As the last of the landscaping projects are squeezed in before winter, Chris Fletcher, Technical Services Chemist at Thompson’s, explores the products available to keep patios and block paving protected from the inclement weather ahead.
A new patio, driveway or paved area can look great when it is first laid but the effects of weather, algae growth and general use can soon take its toll. Water ingress can also cause issues – as it seeps into the substrate softening it over time, meaning the surface can become uneven and look like it was not laid correctly. Therefore, treating and protecting the surface is important, not only for maintaining the like-new appearance for longer but also for extending the life of the paving materials.
To achieve this, professionals should choose a specially formulated sealant such as Thompson’s Patio and Block Paving Seal, which is designed to enhance and protect paved areas, with a choice of finishes available including one coat clear, satin and wet look. The solvent-based acrylic resin solution protects the surface from weathering, resists moss and algae growth, prevents dirt staining and makes the area easier to clean. It can be used to protect a wide range of materials including block paving, flag stones, sandstone, limestone and granite. It’s also ideal for areas where vehicles will be parked, as it will protect the paving from oil and fuel spills.
For speed of application and convenience for the customer, it is worth selecting a product with short drying times. For example, Thompson’s Patio & Block Paving Seal will be touch dry in approximately one hour and can be recoated after four hours. The surface can be walked on four hours after the topcoat has dried and can accept heavy traffic after just 24 hours. Thompson’s also offers One Coat Patio & Block Paving Seal to speed up the application further and allow the job to be completed in as little as a day.
While the solvent-based formulation also gives products such as Thompson’s Patio & Block Paving Seal excellent slip resistance, some customers may require additional protection to ensure safety. To achieve this Thompson’s Patio & Block Paving Anti Slip Additive, supplied in granular form, can be mixed into the block paving seal before it is applied.
To find out more about Thompson’s and its wide range of cleaning and waterproofing products visit: www.thompsonsweatherproofing.co.uk.
