- 1). Test the brick to see if it's time to apply Thompson's Waterseal by sprinkling water on the brick. If the water is absorbed within five seconds it is ready to be sealed. New brick patio installations where concrete mortar was used should be completely cured before applying sealer.
- 2). Move all patio furnishing, plants and other objects that could come in contact with the cleaning solution or sealer. Wrap plastic around anything that cannot be moved.
- 3). Use a push broom to remove any surface dust, dirt and debris from the patio.
- 4). Apply a cleaner that is formulated to cleanse brick and rid it of algae, mold and mildew, with a plastic garden sprayer. Let the cleanser stay on the brick for 15 minutes and then scrub it with a stiff bristle brush. If you have any grease or oil stains be sure to select a cleanser that has a degreasing element. Rinse your sprayer with water and put it away. Allow four days for the patio to dry completely.
- 5). Sweep the surface to remove any dirt, dust or leaves that have accumulated while the patio was drying.
- 6). Test the clarity and finish of the sealer by dipping the tip of a paintbrush in the sealer and painting a light coat on one brick in an inconspicuous spot. Wait 15 minutes for it to dry and approve the look and finish before applying it to the rest of the patio.
- 7). Fill a sprayer with the sealer to the fill line and spray the brick patio with a light coating. Use a horizontal back and forth overlapping motion while spraying to avoid puddling. If you do apply an excess in one area redistribute the sealer with a paintbrush within 15 minutes of application. Allow it to dry for at least 48 hours and do an additional water penetration test before applying a second coat or moving the furniture back onto the patio.
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