What Is Driveway Sealing and Why Is It Done After Cleaning?
Sealing is the optional final step that protects a clean driveway and keeps it looking good for longer. Here is what it involves and whether it is worth it.
Sealing is the optional final step that protects a freshly cleaned driveway and keeps it looking good for longer. A quality sealer forms a protective barrier against water, dirt, oil and organic growth, making the surface easier to maintain and slower to stain.
This guide explains what driveway sealing is, why it is done after cleaning rather than before and the benefits and trade-offs to weigh up when deciding whether it is worth it for your surface.
What sealing is
Driveway sealing means applying a protective coating over a clean, dry surface. The sealer soaks in and forms a barrier that repels water and contaminants. It is always done after cleaning, because sealing over dirt or moss would simply lock the problem in.
The benefits of sealing
Sealing offers several advantages, particularly on block paving.
| Benefit | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Stain resistance | Oil, dirt and grime sit on top, so they wipe away more easily. |
| Weed and moss resistance | A barrier makes it harder for growth to take hold in joints. |
| Colour enhancement | Sealers can deepen and restore the colour of the surface. |
| Joint stability | On block paving, sealing helps hold the jointing sand in place. |
Sealing also tends to reduce how often a driveway needs an intensive clean, since contaminants find it harder to establish.
Block paving benefits most, while not every surface needs or suits sealing.
Sealing needs a dry surface and a dry spell to cure properly.
Block paving joints should be re-sanded before sealing for best results.
Sealers wear over time and need redoing every few years.
Thinking about sealing your driveway?
Tell us about your surface and our London team will advise whether sealing is worthwhile and give you a clear fixed price with no obligation.
Why it comes after cleaning
Sealing only works on a clean, dry surface. Cleaning removes the dirt, moss and old jointing sand first. For block paving the joints are then re-sanded before sealing, which we explain in our guide on what block paving re-sanding involves. Sealing also helps a clean last longer, as covered in how long a clean driveway stays looking good.
Is it worth it?
For block paving and many porous surfaces, sealing is a worthwhile investment that reduces maintenance and protects the look. It is an added cost and needs redoing every few years, so it comes down to how long you want the results to last. Sealing usually follows the main clean, which we describe in our guide on what to expect during a professional clean.
For advice on whether sealing suits your driveway, the team behind our London driveway cleaning service is happy to help.
This article is part of our wider resource centre. For more practical advice, browse our London driveway cleaning guides.
Frequently asked questions
What is driveway sealing?
Applying a protective coating over a clean, dry surface. The sealer soaks in and forms a barrier that repels water, dirt, oil and organic growth.
Why is sealing done after cleaning?
Sealing only works on a clean, dry surface. Sealing over dirt or moss would lock the problem in, so the driveway is cleaned and dried first.
What are the benefits of sealing?
Better stain resistance, less weed and moss growth, enhanced colour and, on block paving, more stable jointing sand. It also reduces how often you need to deep clean.
How long does sealing last?
A quality sealer typically lasts two to three years before it needs reapplying, depending on the surface and how heavily the driveway is used.
Does every driveway need sealing?
No. Block paving and porous surfaces benefit most. Some surfaces do not need it, so a professional assessment helps decide if it is worthwhile.
This page gives general guidance on driveway sealing in London. Whether sealing is suitable, plus which product to use, depends on your surface material and its condition.
Protect your driveway for longer
Get a fast, no-obligation quote for professional driveway cleaning across London. We will advise whether sealing suits your surface and agree a clear fixed price before any work begins.