The advances in concrete polishing technology makes it possible to get smooth concrete floors. As such, many people now do away with tiles and marbles, and provide a finish directly on the concrete. Sealing concrete floors offers multiple benefits.
- Applying concrete sealers makes for a final layer of protection, protecting against abrasion and wear, and prolonging the life of the floor.
- It blocks dirt, grease, oil, chemicals and stains from permeating into the floor, preserving appearance and making maintenance easy.
- Applying a top layer of concrete sealer enhances the appearance by adding sheen to the floor.
- It is also possible to add design to the concrete floor using colored concrete sealers and dyes.
The process of sealing a concrete floor is simple enough.
- Ensure that the floor is totally clean and empty. Failure to do so may result in lumps developing after the work is done.
- Degrease the surface by applying a degreasing agent, and rinsing, to eradicate any oils that may have permeated into the floor over time.
- Use concrete joint fillers to fill any cracks or crevices
- Scrub the surface thoroughly. Make sure the surface has the roughness of a medium grit sandpaper, for the sealer to have the best effect.
- Apply the required stain with a chemical pump sprayer. Spraying in a circular motion offers uniform finish.
- Apply the required type of concrete sealer to the floor evenly using a paintbrush or roller.
- Allow the sealer to dry for 12 or 24 hours. Using fans or dehumidifiers hastens the process.
- Once a coat is dry up to four additional layers may be applied, depending on the intensity required.
Sealers for concrete floors come in many variants. They may have a matte or gloss sheen. Film-forming sealers, the most commonly used ones for interiors, form a protective film on the concrete surface. High build sealers, such as ones with a polyurethane or epoxy base offer good resistance to scuffs and staining, and are best suited for decorative purposes. Concrete sealants and surface water repellants are concrete sealers made out of a variety of silicones that penetrate deep within the surface providing protection from spills, grime, dirt and water. They are very easy to apply, work exceptionally well and last 4-6 years. Brick paver sealers are good for walkways, paver patios and driveways, help solidify paver sand and seal paver bricks in addition to providing a wet or glossy appearance. Stamped and stained concrete sealers are similar to brick paver sealers, and decorate and beautify the concrete surface.
When wanting to seal concrete floors it is important to understand the kind of surface you are dealing with, and the effect intended- an enhancement in the look, or protection for the surface, or both- before deciding on the kind of sealer you want. Whether for your interiors or exteriors, always make sure you choose a high quality concrete sealer that gives your concrete surfaces a longer lasting finish.