Sealers

Good surface preparation is essential as concrete pavers and natural stones are highly porous enabling liquids which carry staining elements to be readily absorbed making cleaning extremely difficult.

Even the best sealant can cause a poor appearance to a newly installed paver rather than enhance it if applied over a dirty or poorly cleaned surface. It is important to remove all contaminants as dirt and soils cause a physical barrier to successful sealing. Deposits left on the surface may solubilise and be drawn further into the substrate causing permanent staining.

The entire surface should initially be cleaned by high-pressure water jet. Should other stains such as oil, timber and clay remain or efflorescence is still apparent, then a propriety-cleaning chemical may be necessary.

Methods to clean unprotected paving rely on the ability of the cleaning contractor to correctly identify the cause of the problem and determine the correct cleaning agent and procedure.

After grouting, all mortar smears must be completely removed before sealing. It should be noted that wet or damp pavers mask stains, so a final examination should be done when pavement is dry prior to sealing.

Where sand and cement grout is used, ensure that grouting of pavers is completely dry before application of Miteq Sealers. Grout should be cured after seven days given reasonable weather.

If acids are used on unsealed concrete paving tiles, natural stone or other porous materials, acid strength should be monitored to prevent damage to paving tiles and grout. When using a cleaning chemical the pavement should first be dampened with water prior to application of the chemical. A dry surface allows the chemical to be drawn down into the paver rendering it relatively ineffective; a dampened surface keeps the chemical on the surface enabling it to work on the stain.

Always follow the written instructions contained on the label, data sheet and web site when using chemicals. Make sure that all cleaning products have been thoroughly removed using a pressure water cleaner. A neutraliser such as Cleaner 301 or sodium bicarbonate is recommended following acid cleaning. A properly cleaned surface free of efflorescence ensures a uniform result and allows Miteq Sealers to better penetrate the surface and provide effective stain resistance. Sealers 102, 103 & 104 are penetrating sealers and cannot be removed once applied.