How Often Should You Reseal a Block Paving Driveway?

Most block paving driveways benefit from resealing roughly every 2-4 years, though this varies with the sealant type used, how much traffic and weather the driveway gets, and how well it was sealed initially. There's no fixed rule that applies to every driveway — the honest answer is to reseal when the signs below appear, rather than purely by the calendar.

What sealing actually does

A sealant forms a protective layer over the block paviours and, in the joints, helps lock the jointing sand in place. This does three useful things: it makes the surface easier to clean (oil, moss and general dirt don't penetrate as deeply), it reduces weed growth through the joints, and it enhances the colour of the blocks, which otherwise fade with UV exposure over time. Sealing does not fix an already-failing driveway — sunken blocks, joints that have washed out, or a poorly compacted sub-base need proper repair first, not just a fresh coat of sealant over the top.

Signs your driveway needs resealing

• Water no longer beads on the surface — this is the clearest sign the existing sealant has worn through; a properly sealed driveway sheds water in visible droplets rather than soaking straight in.
• Increasing weed growth between the blocks, even after weeding, suggests the joint sand is no longer protected and is holding moisture and seeds.
• The colour looks faded or patchy compared to when it was new or last sealed.
• Sand is visibly washing or blowing out of the joints over time, which will eventually let the blocks move underfoot.

Typical cost

Resealing an average UK driveway (roughly 30-50 square metres) typically costs somewhere in the region of £300-£800 professionally, depending on size, the condition of the existing surface (heavy cleaning and weed treatment beforehand adds cost), and the type of sealant used. DIY sealant kits are available and can bring the cost down significantly for a competent, patient DIYer, but professional application tends to give a more even, longer-lasting finish since even coverage without streaking takes some practice.

DIY or professional?

Resealing itself is a realistic DIY job — the process is pressure-washing the surface thoroughly, allowing it to dry completely (often 24-48 hours, which is the step most DIYers underestimate), re-sanding any joints that have lost sand, and then applying the sealant evenly in the recommended weather conditions (dry, moderate temperature, no rain forecast for at least 24 hours). Where DIY commonly goes wrong is sealing over a damp surface, which traps moisture and can cause the sealant to whiten or peel, or applying too thick a coat, which can leave a patchy, glossy finish rather than the intended matte-to-satin look.

Common mistakes

• Skipping the weed and moss treatment first. Sealing over existing weed growth just traps it under the sealant rather than solving the problem.
• Not topping up jointing sand before sealing. Sealant works with the sand to lock joints, not as a replacement for it.
• Choosing the wrong finish. Some sealants leave a high-gloss "wet look" that some homeowners love and others find too shiny — check a sample area first if you're unsure.

If your driveway needs more than resealing — sunken areas, significant weed infestation through the base, or a full replacement — see our full driveway cost guide comparing block paving against resin and tarmac alternatives.

Types of sealant available

Solvent-based sealants tend to give the deepest colour enhancement and a slightly glossier finish, but have a stronger odour during application and require good ventilation — mainly a consideration if applying near an attached garage or open windows. Water-based sealants are lower-odour and easier to apply for a DIYer, with a slightly more subtle, natural-looking finish. Both types come in matte, satin and gloss finish options, and most manufacturers also offer a specific "resin-bound" style sealant that can help bind loose aggregate if that's part of your driveway's construction. Whichever you choose, always check the sealant is compatible with your specific block paving material (concrete blocks and clay pavers can behave differently), and test a small, inconspicuous area first if you're unsure how it will look.

How long resealing takes

For an average driveway, allow a full day for pressure washing and thorough drying (which may need to happen a day ahead if conditions are damp), then a half-day to a full day for sanding joints and applying sealant, depending on driveway size and whether two coats are needed. Most sealants need at least 24-48 hours to cure before the driveway can be driven on again, so plan around having alternative parking arranged for a couple of days if it's your only driveway.

If in doubt about which sealant or finish to choose, ask your supplier for a small test sample to try on an inconspicuous corner of the driveway before committing to the whole surface — colours can look noticeably different once applied compared to how they appear in a tin or on a swatch.