Concrete sealers are used to protect and maintain the surface of pattern-stamped patio, pool deck, interlocking pavement, driveway, walkway etc. Exposure to sun light, weather, cleaning and polishing may reduce the actual beauty of concrete surface. The concrete sealers help the surface to retain the original color and standard for a long time. The contractors advice and perform sealing work on newly constructed concrete.
Kinds of Concrete Sealers
- Acrylic Sealers
This type of sealer is easy to apply and it is cheap. It is available in both solvent and water based formulations which can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces. The thin film of sealer protects the surfaces from water, UV rays, yellowing and chloride intrusion. The acrylic sealers are available in different shine to increase the beauty of the surface.
- Epoxy Sealers
Epoxy sealers are harder than acrylics and so these form a stronger protective film on the concrete surface. These sealers offer long lasting, hard and abrasion-resistant finish. They protect the surfaces from UV rays and water. The epoxy sealers come in clear or pigmented form and these can provide glossy and colored finish if you add any color to it. The epoxies are one of the best options for the kitchen countertops and other such areas.
- Penetrating Sealers
Penetrating sealers penetrates into the concrete and they provide a chemical barrier to guard against moisture and chemicals. The sealers include silanes, siloxanes, and silicates which are invisible in appearance by provide protection without changing the surface look. The penetrating sealers are appropriate for outdoors as they protect the surfaces from harsh weather exposure. These sealers are not glossy and do not increase the slipperiness of the concrete surface.
- Polyurethane Sealers
Polyurethanes sealers provide strong protection from abrasion, chemical and water. It is nearly two times as thick as acrylic sealer and is available in water and solvent based versions. The sealer can be applied interior as well as exterior concrete surfaces. The sealers are available in different levels of shine and so it provides non-yellowing, glossy, clear and long lasting finish to the surface.
- Polyaspartic Sealers
This is a high performance material that can easily bond to any kind of concrete surfaces. The polyaspartic sealers can be applied at any temperature and spread through cracks. The sealers are highly resistant to heat, UV rays and stain.
Things to Know about Concrete Sealing Work
- Surfaces to Seal
External surfaces need sealing work to protect them from extreme weather conditions like hot summers or freezing cycles. The surfaces can be sealed to make them resistant for a specific purpose like dust, stain, chemical and abrasion.
- Application of Sealer
Many sealers come with the guide to do the work yourself. These can be applied by anybody using simple tools such as sprayer or paint roller. The reactive penetrating sealers, acrylic sealers, 50% solids epoxies and 50% solids urethanes are some of the sealers that anyone can apply. But sealers such as 100% solids epoxies, polyureas and polyaspartic urethanes can be applied by professionals using unique tools and techniques.
- Time of Application
Almost all acrylic sealers and few penetrating sealers are applied when the new concrete is able to hold the weight of installer. Most of the high performance coating like epoxies and urethanes and other penetrating sealers can be applied after the concrete is cured which takes about 28 days.
- Time the Sealer will Last
The acrylic sealers last for the shortest period of time which is 1 to 3 years. The penetrating sealers last the longest for around 10 or more years, as it enters the concrete. The epoxy or urethane sealers also provide good performance for life of 5 to 10 years depending on the exposure.
For more details, you can search through the reliable online portals, to get ideas about great concrete sealing work.
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