A patio sealer and a coloured patio paint serve different purposes. Choose by the actual paving and approved use, not by a promise that every outdoor surface needs sealing.
Start with the substrate
Identify natural stone, concrete slabs, block paving or another surface. Record any old coating and check its condition. Address movement, drainage and damaged material first; neither paint nor sealer is a structural repair.
When to consider a sealer
Browse driveway and patio sealers for products approved for the particular paving. Check whether the selected finish changes colour or sheen and whether it is compatible with the retained coating. Do not assume it prevents weeds, moss, frost damage or every type of stain.
Wet-look is not a universal finish
Paving porosity and existing treatments affect appearance. A wet-look, matt or gloss description is not a slip-performance rating. Confirm the exact product and use a suitable trial area before treating the whole patio.
When to consider paint
A coloured coating may be an option for concrete approved by the paint manufacturer. Browse exterior floor paints. A vertical-wall masonry paint is not automatically rated for foot traffic, and a timber finish is not a concrete-patio finish.
Prepare the complete system
Choose a compatible cleaner and follow residue-removal instructions. Confirm surface readiness, primer requirements and whether an old coating must be removed. A sealer is not automatically needed before or after painting; extra layers must be approved together.
Apply at the specified rate
Use the stated tools, coverage and coat count in permitted weather. Do not assume all sealers can be sprayed or all patio paints need two thin coats. Plan touch-dry, recoating and access separately using drying versus curing guide.
Maintain without guessing
Use approved cleaning and inspect worn areas. Ask for recoating compatibility before adding more product. There is no shared lifespan or annual resealing interval. Keep the product and batch details for future reference.
