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When you're installing concrete, whether for a DIY project or professional concrete installation, it's important to choose the right tools for your project. Concrete sealer is a product that helps prolong concrete service life and protect your concrete from water damage. Adding sealer to your concrete is an important final step for your installation.
There are many types of concrete sealers to consider for your construction project. Discount Contractor Supply sells a range of concrete products for you to consider for your next construction project. We're your source for quality products at an affordable price.
Are you wondering, "What concrete sealer should I use?" We can help. Here's what you need to know about selecting this important material.
A concrete sealer is a substance that strengthens and protects concrete. Concrete sealers can be water- or solvent-based, depending on the location where the sealer is installed. Sealers protect concrete from oil stains, rain, snow, ice, abrasion, de-icing salt, UV rays, and other chemicals and harsh environmental conditions.
Sealers can be penetrating or topical. Sealers also can be divided into four main types: polyurethane, polyaspartic, epoxy, and acrylic.
Before you can choose a concrete sealer, it's important to understand the difference between penetrating and topical sealers, and other considerations. The more you know about these two types, the easier it will be to make a selection.
Penetrating concrete sealers are absorbed into the pores of the concrete and bond with the chemicals inside. This helps stabilize and protect concrete at the same time. Penetrating concrete sealers do not alter the appearance of your concrete. This makes penetrating concrete sealer a common choice for homeowners who want to protect their concrete without altering its appearance.
Topical concrete sealers form a film on top of the concrete, so they're sometimes referred to as "film-forming" sealers. The sealer creates a protective coat that enhances the concrete's moisture resistance. These sealers are sometimes installed as an alternative to polishing because the visual effect is very similar. Topical sealers are often used in kitchens and garages but can be used in other places as well.
When choosing the right types of concrete sealers, it's important to consider where the sealer will be installed and what your aesthetic preferences are.
Some sealers are only made for indoor applications, while some are only made for outdoor. Some sealers are suitable for both. Read the labels carefully when selecting a sealer for your construction project to ensure that your sealer will weather the conditions where it is installed.
Is the area where the sealer will be applied a high-traffic area? Take this into consideration when choosing a sealer. Polyurethane, for example, can be used indoors or outdoors, is highly durable, and creates a thick coat when applied. This makes it a highly durable topical option, and a common choice for installation. Polyurethane is commonly selected for use in garages and walkways.
Some sealers are glossy and create a polished appearance. Other types of sealers enhance the colors of the surface being sealed. Still, other types of sealers have virtually no effect on the appearance of the concrete. Know how each sealer will impact the appearance of your concrete, so you can choose the best sealer for your project.
Concrete sealers contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds). VOCs are highly flammable and can cause a range of adverse health effects for people who are exposed to them. Concrete sealers need to be installed in well-ventilated areas and properly cured before the walkway is put to use again.
If you're applying types of concrete sealers that contain high levels of VOCs, it's important to wear a respirator. Xylene and acetone are the most dangerous VOCs. These materials can be used to thin down sealers so they can be sprayed onto a surface.
When applying sealer to exterior concrete, there's less concern about air quality. Keep sealer away from heat sources and open flames.
Sealers come at different costs, which should be taken into consideration when selecting sealers for a construction project. If you're a homeowner seeking concrete installation for your home, you may pay anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 for a typical installation. The average cost is $1,500.
Some types of sealer are significantly more expensive than others. For example, some epoxy sealers can cost as much as $2 per square foot, while acrylic sealants can cost as little as $0.15 per square foot. If you're a homeowner, do your research when trying to choose a sealer to ensure that the sealer you're installing meets your needs.
While professional sealer installation can be more effective and durable, homeowners can enjoy significant savings if they seal the concrete themselves.
How much money can you save by doing the work yourself? About $1.50 per square foot. For big projects, this can make a big difference. If you're a homeowner trying to decide between a DIY installation or a professional installation, get a few quotes from contractors to help make your decision.
Discount Contractor Supply sells a range of concrete sealers and other concrete epoxies and adhesives. Our wide selection of concrete materials can help contractors and homeowners bring their concrete projects to fruition.
We're your source for Rezi Weld Epoxy 1000, Rezi Weld Gel Paste Epoxy, Ultrabond ASF 1000, Rezi Weld Epoxy Universal, and more. We also contractor finishing brooms and brushes to help with the final stages of your concrete installation.
Not sure what concrete sealer you should use during your next concrete installation project? We can help. Contact Discount Contractor Supply to learn more about how our products can help with your next project.
