Can You Tint Sealed Pavers Or Is The Color Locked In? Here's What To Know

Outdoor pavers are an excellent way to give your patios, driveway, and walkways some character. But after a while, you might notice that the color needs to be retouched, or maybe you're getting tired of it altogether. Instead of worrying about replacing your old pavers, all you need is a stain to get a brand new look.  

Brick and concrete are among the most common pavers because they're some of the best stones to use. And luckily, they're also easy to re-color. While there's a lot of stains available, make sure you pick one designed for whatever type of pavers you have. Once you made your purchase, prepare it according to the manufacturer's instructions, and test it on a small section of pavers before committing to a whole project. Factors like the original color and your stones' porosity can impact final results, so testing can save you some headaches down the line. 

If you're satisfied with your stain, start out by properly preparing the area by getting rid of any weeds, sweeping, and spraying it down with water. Then, you can use either a sprayer or brush to apply the stain. One coat may be enough for the job, but keep an eye on your pavers determine if it needs another. Leave the area alone while it dries and then reapply a sealant to ensure that your hard work looks good for as long as possible. 

Staining pavers isn't the only way to change their color. You can purchase tinted sealants or add tint yourself, but keep in mind that many of these products are advertised as restoring your pavers' old color. If you want a dramatic change, then staining is likely your best option. In addition to staining or tinting, you can also change the sand that's in between your pavers to get a different look. Regardless of whether you're using paver or polymeric sand, you can find a variety of colors to further enhance their aesthetic. 

Now, you may be thinking, "What about painting? That sounds easy." You can paint your pavers, but you probably won't be happy with the process or the results. To start, pavers are porous, so you'll need a few coats of paint to even get the color you want. Paint will also make your pavers slippery, especially when wet, and may easily fade due to sun exposure. If you do decide to go ahead with paint, then make sure you pick one that is intended for outdoor use. But ultimately, staining is your best bet for a long-lasting change.