Concrete sealer is important for protecting surfaces from water damage caused by freeze/thaw cycles, stains from dirt, deicing salts, oil and other waste product, and much more. So, if you’ve just set up the decorative concrete masterpiece of your dreams, make assured it gets sealed.

Types of Concrete Sealer

1. Topical Sealers

Topical Sealers can give visual enhancement as well as a topical shield from stains and chemicals. They need a dry, clean surface during application to gain adhesion. Topical sealers may modify the coefficient of friction which can produce substrates slick when wet – a condition that can be treated by adding anti-skid materials. Life span is generally 1-5 years, although high-end epoxy/urethane arrangements can last significantly longer.

2. Penetrating Sealers

Penetrating sealers uses to dry or damp surfaces and should accurately matched with substrate porosity to adequately penetrate the surface and react. The chemical reaction bonds active ingredients within the substrate blocking surface precipitation. Penetrating sealers generally do not significantly alter substrate features or traction. Lifespan is generally 5 years or more.

3. Acrylic Resins

Acrylic resins make a topical film membrane on the substrate surface. They are accessible in both water-based and solvent-based formulas, affordable, and generally simple to apply. They are well known to increase noticed visual enhancement and can provide good UV protection for colored substrates.

 

4. Epoxy/Urethane Systems

Epoxy/urethane systems are also topical film layers. They share many of the same properties as acrylics, but the performance levels and life span are superior and commensurately more expensive with more complex installation specifications.

Read here about Concrete Stain

 

5. Silane

Silane is the least molecular compound of generally available penetrating sealers. Chemically, Silane forms a covalent bond within acceptable masonry that sets surface pores.

 

6. Silicates

Silicates are another tiny molecular compound varying from premium lithium silicates to economical sodium silicates.

 

7. Siliconates

Siliconates are moderate-size molecular compound. Chemically, Siliconates form a repellent cross-linking layer barrier within the exterior of penetrable concrete and another masonry.

8. Siloxane

Siloxane is the largest molecular compound of commonly possible penetrating sealers. Although not extremely reactive, chemically siloxane forms a bond within penetrable masonry that clots surface pores.

Whether it’s a pattern-stamped pool deck or patio, an interlocking paver driveway, an acid-stained floor, or an exposed-aggregate walkway, a great sealer will retain it looking spectacular for many years to come while prolonging its service life. And even if the surface starts to show wear after years of exposure to traffic and the conditions, you can often recover its original beauty with a good cleaning and fresh sealer treatment.