Guide for Choosing the Right Sealer for Your Concrete Paving

Posted on: 8 October 2020

Whether for installing a driveway, walkway, or patio, the benefits of using concrete as a paving material are huge. Concrete paving is a strong, durable, aesthetic and cost-effective choice when used for your project. However, it's not invincible. 

Like other concrete structures, concrete pavements can become damaged over time due to constant exposure to harsh outdoor elements such as persistent rain, the sun's UV radiation, and freeze-thaw cycles. For driveways, motor oils and tyre marks can also be major concerns.

One way to slow down the deterioration of concrete paving is to seal-coat it. Sealcoating involves applying an extremely durable coating to the surfaces of concrete pavements. The concrete sealer penetrates through the porous surface of concrete, forming an impermeable barrier that protects the underlying concrete from the elements. This helps prolong the lifespan of the paved surfaces.

There are many different types of concrete sealers available on the market to suit different seal-coating situations. Here's how to choose the right sealer for your concrete.

The type of concrete you have

Some concrete sealers are designed for indoor use while others are created to be used outside. When you're shopping a sealer for your concrete pavement, it is important that you choose one that is made to be used outside. This is because concrete sealers for indoor applications aren't specially formulated to tackle the harsh elements found outdoors.

Whether you're building a new pavement or maintaining an existing one will also impact the type of sealer you can use. There are sealers for fresh or wet concrete, as well as already hardened concrete. The right product for your seal-coating job will depend on the specific condition of your concrete. 

The level of protection you need

Different types of concrete pavements are usually exposed to different elements. Concrete driveways, for example, may need to be protected against de-icing chemicals and motor oil spills, in addition to harsh weather elements. A concrete patio located in a shady area of your yard may benefit from the use of a mould-inhibiting sealer.

Let the specific elements your concrete is exposed to determine what kind of sealer to use.

The desired aesthetics

If you want to maintain the initial colour of your concrete paving, choose a clear sealer. This type of sealer will protect the concrete underneath against the elements but without altering its original look.

For a more colourful and vibrant look, choose your sealer from a wide range of colour options available to you.

Get in touch with a concrete contractor close to you for help with your concrete sealing project.

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