Concrete sealing is the process of applying a protective coating to concrete surfaces in order to shield them from damage over time. As one of the most widely used construction materials, concrete is very durable but still vulnerable to deterioration without the proper safeguards from weathering, chemicals, and other environmental factors. For more on this, read our post on why concrete cracks.
Using the right concrete sealer creates a defensive barrier that prevents water, salt, and other contaminants from penetrating the concrete and breaking it down. Given the variations in concrete materials and conditions they are exposed to, not all surfaces can be effectively sealed with the same products. Driveways, parking lots, patios, floors, and countertops all require sealers formulated for their specific uses and needs. Today, we will discuss the sealing process and share our top sealer recommendations for each application.
If you’d like a quicker or more specific answer to your questions about sealers for concrete, call the experts at TMC Engineering! If you’re in Southern California, we can help perform whatever sealing job that is necessary. We’ve got an expert solution and expert contractors that can handle any concrete concerns!
Best Sealers for Concrete
For Parking or Walking Areas: PENTREAT 244-20 W/B
Concrete driveways and parking lots require a premium-grade sealer that protects from fuels, oils, and weathering. For these surfaces we recommend PENTREAT 244-20 W/B. This professional water-based silane penetrating sealer safeguards your concrete surface against all the usual conditions, but it’s also specialized to protect against thaw damage from precipitation and ice melt chemicals. Beyond all that, it’s easy to apply, too!
For Parking or Walking Areas: INTRAGUARD
To protect freshly poured concrete surfaces of all kinds from initial exposure, use INTRAGUARD. As a penetrating sealer, one coat offers full coverage of your bare concrete surface. This breathable formula ensures there’s no damage during the delicate curing period and prevents moisture from seeping inside. This leads to a much more durable and long-lasting surface!
For Parking or Walking Areas: DECK-O-SHIELD
Use DECK-O-SHIELD Sealer on freshly poured slabs within 28 days of the pour. Its wet-look shine enhances beauty without obscuring natural tones. Of course, the sealer also acts as a more than sufficient protector. Its breathability ensures there is no bubbling or peeling even if applied during the concrete curing process.
For Parking or Walking Areas: PENTREAT 244-40 OTC
If you are looking for a more natural sealer, this is the one for you! PENTREAT 244-40 OTC Concrete Sealer utilizes eco-friendly, non-toxic ingredients. Formulated without solvents, VOCs, or hazardous chemicals, it protects porous concrete without compromising the safety of people or animals that may come in contact with the surface. It’s water-based has low-odor, and it is easy to clean up for interior or exterior residential use.
For Parking or Walking Areas: PENTREAT 244-40
This water-repellent penetrating sealer is designed to protect concrete from water, stains, and freeze-thaw damage. It is also resistant to UV rays and chemicals, making it a good choice for a variety of applications.
For Stamped Concrete: EXPO-GLOSS
To maintain the visual appeal of freshly stamped concrete for as long as possible, it is necessary to use a sealer. Freshly stamped concrete must be safeguarded with a sealer allowing the vivid details to shine through. For this application, we suggest EXPO-GLOSS Sealer. Its breathable formula does not change the color or texture of stamped designs but still offers plenty of protection. It shields against water and salt penetration to preserve the beauty of stamping patterns outside.
For Countertops: CS-309-OTC
For sealing concrete countertops, we recommend CS-309-OTC Sealer. This acrylic concrete curing and sealing compound is specifically designed for concrete countertops. It is resistant to water, stains, and scratches. Specially made for polished concrete, it maintains the aesthetic appeal while defending against moisture and chemicals from daily use. This breathable formula keeps counters from staining or damage no matter what you’re preparing!
For Patios: DECK-O-SHIELD PLUS
Outdoor living spaces like patios need ultra-durable sealers that protect guardians against nature’s extremes. DECK-O-SHIELD PLUS enhances dull patios into a radiant alabaster sheen insulated from liquid penetration. This high-performance patio sealer withstands foot traffic and all weather conditions without the need for frequent reapplication.
For Floors: CS-309-25
Floor finishes like garage epoxies require sealing to uphold the look, durability, and longevity. CS-309-25 protects floors from oils, antifreeze, and other automotive fluids penetration. This epoxy-based sealer is designed to provide a strong and long-lasting finish for garage floors. It is resistant to stains, scratches, and hot tire pickup. This non-toxic, color-enhancing formula is also easy to apply yourself since it’s low-odor and fast-drying.
For Floors: EXPO-GLOSS OTC
For surfaces like basements that require full demanding ultimate waterproofing, try EXPO-GLOSS OTC. Siloxane-based chemistry reactive work deep within the concrete to completely seal pores. Whether applied to a positive or negative side water pressure, it’ll form an elastic barrier that blocks water from penetrating the concrete surfaces.
For Concrete Art: DECRA-SEAL NATURAL
If your property includes any decorative concrete painting or artwork, it deserves DECRA-SEAL NATURAL Sealer. Developed for use on all painted and colored concrete surfaces, it shields from water damage without changing painted hues. This non-yellowing formula maintains clarity in the pigments, so artwork retains vibrancy through weathering.
Why Use a Sealer?
There are several reasons why you should consider sealing your concrete surfaces:
- Increased Durability: Sealing helps to protect your concrete from the elements, including rain, snow, and UV rays. This can significantly extend the lifespan of your concrete surfaces and reduce the need for costly repairs.
- Stain Resistance: Sealing creates a barrier that helps to prevent stains from penetrating the concrete. This is especially important for areas that are prone to spills, such as patios, driveways, parking lots, and floors.
- Easier Maintenance: Sealed concrete is easier to clean and maintain than unsealed concrete. This is because the sealant helps to prevent dirt and grime from adhering to the surface.
- Enhanced Appearance: Sealing can enhance the appearance of your concrete surfaces by making them look richer and more vibrant.
Choosing the Right Sealer
Not all concrete sealers are created equal. The type of sealer you choose will depend on several factors, including the type of concrete surface you are sealing, the desired level of protection, and your budget. Here are some of the most common types of concrete sealers:
- Penetrating Sealers: These sealers penetrate the surface of the concrete and create a barrier that helps to prevent water and stains from penetrating the concrete. Penetrating sealers are typically invisible and do not change the appearance of the concrete.
- Film-Forming Sealers: These sealers create a thin film on the surface of the concrete. Film-forming sealers are available in a variety of finishes, including matte, satin, and gloss.
- Topical Sealers: These sealers are similar to film-forming sealers, but they are thicker and more durable. Topical sealers are often used on high-traffic areas, such as driveways and patios.
Proper concrete sealing preserve your property investment and curb appeal.
Sealing your concrete surfaces is a great way to protect your investment and extend the lifespan of your concrete. By choosing the right sealer and following the manufacturer’s instructions, you can ensure that your concrete surfaces look their best for years to come.
Periodic reapplication further braces surfaces through decades of demanding climate cycles and high-use areas. With professional-grade products tailored for your specific concrete type, protective coatings can extend the functional lifespan of your surface many times over.
Our team of experienced paving professionals at TMC Engineering provides a wide range of transportation construction services to meet all of your project needs. Whether you need asphalt paving, striping, sealing, or concrete work completed, we have the expertise and equipment to handle the job efficiently and cost-effectively. By combining extensive industry knowledge with high-quality materials and workmanship, we can deliver durable, long-lasting results!
Contact us today to discuss your requirements and receive a customized proposal. We aim to forge strong partnerships through collaboration on quality-focused solutions!
