Welcome to the final chapter of our 5-part DIY paver installation series for St. Augustine and St. Johns homeowners. With your coastal pavers laid, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your patio, walkway, or driveway. Historic Coast Pavers shares expert tips to complete your outdoor living space, ensuring it thrives in St. Augustine’s salty air and storms.
Why Finishing Matters for Coastal Pavers
Proper finishing locks your pavers in place, enhances durability, and boosts curb appeal in St. Johns’ coastal climate. Joint sanding and sealing protect against St. Augustine’s humidity, salt, and heavy rains, ensuring a low-maintenance surface that can increase home value by up to 10%, per landscaping studies.
Step 1: Fill Joints with Polymeric Sand
Spread polymeric sand (like Alliance Gator, $30 per 50-pound bag) over your St. Augustine pavers, sweeping it into joints with a broom. This sand hardens when wet, preventing weeds and stabilizing pavers in St. Johns’ storms. Mist lightly with a hose to activate, following product instructions. Remove excess sand to avoid haze.
Step 2: Compact the Pavers
Use a plate compactor ($50/day rental) to settle pavers into the sand bed, ensuring a firm surface for your St. Augustine patio or driveway. Compact in multiple passes, checking for level. Add more polymeric sand if joints sink, then re-compact. This step is crucial for coastal pavers’ longevity.
Step 3: Seal for Coastal Protection
Apply a salt-resistant sealant (like Seal ‘n Lock SuperWet, $150 per 5 gallons) to protect pavers from St. Johns’ corrosion and UV fading. Clean pavers thoroughly first, then use a roller or sprayer for even coverage. Seal 60 days after installation, then every 2-3 years. Let dry 24 hours, avoiding St. Augustine’s rainy days.
Step 4: Final Touches
Enhance your project with coastal flair:
- Add solar paver lights ($20 each) for St. Johns walkway safety.
- Border with native plants like sea oats for St. Augustine’s beachy vibe.
- Clean tools and dispose of debris at a local landfill.Inspect for loose pavers or uneven spots, fixing immediately.
Enjoy Your Coastal Masterpiece
Your paver project is complete, ready for St. Augustine gatherings or St. Johns strolls. Regular maintenance—hosing weekly, resealing periodically—keeps it pristine.
Ready to finish your coastal paver project? Historic Coast Pavers offers expert support for St. Augustine and St. Johns DIYers. Contact us at Historic Coast Pavers for a free consultation today!