If you’ve been planning your outdoor patio, driveway, or walkway here in the Kitsap Peninsula, you’ve probably come across the term sealing concrete pavers. And if you’re like most homeowners, you’re left wondering: Is this something I actually need to do? Is sealing worth it?

You want your patio or driveway to stay beautiful for years to come, and you certainly don’t want to invest in something that doesn’t make a difference—or worse, causes problems down the road. At the same time, sealing can feel like one of those “upsell” things that might not be necessary. That uncertainty is frustrating.

We get it. At Brookside Landscape and Design, we’ve worked with homeowners across the Kitsap peninsula and beyond who’ve had the same questions. You’re not alone in feeling a bit confused. Our goal here is simple: to break down the differences between sealed and unsealed concrete pavers so you can decide what’s right for your project without second-guessing yourself later.

What Are Sealed Concrete Pavers?

First, let’s tackle the basics. A sealed concrete paver is simply one that has been treated with a protective layer of liquid sealant. This sealant acts like a shield for the surface of your pavers. It seeps into the pores of the material and sits on top to create a barrier against water, stains, and wear.

Sealing is a bit like waxing your car—it adds protection, enhances the look, and can make cleaning easier. But, just like waxing, it’s not a permanent solution. It needs maintenance and might not be the right fit for everyone.

What Are Unsealed Concrete Pavers?

Unsealed pavers, on the other hand, are left in their natural state. They don’t have that protective barrier, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re inferior. Many homeowners love the look of unsealed pavers because they appear more natural and weather gracefully over time.

Without a sealant, though, pavers are more exposed to the elements. Dirt, water, oil, barbeque rust, and weeds can make themselves at home, especially if your patio or driveway sees heavy use or if Washington’s wet weather comes into play.

How Does Sealing Impact the Look of Your Pavers?

One of the first things you’ll notice after sealing pavers is the lustrous sheen. Sealants often darken the color of the pavers slightly and can give them a “wet look” that some homeowners find appealing. This can boost the paver’s natural tones and make them stand out more. You went with pavers for a reason, let them be the showpiece you wanted!

Unsealed pavers, on the other hand, maintain their original appearance. They blend into their surroundings in a way that feels more organic and naturally appealing, which might suit your personal taste or the aesthetic of your home.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

Do I want my pavers to look natural or enhanced?
Am I okay with a little shine, or do I prefer a matte finish?

The answers to these questions will help you decide if sealing fits your vision.

Durability: Which Holds Up Better?

Here in the Pacific Northwest, weather plays a big role in how well outdoor materials hold up. Rain, moss, and temperature changes can all take their toll on your pavers. Let’s look at how sealing and not sealing compare when it comes to durability:

Sealed Pavers:

Water Resistance: Sealant prevents water from seeping into the pavers unless your patio was installed with permeable pavers which allows water to drain through them. This is a big plus during rainy months, as trapped moisture can cause settling or other damage when temperatures drop.
Stain Protection: Sealant protects against stains from oil, leaves, or spills—especially helpful for driveways and outdoor dining areas. No more barbeque rust stains!
Easier Cleaning: Dirt and grime sit on the surface rather than embedding themselves into the material, making maintenance simpler and saving your back and knees.

Unsealed Pavers:

Natural Aging: Unsealed pavers will age naturally and might develop a weathered patina that some homeowners love.
Potential for Damage: Without sealant, pavers are more likely to absorb water, which could lead to cracking in freeze-thaw cycles.
Stain Risk: Oil, grease, and even natural debris can leave permanent marks.

Maintenance: What’s Involved?

Sealed Pavers:

The sealant doesn’t last forever. You’ll need to reapply it every 3–5 years, depending on the wear and tear your pavers experience. This involves cleaning the surface thoroughly, applying a fresh coat, and allowing it to cure. While this process isn’t overly complicated, it does require time and effort (or hiring a professional).

Unsealed Pavers:

Unsealed pavers require regular sweeping, power washing, and occasional weeding, as they’re more prone to getting dirty and allowing weeds to sprout in the joints. However, you don’t have to worry about resealing every few years, which can save money over time.

Cost Considerations

Naturally, sealing your pavers adds to the cost of your project. This includes both the initial application and the maintenance down the line. For many homeowners, the peace of mind and long-term protection are worth it. For others, skipping the sealant can feel like a smarter choice financially, especially if they don’t mind putting in a bit more effort to maintain their patio or driveway.

Key Question:

Do I want to invest in upfront protection, or am I comfortable putting in extra care over time?

Common Misconceptions About Sealing Pavers

Let’s clear up a few myths that we often hear:

“Sealing is required for pavers.”

Not true! It’s an option, not a must-do. Many paver installations perform beautifully without a sealant.

“Sealing makes pavers slippery.”

Not necessarily. While some sealants can create a slick surface, many products are designed to maintain traction, even when wet.

“Sealing prevents all weeds and moss.”

Sealant helps, but it’s not a magic solution. You’ll still need regular maintenance to keep your patio or driveway weed-free.

So, is Sealing Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your priorities. Do you value the enhanced look and added protection that sealing provides? Or do you prefer the natural appearance of unsealed pavers and don’t mind a bit more upkeep?

Here at Brookside Landscape and Design, we believe there’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer. That’s why we always take the time to talk through your options, so you feel confident in your choice.

Our Recommendation for Kitsap Peninsula Homeowners

Given our wet climate, we often recommend sealing pavers, especially for high-traffic areas like driveways and patios. The added protection against moisture and stains can significantly extend the life of your investment. That said, we’ve also seen plenty of stunning unsealed paver projects that hold up beautifully with proper care.

If you’re unsure, we’re here to help. Let’s have a conversation about your project and figure out what makes the most sense for your space, style, and budget.

Next Steps

Whether you’re leaning toward sealed or unsealed pavers, the most important thing is to start with a quality installation. That’s where we come in. At Brookside Landscape and Design, we specialize in creating long-lasting, serviceable patios and outdoor spaces that stand up to the Pacific Northwest’s and specifically the Kitsap Peninsula’s unique challenges.