If you're thinking about sealing your pavers, whether it’s your driveway, pool deck, or patio, one of the most important steps comes before the sealer ever touches the surface: pressure washing.

It’s not just about making them look better before sealing. It’s about making the seal last longer, perform better, and actually stick.

So yes, you absolutely need to pressure wash before sealing your pavers, especially here in Florida. Let’s break down why.

Why Pressure Washing Is Non-Negotiable

Sealers bond best to clean, dry, and porous surfaces. If your pavers are covered in:

  • Mold or mildew
  • Dirt, sand, or grime
  • Old failed sealer
  • Rust or irrigation stains

…then applying a fresh sealer over that junk is like painting over dust. It may look okay at first, but it won’t last.

What Happens If You Skip This Step?

Here’s what often happens when someone skips pressure washing:

  • The sealer turns milky or blotchy
  • It traps dirt or algae underneath
  • It peels or flakes early
  • You end up calling us to fix it

We see this all the time in areas like Telaro, PGA Verano, and Heron Preserve, where homeowners DIY the sealing or hire someone who cuts corners.

How Pressure Washing Prepares Pavers for Sealing

Pressure washing:

  • Opens up the pores of the paver so the sealer can soak in
  • Flushes out the joints between pavers for clean re-sanding
  • Restores the color of faded or algae-covered pavers
  • Creates an even surface so the sealer dries consistently

Think of it like prepping a canvas before painting, if the foundation isn’t clean, the final product will never look right.

Should I Do It Myself or Hire a Pro?

If you’re sealing your own pavers, yes, you can rent a pressure washer and try to do it yourself. But here’s the catch:

Most homeowners don’t have the right equipment or technique to:

  • Use the correct PSI and surface cleaner
  • Remove old sealer buildup safely
  • Clean deep between paver joints
  • Avoid damaging delicate edges

That’s why many homeowners in Port St. Lucie and surrounding areas of The Treasure Coast turn to us for professional prep and sealing, so they don’t waste money sealing over grime.

When We Pressure Wash Before Sealing

At A Buff & Beyond, we always pressure wash as part of our paver sealing process. Here's how we do it:

  • Inspect the surface for buildup, stains, or sealant issues
  • Use commercial-grade surface cleaners and edge tools
  • Rinse thoroughly without leaving detergent residue
  • Let the surface dry completely before sealing
  • Re-sand joints if needed and apply the sealer evenly

The result? Long-lasting protection, rich color, and a clean finish your HOA will love.

How Long Should You Wait After Pressure Washing?

Pavers should be completely dry before sealing, typically 24 to 48 hours, depending on:

  • What can take full pressure
  • What needs soft washing
  • What should never be blasted at all

Skipping this step can cause the sealer to trap moisture, leading to haziness or delamination.

Summary: What You CAN Pressure Wash

Yes, pressure washing is a must before sealing your pavers. It ensures better adhesion, deeper penetration, and longer-lasting results. And if you care about how your driveway, patio, or pool deck looks in the Florida sun, you don’t want to skip it.