The Clean Guys Paver Sealing, a long-serving exterior maintenance company in Broward County, has issued a warning to Fort Lauderdale homeowners about the long-term risks of leaving surfaces unsealed in Florida's coastal climate, with its persistent humidity, salt-rich air, and intense UV rays.
A Harsh Environment for Exposed Pavers
What happens if you don't seal your pavers? Fort Lauderdale stays fairly humid throughout the year and experiences around 68 inches of rain (over 140 rainy days) annually. Persistent exposure to moisture leaves bare pavers vulnerable to mold growth, lost joint stability, and fading.
Unless homeowners invest in protective treatments, the accelerated wear on their outdoor hardscapes may lead to costly repairs in the future. That's why proactive care is almost always the more cost-effective route to take.
Other Common Threats to Paver Longevity in Fort Lauderdale
Many love Coral Ridge, Victoria Park, Las Olas Isles, and other Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods for their lush, tropical landscapes and charming waterways, but the location also comes with challenges. Aside from water-induced surface erosion, untreated pavers may deteriorate from the following:
- High UV index: Sunny days may be great for beachside activities, but not so much for pavers. The intense rays break down pigments and leave surfaces looking drab and faded within a year of constant exposure.
- Salt exposure: Salt particulates from the sea air can wear down exposed surfaces and eventually create rough, pitted textures. The minerals may also seep into porous materials, which weakens them over time.
- Weed growth: After five years of no protection, most pavers end up with cracks, lost joint sand, and unevenness. The extra nooks and crannies become the perfect spot for stubborn weeds to root.
How Paver Sealing Helps
"What happens if you don't seal your pavers?" said a representative from The Clean Guys Paver Sealing. "Many homeowners underestimate how quickly Florida weather can do a number on their bare surfaces. We've seen color loss and structural instability begin in less than 12 months, especially near the Intracoastal and humid, shaded zones."
As the name suggests, sealing is the process of applying a protective layer over paver surfaces. The company refreshes the area first through pressure washing since even the smallest contaminants can impact the coating's finish and longevity. After filling the gaps with polymeric sand to lock the pavers in place, experts spray the sealant evenly and let it cure for the appropriate amount of time.
Protect Your Pavers Before It's Too Late: Fort Lauderdale Experts Urge Action
What happens if you don't seal your pavers? One may end up with color fading, cracks from water absorption, unchecked weed growth, and thousands in preventable repair costs.
Homeowners interested in giving their outdoor spaces extra durability and stain protection can visit The Clean Guys Paver Sealing's website and schedule a free inspection.
