I've recently used Smartseal's Matt Block Paving Sealer for the first time on an area of around 250 square metres. Obviously, it's too soon to comment on the longevity of the product, but I can make a few observations on the performance of Smartseal in getting the product to me and on its application. Information on delivery was scant. Access issues at my property mean that I need to be at home for all deliveries of large/heavy items that can't be brought to a secure area when a large delivery vehicle is involved. I requested a call from the delivery company so I could be sure to be around, but this only happened once (I had 2 deliveries) and that call was just minutes before drop off. It was just luck that meant I received both deliveries without major hitch. It seems that Smartseal opt for a budget delivery option (to be expected when delivery is "free" on all items over 75) which is fine when it works, but carries risks when communication comes up short as in my case. I would rate them just 2 or 3 out of 5 for delivery. Personally, I'd rather at least have the option of paying another few quid for delivery via a reputable carrier with notifications and online tracking. I found the product quite easy to apply using a sprayer, although decanting from the 25L drums into even a 12L a sprayer vessel comes with its challenges - I need more time in the gym ! As with most jobs around the house, preparation is absolutely critical. I found myself spending around 5-10x as much time on preparation as on application. Careful prep is essential because, for me at least, the main purpose of the sealing was to fix the joint sand to avoid having to tackle pesky weeds multiple times a year. The fact is that, although, the surface of your old pavers will probably look a lot better after sealing assuming you've done a decent job of cleaning them, the joints won't go hard unless you've first cleared out all the crap that accumulates in them through the years. If the joints aren't fixed solid, the weed problem is sure to return. The sealer needs to soak into dry sand filling the joints to be effective - any moisture present risks rendering the sealer useless. Hence my recommendation is, whenever possible, seal as soon as the pavers are laid ! I got quite stressed waiting for the right weather as the job needs a few dry days after jet washing (but not so many that dirt accumulates again) for the joints to dry out + a guaranteed dry day (but not too hot, cold, or windy if spraying) for sanding and sealing. Even in August, I had to sweat to find the right working conditions. My only other observation is that, as with most painting-type jobs, sealing the edges takes just as long sealing the main area. Also, be careful to shield against overspray as the sealer can change the colour of adjoining painted walls, asphalt, etc. In summary, a decent product and I'm glad (so far) that I used it, but think hard about whether you're prepared to face the slog of the prep needed to reap the full benefits.

Having read a lot of reviews about which block paving sealer to use for my drive, I weighed up all the options and I opted for Smartseal. Only time will tell if it lasts as long as it states it should but if initial results are anything to go by, I am very confident that my decision was correct. The negative things about it first. It's not cheap!!! However, if it lasts as long as it should, it will be cost effective. The finish is perfect. I have been asked if I have had the bricks relaid or replaced. Neighbours have commented about the transformation of the drive which is testament to the product. Preparation is key to a good finish so it was important for me to take the time to clean the drive thoroughly, sand the drive well, leave the sand to settle then re-sand the areas where the sand needed to be topped up. I applied the sealant with a sprayer. I felt this would be better to get a more even coat and I was very pleased with the way it went on. The sealant is quite sticky so I had to clean the nozzle of the sprayer 3 or 4 times during the application to ensure a good even spray. I left the drive for 24 hours before applying the 2nd coat for no other reason than it is a large drive and each coat took 50 litres of sealant. After the 2nd coat had dried, the results are amazing. The drive looks pristine. The sand is hard so this should help prevent weeds and ants. All in all I am very impressed and I hope this review will help those who are undecided about the product. I would definitely recommend the sealant and I hope that the drive will be relatively low maintenance for the next 5 years at least..

Have used around 40 ltrs to cover my existing block paving but needed more than normal to seal a section that has been added plus they were deep blocks took a while but looks great now and the water runs off it all sand fully hardened so hopefully wont need to do it again, great customer service too when advise needed, cant thank them enough great product. ?