Don’t Get Caught Off Guard: Understanding What Your Paver Sealing Warranty Actually Covers
When investing in paver sealing for your driveway, patio, or walkway, understanding your warranty coverage can save you thousands in unexpected repair costs. While most homeowners assume all issues will be covered, the reality is that paver sealing warranties have specific inclusions and exclusions that every property owner should understand before signing on the dotted line.
What Paver Sealing Warranties Typically Cover
Most reputable paver sealing companies offer warranties that cover the functionality of the sealer itself, typically for up to 2 years. The functionality test involves placing water drops on random areas – if water gets absorbed immediately like a dry sponge, that indicates a sealer failure. When properly functioning, water should sit on top of the paver with only light penetration after a few minutes. Peeling, flaking, or delamination of the sealer is also typically covered under warranty.
Quality workmanship warranties usually include coverage for paver movement due to improper base preparation, drainage issues from incorrect pitch or slope, and joint sand problems if the sealer wasn’t applied properly. Some companies also provide discounted cleaning services during the warranty period, offering maintenance at heavily reduced rates to keep surfaces looking their best.
What’s NOT Covered: Common Warranty Exclusions
Understanding exclusions is crucial to avoid disappointment. Fading of color enhancement, organic growth such as algae and mildew, and erosion of joint sand due to natural elements are typically not covered. Issues caused by abuse, neglect, or damage from homeowners or other contractors are explicitly excluded from most warranties.
Efflorescence – that white, chalky residue that appears on pavers – is almost universally excluded from warranties. According to industry standards, efflorescence is a natural process where water-soluble minerals rise to the surface, and while sealing can help reduce it, no company can guarantee complete prevention.
Many warranties also exclude algae, mold, and mildew growth, weed growth in joints, sand washout from joints, sealer enhancement fading, and paver movement from settling or tree roots. Natural disasters like floods or earthquakes, vehicle overload beyond design limits, and poor maintenance practices are standard exclusions.
Special Considerations for Previously Sealed Pavers
A critical point many homeowners miss: warranties are typically void if pavers were previously sealed. Most companies exclude damages caused by failure of previous coatings or sealers. Any stripping or sealer removal work is generally not covered under warranty, and companies cannot guarantee complete removal of old sealers.
Maintenance Requirements to Keep Your Warranty Valid
Many companies require annual maintenance to keep warranties valid, with costs based on the square footage of the warranted surface. Pressure washing can void your warranty entirely, as it damages the sealer finish and causes premature sand loss and paver failure.
Some companies require inspections and professional cleaning every six months throughout the warranty period to maintain coverage. This ongoing maintenance requirement is often overlooked by homeowners but is essential for warranty validity.
Why Choose a Reputable Local Company
When searching for paver sealing companies near me, selecting an established local business can make all the difference in warranty fulfillment. Long Island’s Paver Savers has established itself as one of the most trusted paver cleaning, sealing, and restoration contractors, serving Nassau and Suffolk Counties with a commitment to offering the highest quality, most reliable services.
As a fully licensed and insured, locally owned company specializing in paver maintenance, they’re passionate about providing clients with quality results at fair prices, with professionally trained technicians ready to serve all hardscape needs.
Questions to Ask Before Signing
Before committing to any paver sealing service, ask these essential questions:
- What specific defects are covered under your warranty?
- What maintenance is required to keep the warranty valid?
- Are there any exclusions I should know about?
- How long does the warranty last, and is it transferable?
- What’s your process for handling warranty claims?
- Do you offer any extended warranty options?
The Bottom Line
While warranties provide valuable protection, understanding their limitations is crucial. Remember that warranty terms can change without notice as industry products and processes evolve, so it’s strongly suggested to print and save your warranty terms when services are rendered.
A quality paver sealing warranty should give you peace of mind, not confusion. By understanding what’s covered and what isn’t, you can make an informed decision and properly maintain your investment. Remember, proper maintenance is absolutely essential to maintain the beauty and extend the life expectancy of paver stones and the structures they create.
Take time to read the fine print, ask questions, and choose a reputable contractor who stands behind their work with clear, comprehensive warranty terms. Your outdoor investment deserves protection you can count on.
