Achieve a Professional Finish with Thompsons Patio & Block Paving Seal
Giving your outdoor space a makeover doesn't have to be a daunting task. Whether you have granite, limestone, sandstone, or standard block paving, applying a high quality sealer like Thompson's Patio & Block Paving Seal is the best way to enhance the colour and protect your investment.
This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step to ensure you get that perfect, beautiful finish, even if you’ve never picked up a roller or brush before.
Phase 1: Preparation is Key
You might be tempted to start sealing straight away, but the secret to a "fantastic finish" is all in the prep work. The sealer needs a clean, bone-dry surface to bond correctly.
- Check the Weather: Ensure it is a dry day with a temperature above 10°C. Avoid applying the product if rain is forecast, as moisture will ruin the finish.
- Clear the Dust: Use a stiff bristle brush to give the entire area a vigorous scrub. You need to remove all dust, dirt, and loose debris.
-
Target Stains:
- For mould or algae: Use Bond-It Patio Blaster to clean the area first.
- For oil or diesel stains: Use Thompson's Oil & Drive Cleaner to remove the stains and marks first.
- Rinse and Dry: If you use any cleaners, rinse them off thoroughly with water. Crucially, you must wait for the paving and the jointing sand to be completely dry before moving to the next step.
- Top Tip: Always test the sealer on a small, hidden corner first. The appearance of your paving can change significantly once the coating is applied, so make sure you love the look before committing to the whole patio.
Phase 2: Application for a Flawless Finish
Once your patio is sparkling clean and dry, it’s time to apply the seal.
Prep the Product: Give the tin a really good shake to ensure the acrylic resins are well mixed.
The First Coat: Pour the sealer into a roller tray. Using a long pile roller, apply the liquid in long, smooth, even strokes.
Manage Puddles: If you have textured paving, keep an eye out for "puddling" in the dips. Use your roller to spread any excess liquid into drier areas to ensure an even thickness.
Hard to Reach Areas: In areas where you cannot reach easily with a roller, use an emulsion or large exterior brush and work into the surface.
The Wait: The sealer will be touch-dry in about 1 hour, but you must wait 4 hours before applying the second coat.
The Second Coat: Apply your second coat exactly like the first. If your surface is particularly rough or porous, you may find it needs a third coat to achieve that consistent finish.
Phase 3: Drying and Aftercare
Now that the hard work is done, you need to protect the wet surface while it cures.
Foot Traffic: Stay off the patio for at least 4 hours after the final coat has dried.
Heavy Use: Do not park cars or move heavy garden furniture back onto the treated surface for at least 24 hours.
Full Hardness: The sealer will reach its maximum durability within a few days.
Clean Up & Maintenance
Don't let your tools go to waste! Because this is a solvent based product, water won't clean it off.
Equipment: Clean your rollers, brushes, and trays immediately after use with white spirit or a dedicated brush cleaner.
Maintenance: To keep that beautiful finish, clean your patio routinely and to maintain maximum protection, plan to recoat the area approximately every 2 years.
Safety Note: Remember that sealed surfaces can be slippery when wet. Take care when walking on your beautiful new patio after a rain shower!
To view more details or to purchase the Patio Seal, click the link below:
