Sealers that are mixed with polyurethane resin are best for a long-lasting, high-gloss finish . Acrylic is a common alternative to polyurethane. These may need reapplying more often, but are generally less expensive to buy. Sand the joints – brush jointing sand into all of the joints – don’t rush this job and take care to apply sand evenly PatioSeal creates a layer over the stones that makes them easier to clean, and it can help repel dirt, water, and oil. If you like to have BBQs on your patio during summer, but hate the messy grease stains that they leave behind, the surface should get much fewer stains after applying this sealer.

Deep clean the patio approximately one week before applying the sealer. This means power washing the slabs, clearing all dirt, and weeding. You’ll also need to decide whether you want a water-based or solvent-based sealer. If it’s your first time applying sealant, a water-based sealer may be best . They’re relatively inexpensive and easy to clean up if spilled. They also don’t have a strong chemical smell like solvent-based sealants. Leave to dry thoroughly for at least a week before continuing, you want any sand in the joints to be dry before you continue.In terms of conditions, most sealers shouldn’t be applied if either the air or surface temperature is below 5°C. You should also avoid applying the sealer if temperatures are above 30°C. Solvent-based sealers are the best choice if you want a really tough gloss finish . They keep their shine for an extended period, which is excellent if your priority is longevity.

Choose the application method for the sealant depending on product’s recommendations – ideally use a roller or sprayer, but have a paintbrush on hand to smooth out any pools of liquid It comes as 2 x 5 L bottles, which, according to the manufacturer, is sufficient to cover 100 m ² (each bottle covers 50 m²). However, in reality it is unlikely to achieve such expansive coverage. One of the best sealants to buy on a budget, the Bond It Patio Paving Sealer comes in a 5 L bottle and brings out the natural colour of paving stones without breaking the bank.P102 Keep out of reach of children.P101 If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand.P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.P273 Avoid release to the environment.P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/ spray.P301 + P310 IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call a POISON CENTRE/doctor/…P331 Do NOT induce vomiting.P501 Dispose of contents/container to … To seal the patio without changing the appearance of the stones, you might want to look for an ‘impregnating sealer’ . These are absorbed into the porous stones instead of sitting on top of them. To make things easier, the seal has a slightly milky colour when wet, which makes it possible to see which areas have already been covered. One 25 L bottle should be sufficient for the majority of spaces.

Apply two to three coats (depending on instructions) and leave sufficient time to dry between coats. With an included fungicide, the Sika Patio Seal is one of the best patio sealers for protecting the patio and stopping any slippery moulds grow over the colder months. You’ll need to make sure that you get the best patio sealer for the type of stones you want to seal, and ensure that it will achieve the effect you’re after. The best patio sealers for creating a matt finish are ‘impregnating’ sealers that seal the holes in the porous patio material instead of adding a protective layer over the top. Solvent Based vs Non-Solvent Based

After final coat, make sure patio will be protected from rain for several hours. Ideally leave 24 hours of no rain and no traffic on the surface to ensure a full cure.