Brick paving is a popular choice for many homeowners because of its classic look and durability. However, one common source of confusion is how to tell if the bricks are sealed. Sealing is an important part of maintaining brick pavers, as it protects them from staining and weather damage. Fortunately, you can do a few simple tests to determine if your bricks are sealed.
Judge by the Brick’s Color
If you want to determine whether the brick is sealed, one way to tell is by its color. Unsealed brick is typically a deep red, while sealed brick is more light pink. The reason is that the sealer prevents the bricks from absorbing moisture, which causes them to change color. If you’re unsure whether a brick has been sealed, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and assume that it is not. This way, you can take steps to protect it from the elements. Of course, you can always ask the previous owner or the person who installed the brickwork, but if you want to do it yourself, this is a good way to tell.
Rub Your Thumb over the Surface of the Brick
One of the best ways to know whether a brick is sealed is by rubbing your thumb over the brick’s surface. If the brick feels smooth, it’s likely sealed. The reason is that sealants provide a smooth, protective layer over the brick’s surface that helps prevent dirt and moisture from seeping in. In addition, sealed bricks are more resistant to staining and easier to clean. So, if you’re looking for a brick that will be low-maintenance and long-lasting, it’s a good idea to choose one that’s sealed.
Splashing Water on the Brick
Another way to tell is how water beads on the surface of the brick. Unsealed brick will absorb water, while sealed brick repels it. The science behind this is that when water comes into contact with unsealed brick, it causes the pores in the brick to expand. This expansion allows the water to penetrate the surface of the brick and be absorbed. However, when water comes into contact with sealed brick, the sealant fills in the pores and prevents them from expanding. As a result, the water is repelled and beads up on the surface of the brick. So, the next time you need to determine if a brick is sealed, just give it a little spray of water and see how the water reacts.
Get Professional Help
Hire a professional service if you’re still unsure whether your brick is sealed. Sealed brick is important because it helps to protect the brick from weathering and staining. It also makes it easier to clean. If you’re in the Grand Rapids area, professional service like DC Byers is a great option to help you decide on your brick issue. They’ll examine your brick and give you an accurate assessment. So, call them now at 616-538-7300 and book an appointment with their technicians.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can easily determine whether your bricks are sealed and take the steps to protect them. If you have unsealed brick, it’s more susceptible to dirt and grime buildup and could be difficult to clean. If you’re still unsure whether your brick is sealed, the best thing to do is ask a professional like DC Byers. Their teams of professional experts have many years of experience dealing with sealed and unsealed bricks. They’ll confidently confirm the outcome and help you decide what to do next.