What happens if you don't seal interlock pavers in Vancouver?

Sealing interlock pavers is not mandatory in Metro Vancouver, but skipping it means accepting more maintenance and potentially shorter lifespan for your investment. Unsealed pavers will still function perfectly as a hardscape surface, but they'll require more frequent cleaning and joint sand replenishment in our persistently wet climate.

The primary consequences of not sealing pavers in Metro Vancouver relate directly to our marine climate conditions. With over 1,200mm of annual rainfall and 60-80% humidity levels year-round, unsealed concrete pavers absorb moisture more readily. This creates ideal conditions for moss, algae, and liverwort growth on paver surfaces — especially on north-facing installations or areas shaded by trees and buildings. Moss growth isn't just aesthetic; it creates genuinely slippery surfaces during our October-to-March rainy season, particularly dangerous on walkways and steps.

Staining and weathering occur more rapidly on unsealed pavers. Oil drips from vehicles penetrate deeper into unsealed concrete, making driveway stains much harder to remove. Organic matter like fallen leaves, tree sap, and bird droppings also penetrate the paver surface rather than sitting on top where they can be easily cleaned. Unsealed pavers develop a weathered, aged appearance faster — which some homeowners actually prefer for a more natural look, while others want to maintain that fresh, vibrant colour longer.

Joint sand erosion accelerates without sealer protection. Even high-quality polymeric sand degrades faster when the surrounding pavers aren't sealed. Vancouver's heavy winter rains wash away joint sand more aggressively when water can penetrate both the joints and the paver surfaces simultaneously. This means you'll likely need to replenish polymeric sand every 2-3 years instead of every 4-5 years with sealed pavers.

However, there are legitimate reasons to skip sealing. Some homeowners prefer the natural weathering process and don't mind the additional maintenance. Sealing also requires reapplication every 3-5 years in Metro Vancouver's climate, adding ongoing cost and maintenance. Poor sealing jobs can look worse than no sealing — white hazing, peeling, and blotchy appearance are common when sealer is applied to wet pavers, over efflorescence, or with inadequate surface preparation.

If you choose not to seal, focus on excellent joint sand maintenance. Use premium polymeric sand like Techniseal or Alliance, ensure proper activation, and replenish it promptly when joints appear empty or moss starts growing through. Regular pressure washing (1,500-2,500 PSI with a surface cleaner attachment) removes moss and algae before they establish deep root systems.

Most Metro Vancouver homeowners eventually choose to seal their pavers after experiencing a few seasons of moss growth and staining. The protection against moisture penetration, easier cleaning, and enhanced colour retention typically outweigh the cost and maintenance of sealing in our wet climate.

Need help finding an interlock contractor to assess your sealing options? Vancouver Interlock can match you with experienced professionals who understand Metro Vancouver's unique climate challenges.

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Find a Interlock & Paver Contractor

Vancouver Interlock connects you with experienced contractors through the https://vancouverconstructionnetwork.com:

• Scandia paving Ltd ✓
• Vertex Property Solutions Inc. ✓
• Broadway Blacktop Ltd. ✓