How do you seal exterior concrete?

Author: Maria Sipes  |  Last update: Thursday, March 27, 2025

How to Seal Concrete in 7 Steps
  1. Remove all oil, grease, stains, dirt, and dust from the concrete.
  2. Strip any existing sealer from the surface.
  3. Open up the concrete with an etching solution.
  4. Apply a thin coat of sealer using a roller or sprayer.
  5. Wait for the first layer of sealer to dry.

What is the best way to seal outdoor concrete?

The primary type of sealer used on decorative concrete patios is a solvent- or water-based acrylic. Acrylic sealers are easy to apply, inexpensive, and well-suited for outdoor use because they are UV resistant, nonyellowing, and provide good water repellence while allowing moisture vapor within the slab to escape.

Does exposed concrete need to be sealed?

Cleaning and sealing your exposed aggregate driveway and paths is required to protect your investment however what many people don't realise is that exposed aggregate driveways need to be re-sealed every few years in order to maintain the protective sealer in good condition.

Is it better to spray or roll concrete sealer?

Either will work. My builder uses a sprayer but they don't last long as they tend to clog. The roller will work but you need to be careful to not roll too fast or you'll create bubbles.

How do you waterproof exterior concrete?

The most common forms of waterproofing for concrete are:
  1. Membrane Waterproofing. There are two types of membrane waterproofing- liquid and sheet. ...
  2. Crystalline Waterproofing. Like cementitious coatings, these are applied like a paint. ...
  3. Bituminous Coatings. ...
  4. Epoxy and Resin Injections.

Installing The Perimeter Drain And Foundation Sealer

What is the best waterproofing for concrete slab exterior?

The best waterproofing materials for concrete are polyurethane, crystalline waterproofing, cementitious coatings, EPDM rubber, rubberized asphalt, thermoplastic membranes, bituminous membranes, silicone sealants, and PVC waterproofing membranes.

When should I seal my exterior concrete?

Other reactive penetrating sealers (silanes and siloxanes) and most high-performance coatings, such as epoxies and urethanes, should only be applied after the concrete is fully cured (generally 28 days). Almost all sealers can be applied after the concrete is 28 days old.

Is quikrete concrete sealer good?

Overall, the product is well-received for its effectiveness, though users recommend careful application techniques to achieve the best results.

What is the best applicator for concrete sealer?

LPHV (low-pressure, high-volume) or airless sprayers: These sprayers are usually the best way to apply any sealer. They permit very controlled application rates, allowing large areas to be sealed in the shortest time.

What happens if you don't seal concrete?

Without sealant, water can seep into a concrete driveway and lead to considerable damage over time, especially in areas known to fall below freezing during the winter months. Water seeps into the pores, then freezes and expands, which can lead to significant cracks.

What happens if it rains after sealing concrete?

Light rain 1-3 hours after sealing may not cause damage. Heavy rain within 12-16 hours can be problematic. For light rain, check for standing water and scrub away any solvent residue after the rain stops. Reapply sealer if needed after fully drying.

Should you wash concrete before sealing?

Before applying a sealer for the first time, you should clean the concrete.

What is the downside of sealing concrete?

The materials and labor required to seal a concrete driveway properly can be expensive. In addition, concrete driveways that are improperly sealed can trap moisture underneath the surface, which can lead to problems such as mold and mildew.

Which concrete sealer is best?

Best Concrete Sealers: Our Top 7 Picks
  • Best Sealer Overall: TotalBoat Concrete Coating.
  • Best Acrylic Sealer: Foundation Armor Concrete Sealer.
  • Best Penetrating Sealer: Ghostshield Siloxa-Tek Concrete Sealer.
  • Best Glossy Sealer: Black Diamond Stoneworks Stone Sealer.
  • Best Sealer for Basements: RadonSeal Concrete Sealer.

What is a cheap way to seal concrete?

Acrylic – Acrylic-based sealers are a cost-effective solution for adding a protective barrier to your concrete surfaces. Acrylic sealers are easy to apply, making them a great choice for DIYers, and their quicker dry time is perfect for projects on a tight timeline.

Which is better oil based or water-based concrete sealer?

Water-based sealers deliver faster results, are better for the environment, and enhance safety—all without compromising on durability or protection. Whether you're sealing a new surface or maintaining an existing one, they provide a sustainable and effective solution.

Is concrete stronger than quikrete?

Since Quikrete needs less time to become fully set up, it has stronger strength than traditional concrete. Quikrete has been engineered to be a stronger product with a higher compressive strength (ability to bear loads) and greater tensile strength (resistance to being pulled apart).

Can I seal concrete myself?

Sealing concrete is an excellent DIY project if you have the time available. Once you learn how to seal one type of concrete surface, you'll be confident tackling more areas around your home. You can roughly cut the project's cost in half by tackling it yourself instead of hiring a professional.

What happens if you put too much sealer on concrete?

Heavy coats of sealer, or a buildup of sealer applied numerous times over the years, will cause moisture to become entrapped under the sealer and, in time, the sealer loses adhesion from the concrete.

Is it too late to seal concrete?

You should typically wait at least four weeks after the concrete has been placed before applying a sealing compound. This period allows the concrete to fully cure and achieve its maximum strength.

What happens to concrete if you don't seal it?

Concrete pores out in the open are prone to moisture, air, heat, and stains. The main crook of a floor's beauty is moisture, and it will cause the concrete slabs to weaken. That condition will lead to corrosion due to the material crumbling quickly beneath the surface.

How do you prep concrete for sealer?

Wipe up all oil and grease spills. Sweep and scrape away all dirt and loose contaminants with a broom. If the surface is new or uncoated, use a product to clean and etch the surface. Use a plastic watering can to evenly distribute the product.

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