or strong sun to prevent streaks
Step 4: Apply the Sealer
First — Safety First!
Always wear:
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- A mask (especially when spraying)
- Long sleeves and pants
Now to application:
- A Lambswool applicator is ideal for flat surfaces like pavers
- A roller can also work well
- For vertical areas (like retaining walls or cladding), use a low-pressure sprayer or brush for hard-to-reach spots
Depending on the product and the surface (especially around pools or salt-exposed areas), you may need up to 5 coats. Always follow the sealer manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 5: Allow Time to Cure
Once applied, let the sealer dry and cure properly:
- Touch dry: usually within 1–4 hours
- Avoid walking or placing items: for at least 24 hours
- Full cure: may take up to 7 days
Keep the area free of moisture during this time for best results.
Coverage & Planning
Sealer coverage varies depending on your stone’s porosity and how many coats you apply.
- As a general rule: 1 litre covers approx. 10m² per coat
(Bear in mind how many coats you’ll need) - Check the label for exact coverage recommendations
Not sure how much to buy? Our team can help calculate it for you.
How Long Does It Last?
Some of our sealers are backed by warranties of up to 15 years — a great long-term option.
That said, the life of any sealer depends on real-world conditions. Exposure to sun, harsh weather, or the use of strong (non-pH-neutral) cleaning chemicals can reduce how long a sealer lasts.
Even with a long-life product, you may need to reseal earlier in harsh environments. It’s still great protection — just be aware of what your surface is exposed to.
Maintenance Tips
- Stick to pH-neutral cleaners to avoid breaking down the sealer
- Watch how water behaves — if it no longer beads on the surface, it may be time to reseal
- Avoid abrasive or acidic cleaning products
Need Help?
At Outdoor & General, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners get the most from their outdoor surfaces. Whether you need advice on product selection, how many litres to buy, or tips for application — we’re here to help.
Protect your surfaces. Enhance your space. Seal it the right way — the Outdoor & General way.
