How to Choose the Right Concrete Sealer

Finding the right concrete sealer can be an overwhelming task. With so many on the market, it’s essential to pick the right one. The first factor to consider is whether a sealer is safe to walk on. You need to ensure the sealer doesn’t increase the chances of someone slipping and becoming injured.

The concrete sealer should also not emit any harmful fumes during application. Additionally, it should be thick, durable, weather resistant and easy to maintain.

Finally, when choosing a concrete sealer, you must consider its appearance. Sealers come in various sheen levels, ranging from satin to glossy. The higher the gloss level, the greater the degree of colour will be, so you’ll want to consider your choice carefully. Read on to learn about four available sealer types you can choose from for sealing concrete.

 
Acrylic
The least expensive type of concrete sealer is acrylic. Able to be applied using a pump sprayer or roller, it’s recommended that two coats are applied for the best protection. The finish on acrylic concrete sealer is wet and glossy, however you will need to reapply the coat every 18-24 months for the best results. In addition, you may also want to consider acrylic sealant with added UV protection, as some acrylic sealers may yellow overtime.

Epoxy
Epoxy is a durable and thick concrete sealer that forms a strong bond with concrete, although it can take a while to apply. Epoxy floors are super resistant, as they don’t get damaged by water, oil or any other vehicle fluids. However, you may need a slip resistant coating, as epoxy can be quite slick when it’s applied.

Polyurethane
Out of all the concrete sealer types, polyurethane is the least common, as it requires the application of a primer for the best bonding results. With polyurethane, you can expect improved durability and a longer life span, plus it has built-in UV protection.

 
Penetrating Sealer
Penetrating sealers bond together with the free lime in the upper layer of concrete, forming calcium silicate that prevents any liquid from passing through. It requires only one coat and can be applied using a pump sprayer.
For advice and information on the best concrete sealer for your particular application, contact Tech Dry today.