Contents
Do you have new decorative concrete floors that need sealing, but can’t pick up product? Or maybe just want to get more informed on the products?
There are many places where concrete needs to be sealed. Many people do not realize that concrete is not waterproof. Homeowners with concrete foundations or basement walls should be aware that moisture can saturate concrete and cause many problems.
In other instances such as garages, it is important for concrete to be resistant to chemicals. It should also be easy to clean and have traction so as to reduce the incidence of slips and falls.
Whether you are considering installing concrete flooring or already have it installed, you want to be sure that you properly seal the floor in order to sustain its beauty. Your beautiful concrete floors are susceptible to damage if you do not seal it properly and it is trodden upon or has furniture dragged across it and so on.
This may not be so vital for a garage floor. Even so, if you have gone to all the expense of having concrete installed inside your home then it is essential that it be sealed for protection. For the garage, you might consider epoxy paint that you can read about here.
How it works
Concrete sealers will penetrate the surface of the concrete to seal them, protecting the surface from chemicals, moisture, and weathering. Prior to sealing a concrete surface, it is helpful to apply a preparation gel that will open up the pores of the surface and allow for better penetration of the sealer or finish.
These preparations will also help remove mineral deposits, rust, grease, and other substances to give your concrete surface a clean look when finished. Not only outlook, it will also help the sealers to adhere as nonclean surface is never a good option.
A concrete floor sealer will ensure that any substance spills of chemicals or liquids are not absorbed. Daily life occurrences can cause your floors to chip and crack more easily than you may consider. You can prevent this from occurring by following these steps.
To achieve the best results you should have your concrete flooring sealed soon after installation. They have no protection from dirt or spills if you do not seal them promptly. Once a concrete floor absorbs stains, it is very difficult to correct the problem.
Make sure that the floor is level and displays no cracks before you seal your concrete flooring. You should repair any chips or cracks using a repair compound. Doing so will also help eliminate any dampness from setting in, which can become a major dilemma in your basement.
The concrete must be level and include no hollows, chips, or cracks, as you should fill them with a repair compound. Repairing cracks allows you to prevent the absorption of dampness that can cause problems as well as give your floors a much better appearance. When you use a repair compound, be sure to give it plenty of time to dry completely before applying a sealer.
While shopping for a concrete sealer, you will notice that they are available in two types, penetrants, and film formers. Siloxanes, silanes, and silicates are penetrating sealers; they are designed to seal exterior concrete, which is subject to corrosion and frost.
You will use film-forming sealers for your interior concrete flooring. These concrete sealers are designed to form a film over the flooring that makes it shiny. Nevertheless, it is not as simple as browsing through your local hardware store and requesting a film-forming concrete sealer. There are three types from which you can choose.
Concrete sealer types
The following sealers are the most common ones I’ve seen during my career. All of them have their spot on sealing world so no need to mind it too much if you got one already and it doesn’t seem to match at the moment.
Acrylic Sealers
These sealers are either solvent or water-based. They are cheap and easy to use. Generally, you apply these to exterior flooring since they can protect against UV light and water exposure. Acrylic sealers are not hard-wearing since they are thinner and require more frequent re-application, this can be a major disadvantage.
Epoxy Sealers
These sealers are ideal for concrete flooring since they are hard to wear and last a long time. You should consider the appearance you wish to achieve before making a purchase since they are available in clear and tinted finishes.
Polyurethane Sealers
These sealers are either solvent or water-based. They are thicker than acrylic sealers and are able to withstand abrasions and chemicals. However, if they are exposed to water bubbling and foaming may occur. Remember, the polyurethane needs its own time to dry and cure. It might take several days for the best results.
After repairing any chips or cracks in the concrete, you can then apply your sealer. Keep in mind that epoxy sealers are the best type of sealer to use for your concrete flooring. Be sure that you purchase enough sealer by measuring the size of your room before you begin applying your concrete sealer.
Anti-Slip concrete sealers
Slip-resistant concrete floor sealers are relatively easy to apply and increase the coefficient of friction of your floors. This is particularly important in settings where water or spills are present or a significant factor. Because slips, trips, and falls account for the highest proportion of overall accidents, it is wise for managers to consider coating concrete floors with anti-slip treatments.
For high traffic areas where traction is a vital concern, concrete sealers that contain granules for friction are a good solution. Ramps, walkways, shower rooms, loading docks, and swimming pool decks are just a few locations where these concrete sealers might be important. You can choose from clear or a variety of colors, and you can choose high or low profile sealers.
Conclusion
These were the 4 concrete floor sealer options that are most commonly used. I’ve used all of them and they all have their own uses.
Remember that you should always work on clean surface when you’re sealing and don’t put it on top of moisture. Let the slab dry in peace before applying.
Also, for new concrete let it cure for 28 days like it’s supposed to. This way you get the proper results that you’re looking for.
