When is it time to strip? Paver Stripping Basics

After spending twenty-five years manufacturing and selling paver sealers, I have realized how much time I allocate towards troubleshooting paver sealer issues. Many problems that arise with paver sealers include some variation of discoloration or delimitation to the product over time. The hazy or milky appearance that we observe can be attributed to a buildup or over-application of the sealer. Other common recurring issues that we notice are efflorescence, improper sanding, and whitening due to moisture. Often, the only solution to these problems is to strip the pavers back to its original state and reseal.

Colorback Horizontal Hard Surface Stripper being applied using a paint roller.

For many years, the paver stripping process was considered too difficult for homeowners and even some professionals to take on. These jobs usually involved sandblasting the surface which can remove a thin layer of the paver surface and result in exposed aggregate and loss of color. An alternative method used was chemically stripping the surface with methylene chloride-based strippers which proved to be harmful to workers, equipment, and the environment. Eventually, methylene chloride-based strippers were removed from the market and left the industry with few alternatives.

As Acrylux researched solutions to this newfound problem, we partnered with a company with many years of experience in the paint and varnish stripping business. Together, we were able to formulate a paver sealer remover that was environmentally friendly, easy to apply, and reasonably priced. The introduction of Colorback Hard Surface Stripper was groundbreaking as it allowed well-trained contractors as well as homeowners to easily remove multiple coats of sealer with only a paint roller and a pressure cleaner.

Colorback Horizontal Hard Surface Stripper being removed using a pressure cleaner and a hover cover.

Pavers after being successfully stripped.

In congruence with our other paver products, contractors can strip, sand, and reseal pavers in a single workday. This simplified a process that could take up to three- or four-days years before. Stripping pavers has now become routine and more affordable due to these advancements. More information on the Colorback Hard Surface Stripper can be found below.