Concrete is an investment worth taking care of and should last for a long time with the proper maintenance and TLC. If you want your concrete driveway, patio or flooring to withstand years of use and wear while still looking great, you should consider sealing it.
Sealing your concrete offers many benefits that will keep your interior and exterior concrete in good shape. Sealing helps to protect concrete from all the wear and tear – whether it’s the harsh weather, vehicles coming and going or foot traffic. It helps to enhance the appearance of the concrete itself, whether it’s decorative, stamped or regular concrete. An attractive driveway or patio space can help boost your home’s curb appeal and increase its resale value and – best of all – sealing concrete doesn’t require special or costly equipment!
Helpful Tips
Like you would for any product, be sure to read the label of the driveway sealer and look for certain keywords or phrases such as non-yellowing, waterproofing and resistance to oil and grease. These characteristics are important to ensure that your sealant not only lasts, but also protects the concrete from the conditions it may be exposed to. You should also check the application instructions to ensure you know what you’re doing. As always, it’s best to ask about any recommended sealer, and take any additional advice they have for you.
Types of Sealers
There are several different kinds of concrete sealer to choose from that offer different benefits.
Penetrating Sealers
These include silanes, silicates, siliconates and siloxanes which protect the concrete against moisture from damaging the surface. It’s suitable for exterior concrete surfaces, as it offers significant protection against rain and tends to resist deicing formulas that are commonly used in the winter.
Acrylic Sealers
This type of sealer is suitable for both interior and exterior concrete surfaces. A thin film protects the concrete against water and chloride, and can offer an extra sheen and polished appearance to concrete. Acrylic solvents also dry quickly, making them ideal for fast-moving projects.
Polyurethane Sealers
This transparent finish forms a thick protective film on the surface which is suitable for both indoor and outdoor concrete features. With this particular type of sealer on your driveway or patio, you’ll get an enhanced color and resistance to scuff marks, chemicals and other abrasive materials.
Epoxy Sealants
Epoxy is suitable for indoor use, and it commonly is used in heavy traffic areas, like schools, malls and office buildings. This is also a common choice for concrete counter tops, as it creates a thick protective film layer on the surface that is both water resistant and glossy in appearance.
If you’ve been thinking about sealing or re-sealing your concrete surfaces or are considering adding concrete to your home, give Templin Concrete Construction a call today at 612-388-1945.