Whether you’re a homeowner hoping to expand the lifespan of your concrete patio or garage floor, or a business owner trying to maintain a high-traffic concrete driveway, you may want to consider applying a sealant to keep your surface protected. Keep reading to find out why sealing new concrete is a smart decision.
3 Common Questions About Concrete Sealing
Not sure if you need sealant for your surface? Concrete coatings can protect from abrasion, stains, and more, and should be a part of your regular maintenance routine if you want to keep your floors in tip-top shape. Here are answers to three common questions about concrete sealing.
Does New Concrete Really Need Sealing?
Yes! If you want to protect your investment and maximize your concrete’s life, sealing is the best way to be proactive and prevent stains and cracks. Bare concrete is porous and absorbs any moisture that falls onto it, which leads to cracking and spalling. This problem becomes even more damaging in the winter when the temperature drops because absorbed water freezes and expands inside the pavement. However, water-repellent sealers and waterproofing treatments can help prevent this by acting as a hydrophobic barrier.
When Should You Seal Concrete?
We recommend resealing your concrete floor every couple of years. You’ll want to wait at least 30 days for new concrete to cure before sealing it. If you have old concrete that looks stained, watermarked, or has mildew, that’s a tell-tale sign it’s time for resealing or maybe even a few repairs. If you’re not sure if your concrete has ever been sealed, pour some water on it. If it darkens, that means that it’s not sealed or that it’s time to reseal.
What’s the Best Way to Seal Concrete?
Before sealing your concrete surface, you’ll want to pressure wash it to remove all stains, whether they be from oil, salt, or chemicals. Once you do this, it’s time to apply the sealant! Sealings can be either water-based or solvent-based. Our experts can help you determine what type of concrete sealant you need. If you don’t want to change the color of your pavement and you like its natural matte look, you may want to consider a penetrating sealer. However, if you’d prefer a high gloss shine, you may want to consider a wet-look sealer like acrylic, epoxy, or polyurethane. Instead of simply applying a film with an acrylic sealer, our experts use a pressure sprayer to apply a penetrative sealer that chemically alters concrete. This leaves a clear, breathable, water-resistant membrane that protects from water, oil, gas, UV rays, antifreeze, and more.
You’ll want to consider working with a professional concrete sealer for the best results. Luckily, MACH ONE™ has the high-quality sealing solutions you need to maintain your pavement and preserve its appearance. As a Veteran-only franchise, you can count on us for unmatched service and results. Contact us today to request a free quote on your next project.
