Maximize Durability: Your Ultimate Guide to Concrete Sealant
Concrete Sealant: The Ultimate Guide for a Durable Finish
Introduction to Concrete Sealant
What is Concrete Sealant?
Besides water, concrete is the most commonly found material on the planet. With all that concrete (and all that water), we had to find a way to protect it from the damage caused by exposure to moisture. That is where concrete sealants came into play. Years ago, people used waxes or oils to coat their concrete surfaces or structures, but today, we have an entire industry dedicated to sealing concrete and preserving its looks and function.
Benefits of Using Concrete Sealant
Using concrete sealant keeps new concrete looking new for longer and can rejuvenate aging concrete. The primary purpose of using concrete sealer is to increase the lifespan of concrete by up to 10 years or more. This is especially true in areas with a wider range of temperatures and weather. Moisture freezing and thawing inside a concrete slab or structure is one of the biggest threats to its longevity.
Different Types of Concrete Sealants
There are two main ways concrete sealants prevent moisture saturation. Topical sealers create a barrier between the concrete’s surface and the outside world, while penetrating sealers actually seep into the concrete’s pores and cause a moisture-blocking reaction. Beneath these two main categories, there are several different brands and types of sealants.
Preparation Before Applying Concrete Sealant
Cleaning the Concrete Surface
Before you seal your concrete, it is important that you know what exactly you are sealing into it. Make sure that the surface of the concrete is free and clear of debris, big and small. Using a blower and a broom is a great way to ensure you are not sealing in unsightly or damaging materials.