The Best Method for Sealing a Patio: A Practical, No-Nonsense Guide

Sealing your patio isn’t just about sprucing things up—it’s about protecting your investment. Whether you’ve laid down premium paving slabs or lovingly restored an old concrete terrace, the right sealant can dramatically extend its lifespan, enhance its colour, and make future maintenance a whole lot easier. The tricky part? Choosing the best method—one that actually works for your surface, your lifestyle, and your level of DIY ambition.

If you're searching for a straightforward, effective approach that delivers lasting results, you're in the right place. Below, we’re breaking down how to seal your patio the right way—without falling for trends that overpromise and underdeliver.

Why Bother Sealing a Patio at All?

Let’s start with the basics. You’ve spent time, money, and effort getting your patio just the way you want it. But here’s the harsh truth: without a proper sealant, all of that can quickly deteriorate.

What can go wrong?

• Weather damage from rain, frost, or UV rays

• Unsightly stains from BBQ grease, red wine, or plant pots

• Weed growth and moss build-up in the joints

• Surface erosion and colour fading over time

A good-quality sealer helps your patio fight back. Think of it like sunscreen for stone—it’s a protective layer that shields and strengthens.

What’s the Best Method for Sealing a Patio?

There’s no shortage of sealing products and how-to guides out there, but the best method really comes down to doing it properly, from prep to application to aftercare. Here’s a step-by-step that won’t let you down.

Step 1: Start with a Clean Slate

Preparation is everything. Applying sealer to a dirty or damp patio is like painting over dust—it won’t stick, and it won’t last.

Do this before anything else:

• Sweep thoroughly to remove debris, dust, and leaves

• Pressure wash to lift grime, algae, and stubborn stains

• Let it dry completely (ideally 24-48 hours of dry weather)

• Treat for weeds and moss if needed—don’t seal them in!

Pro Tip: A cleaner like our Heavy Duty Patio Cleaner & Fungicidal Wash can make all the difference here, especially if you’ve got stubborn black spots or green staining.

Step 2: Choose the Right Patio Sealer

This is where many people go wrong. Not all sealers are created equal. What works for a decorative concrete slab might be a disaster on natural sandstone. Always choose a product that’s:

• Surface-specific (e.g., stone, block paving, concrete, slate)

• UV-resistant and weatherproof

• Breathable, so moisture doesn’t get trapped underneath

• Slip-resistant if it’s a high-traffic or outdoor area

At Premium Paints, we only stock products we genuinely believe in—ones that strike the right balance between performance, ease of application, and value. Our collection is shaped by real-world results, not marketing gimmicks.

Step 3: Apply with Care (and Confidence)

Once you’ve selected the right sealer, it’s time to apply. Most modern sealers are ready-to-use and go on like a dream, but technique still matters.

Application checklist:

• Use a roller, brush, or low-pressure sprayer

• Apply in thin, even coats—don’t flood the surface

• Allow the first coat to dry (usually 2-4 hours)

• Apply a second coat for extra durability

• Let it cure for 24-48 hours before foot traffic or furniture

Want an easy win? Our Trade Strength Patio Sealers are designed for both professionals and DIY users. They go on smoothly, dry quickly, and last longer than many high-street alternatives.

Step 4: Maintain the Magic

Sealing your patio isn’t a one-and-done deal. Even the best sealers need a refresh every few years. Here’s how to keep things looking sharp:

• Reapply sealer every 2–3 years, depending on foot traffic and exposure

• Spot-treat spills quickly to prevent staining

• Sweep and rinse regularly to stop dirt build-up

Using a Patio Sealer (1.0K), Patio Paint Sealer (30) can transform not only how your patio looks but also how it performs, especially when you're dealing with unpredictable UK weather. And yes, you’ll notice the difference.

Why We Stock the Products We Do

You might be wondering: why choose Premium Paints over the dozens of other suppliers out there? Here's the honest answer.

We’re not just selling paint and sealers. We’re curating a collection that actually works.

Here’s what connects the products in our range:

• Professional-grade quality, trusted by contractors and driveway specialists

• DIY-friendly formulas, so homeowners can achieve great results too

• Competitive pricing, because premium protection shouldn’t cost the earth

• Real durability, backed by customer feedback and repeat orders

• Focused range, because we believe in doing fewer things better

Rather than offering endless variations of the same product, we’ve chosen top performers—ones that deliver on promise, price, and performance.

Want proof? Just check out our Best Sellers in Sealers & Coatings and see what our trade professionals come back for time and again.

Recap: Your Go-To Patio Sealing Strategy

To seal your patio the right way:

• Clean it thoroughly

• Pick the right product for your surface

• Apply in thin coats with drying time in between

• Maintain it with simple, seasonal care

That’s it. No gimmicks. Just the best method, done right.

Ready to Get Started?

Explore our full range of premium patio sealers designed to perform in UK conditions. Whether you're a homeowner sealing a new slab or a contractor taking on large-scale projects, we've got you covered.

Trade professional? Register for a Trade Account to unlock bulk pricing, priority dispatch, and tailored advice.

Home DIYer? Check out our Help & Advice section for step-by-step guides, application tips, and honest recommendations.

Protect your patio the right way. Start with the right product.