Sealing concrete is one of the treatments you can give to protect your concrete and prevent moisture, dust, grease, etc. from entering it, which could lead to damage in the long run. It is something that you can do yourself if you have the time. Sealing can be done with a densifier sealer, penetrating sealer, or a combination of both that will give it a bare concrete appearance. You can also use acrylic sealers and its hybrid blends, which will give your concrete a glossy, shiny look and darkens it a little. Whichever sealer you have in mind to use, you must do things to ensure perfect sealing and protect your concrete. Here, we provide some tips for concrete sealing.
Read and Follow Directions On the Product:
Regardless of the sealer, you are using, the first thing you should do is read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow them. The fact that you have used a sealer before should not make you think you are an expert on all sealer applications. If you are using one for the first time, ensure that you know what the producers say. If you can’t find it or are confused, it doesn’t hurt to call and ask questions.
Prepare The Concrete:
Much of the work is in the proper preparation of the concrete you’re applying the sealer to. Preparation means cleaning the surface, ensuring it is balanced, and any irregularity is corrected, using an acid etch solution, sanding the floor, etc. You should inquire from the manufacturer to determine the surface best for the sealer. Any surface you create should be able to absorb the sealer.
Use Quality Roller:
When buying a roller, you will need to apply the sealer, ensure you purchase quality lint-free rollers that can withstand the solvent in the sealer and not shed any lint. You can remove any loose lint in a new sealer by running it over duct tape. Lint-free rollers mean your floor is properly sealed with no lint in it. It is also essential to use the roller with the right thickness, so find out what the sealer needs to prevent heavy application.
Keep A Wet Edge:
To prevent lap lines or roller marks, ensure that there is always a damp edge and don’t let the roller run dry. Apply the sealer so that each part blends with the other and doesn’t use a roller on a part that has started curing as this will lead to blotchy marks.
Apply in Thin Layers:
When it comes to sealers, thin is better. You should apply it to the surface in thin coats. A thicker layer would create blisters, hazing, bubbles, and may develop a milky appearance when it dries up.
Use A Cone-Shaped Nozzle If You Are Spraying:
There are concrete sealers that can be applied through spraying. If you are doing this, use a conical nozzle that will ensure that the spraying is regular. A fan-shaped nozzle will spray irregularly and cause overlaps, leading to uneven applications.
Check The Temperature:
The average temperature for applying sealers is 50 – 80 degrees to ensure that the sealers cure appropriately. A lower or higher one will lead to improper curing. So ensure that the weather is right. If there is a chance of rain falling, it is probably better not to apply any sealer.
Conclusion
Following these tips will guide you in your application of sealers. The most important thing is that when you are not sure of anything in the application process, ask the manufacturer.
