If you have put time and money into your patio driveway or paths you will want them to stay looking smart for as long as possible. In the UK our weather can be unforgiving with constant rain frost and the odd heatwave all taking a toll on your outdoor surfaces. That is where sealers come in.
This guide is written for homeowners in the UK who want clear straightforward advice. Whether you are a serious DIYer or work in the trade you will find practical information and product type suggestions supported by Trade Supplies UK.
What Exactly are Sealers
A sealer is a protective liquid coating applied to porous surfaces such as stone concrete and block paving. Once applied it soaks into the surface and creates a protective barrier.
This barrier helps to
• Repel water and stains
• Reduce moss mould and algae growth
• Protect against oil and dirt from vehicles and barbecues
• Make surfaces easier to clean
• Improve and refresh the colour and finish
Without a good quality sealer many outdoor surfaces quickly become dull, stained and slippery. With the right product you can extend the life of your paving and keep it looking sharp for years.
How Sealers Work
Most trade quality sealers work by soaking into the tiny pores in stone or concrete. Once inside they cure and form either
• A clear breathable layer within the surface
• A thin protective film on top of the surface
Some sealers are designed to be almost invisible keeping a very natural look while others slightly deepen the colour and give a satin or gloss finish.
The main ways sealers protect your surfaces are
• Water resistance
By reducing how much water can soak in they help prevent frost damage, efflorescence white salts and green growth.
• Stain resistance
Oils grease food and drinks are less likely to soak in giving you time to wipe spills away before they mark.
• Surface strengthening
Many concrete and paving sealers help bind the surface together which reduces dusting and minor surface wear.
Trade Supplies UK offers a range of professional grade sealers that use these technologies to give long lasting performance on different surfaces.
Types of Sealers
Different materials require different types of sealers for the best results. Here’s a homeowner-friendly breakdown so you can choose confidently.
Sandstone Sealers
Sandstone is popular in UK gardens because of its natural character and variety of colours. However it is also quite porous which means it soaks up water and stains easily. This can lead to dark patches, algae growth and general discolouration.
Why sandstone needs sealing
A quality sandstone sealer from Trade Supplies UK will
• Reduce water absorption to help prevent green growth and black spotting
• Protect against barbecue spills food drinks and fallen leaves
• Help keep the stone from becoming rough flaky or uneven over time
Imprinted Concrete Sealers
Pattern imprinted concrete driveways and patios are a common sight across the UK. Over time the original seal coat can wear away leaving the surface dull and faded and more vulnerable to staining and cracking.
Why imprinted concrete benefits from sealing
Using an imprinted concrete sealer from Trade Supplies UK can
• Restore colour when used with colour tint where appropriate
• Protect the surface from petrol oil brake fluid and other vehicle contaminants
• Help resist tyre marks and general wear in high traffic areas
• Reduce dusting and minor surface erosion
Block Paving Sealers
Block paving is widely used for driveways and paths across the UK thanks to its flexibility and smart appearance. The main issues for block paving are oil stains from vehicles colour fading and joint sand being washed out.
How block paving sealers help
A good block paving sealer from Trade Supplies UK can
• Bind the jointing sand helping to reduce loss of sand in heavy rain
• Make it harder for weed seeds and moss to take hold in the joints
• Provide resistance to oil fuel and general driveway stains
• Freshen up the colour of older paving
Concrete Sealers
Plain concrete is used for everything from garages to shed bases paths and utility areas. While it is tough it can be dusty, hard to clean and prone to staining.
Benefits of concrete sealers
Concrete sealers available through Trade Supplies UK provide several advantages
• Reduce dusting particularly on older or indoor concrete floors
• Protect against oil staining in garages and driveways
• Make sweeping and washing much easier
• Help prevent surface wear in high traffic zones
How to Choose the Right Sealer for Your Project
When browsing Trade Supplies UK for a sealer keep the following points in mind.
• Surface type
Is it sandstone imprinted concrete block paving or plain concrete
Each surface has different needs and you will get the best result from a product designed specifically for that material.
• Desired appearance
Do you want a natural invisible look a gentle colour boost or a noticeable sheen
The finish you choose makes a big difference to the character of your patio or driveway.
• Location and use
Driveways need strong resistance to oil and tyre marks. Patios may need better food and drink stain protection. Shady paths benefit from products that help to reduce algae growth.
• Existing condition
Older surfaces may need cleaning repairs and sometimes colour tinting before sealing. Make sure cracks loose joints or damaged areas are sorted first.
If you are unsure which product suits your project you can use Trade Supplies UK product descriptions and guidance to match the sealer to your exact situation.
Final Thoughts
Sealers are an essential part of protecting and enhancing your outdoor surfaces particularly in the changeable UK climate. Whether you are caring for beautiful sandstone, a patterned concrete driveway, practical block paving or simple concrete a suitable sealer will help your investment last longer, look better and be much easier to maintain.
