Why Sealing Your Concrete is Essential: Protecting Your Investment

Introduction

Overview of Concrete as a Building Material

Concrete has been used in construction for hundreds of years, and for good reason. It is fairly inexpensive to produce, the raw materials are readily available, and it is strong, versatile, and durable. From sidewalks to skyscrapers, concrete can be found at almost any construction site in the modern world.

The Importance of Concrete Maintenance

Even though concrete is naturally stronger than other building materials, it is still important to properly maintain your concrete surfaces and structures to keep them functioning properly for a long time. Just like other features of your home or business, your concrete is part of your investment. This guide will explain sealing concrete, the different ways to do it, and why it is key to proper concrete maintenance.

The Benefits of Sealing Concrete

Protection Against Water Damage

Sealing your concrete is one of the best ways to prevent water from seeping into the often-porous surface and causing damage to the concrete below. A lot of cracking and breaking can be linked to excessive moisture penetrating the concrete.  

Resistance to Stains and Discolorations

In the same way that sealing your concrete prevents moisture from permeating the surface, it can also prevent other liquids that leave a more immediately noticeable mark, like oil or paint. Concrete can also be discolored over time by the harsh rays of the sun. Sealants can help prevent some of these harmful rays from causing color changes in your concrete.

Enhanced Durability and Longevity

Sealing your concrete can strengthen your driveway or floors in the face of inclement weather or damaging environmental factors. Sealing your concrete can extend its lifespan by a decade or even more when properly done! If you could extend your own lifespan by a decade by putting in a few hours of work, it would be a no-brainer!

Improved Aesthetic Appeal

Just like painting the interior or exterior of a house can make a huge difference to curb appeal, sealing your concrete can have a huge impact on the overall aesthetic appeal of your home or business. Sealing your concrete can rejuvenate aging surfaces or make new ones appear even better.

Types of Concrete Sealers

Penetrating Sealers

As the name suggests, penetrating sealers penetrate the concrete's surface and chemically change its structure. This can make the concrete less likely to be damaged by water and help prevent damage from moisture inside the concrete from freezing and thawing.

Acrylic Sealers

Acrylic sealers are applied to the tops of concrete surfaces and provide a thin barrier between the world and your concrete. They are easily applied, but it may take several coats and regular maintenance to get the desired effect for perpetuity.

Epoxy or Urethane Sealers

These sealers, like acrylic sealers, are applied to the concrete’s surface and act as a buffer between the concrete and whatever elements or wear it is exposed to. The main difference is that epoxy and urethane sealers are thicker and, therefore, tend to last longer.

How to Choose the Right Sealer for Your Concrete

Considerations Based on Concrete Type and Use

There is no one correct sealer to use for all concrete. It really depends on the type of concrete, the location, and the amount of traffic expected for the surface. If you want to protect your driveway from the elements, a penetrating sealer would likely be appropriate. If you are trying to protect the interior floor of something, like a museum that will likely experience high traffic for a long time, epoxy or urethane sealers are ideal. If you have a basement floor that doesn’t see much weather or traffic, an acrylic sealer will give you added protection for an affordable price.

Understanding the Environment: Climate and Exposure

When deciding to seal your concrete, be sure to factor in the specific climate and weather in your area. For example, if you live in Florida, you probably aren’t too worried about the deicing properties of your sealer. If you live in Alaska, however, you are likely much more concerned. Products like GoNano’s are versatile and durable no matter where you live.

Matching Sealer to Maintenance Expectations

When choosing a concrete sealant, consider the amount of traffic the surface will be subjected to and the importance of maintaining an immaculate surface appearance. For example, a mechanic garage is probably less concerned about the appearance of its concrete than your local boutique.

Application Tips for Concrete Sealers

Preparing Your Concrete for Sealing

Whatever type of concrete sealer you choose, you should ensure that the surface you are sealing is clear of objects like furniture or vehicles. Then, sweep or blow the surface to ensure that there is no debris. Be sure to remove any grease. Mop the surface and wait for it to dry completely before beginning the sealing process.

Best Practices for Sealer Application

After prepping your surface, you can either spray or roll it on. Start with the edges and work your way in. If it is an interior surface, be sure that the area is well-ventilated. Work your way towards the exit from the other side of the room so you don’t have to walk through the sealant. Finally, allow it to dry completely before touching, walking on, or driving on the newly sealed surface.

Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Sealed Concrete

As mentioned above, sealed concrete can extend your concrete’s lifespan by 10 years or more. To get maximum benefits and durability, watch for any signs of surface scuffs or cracks. Some situations may require you to reapply every couple of years to ensure longevity.

Conclusion

Recap of Concrete Sealing Benefits

Sealing your concrete keeps it looking better than brand new for longer. In addition to the aesthetics, sealed concrete lasts longer and is less likely to crack, scuff, or otherwise be damaged.

Final Thoughts on Protecting Your Concrete Investment

For many people, their home or business is an investment for the future. Your concrete surfaces and structures are sometimes the literal foundation of that investment. Taking the time to protect your concrete might end up saving or making you much more money than what you put into that preservation!