Sealing Your Concrete Project Properly

by Kevin Smith Author

A concrete sealer does exactly what you would expect it to do. It coats and protects your concrete project with a tough, usually clear coat. Despite the strength and durability of concrete, there are plenty of things that can damage it, either a little or a lot. And some things, like liquids and chemicals, will discolor, potentially damage, or even destroy the concrete. Sealers will act to keep these harmful substances from prematurely causing problems. Read more in this blog about the concrete sealers.

Where to Use a Sealer

Despite its appearance and texture, concrete can be a porous material. For several different applications, a sealer is a requirement. For example:

Finishing a driveway, to prevent moisture and things like oil, road tar, or other chemicals from damaging things.
Garage floors, to keep harmful substances away from the concrete and provide a smooth surface for easier cleanup and a better look.
Large concrete floor installations, such as a big-box retail location.
Countertops for kitchens and similar installations, where things like acids can discolor or erode concrete over time. Even leaving relatively harmless liquids on a countertop without cleaning up can cause spotting.
Any place where you might have unwanted water, such as in a basement. Sealing interior walls or cinder block walls will help, especially if you have an unexpected problem situation.

There are few places where using a concrete sealer would not improve the durability of your concrete and provide an improved finish and look.

Increasing Longevity

Using a concrete sealer is a great way to improve the look and durability of your project. There are, as well, a few basic things you should do for any installation to keep it looking good and improve its life:

Cleaning - keep your driveways, walkways, or patios cleaned up and free of debris and potentially harmful substances.
Repairing - fix small cracks or fill holes so the small problems don't get bigger.
Resealing - check the instructions for your sealer, but there is no doubt a suggested schedule to reseal your installation regularly.

Whether doing small projects yourself or getting a professional in to redo a large floor for your business, certain basics apply. Proper preparation, then execution, then putting on the finishing touches is part of every project. Be sure you have all the advice and direction you need when using a concrete sealer to complete an installation that meets all your needs.