Steps Needed To Take For Concrete Sealing
Concrete is a popular material used for flooring. It is durable, long-lasting, and has aesthetic appeal in this place. However, prolonged usage may make it prone to wear and tear. As a result, you may notice cracks or patches developing on the concrete driveway or the flooring. In such a case, you must contact a professional contractor for concrete sealing.
The professionals do the sealing task very efficiently and they are trained in the sealing procedure. The concrete sealing process ensures that the sealing is done aptly and the concrete surface retains its structure. Certain basic steps need to be followed when going ahead with concrete sealing. Let ustake you through the detailed steps of the concrete sealing process.
Steps to Follow During Concrete Sealing
#1. Prepare the Surface: The first step is to prepare or clean the surface for sealing. To ensure this, you must remove all the oil, grease, dirt, or dust from the surface. You can use a high-pressure jet for this purpose. It is better to hire a professional for this task.
#2. Remove the Existing Sealer: When the concrete flooring is led, the next step is to add the sealant, which locks the surface and prevents it from any damage. However, if you notice cracks or any patches on the surface, you have to begin with removing the X existing sealer before adding the new one.
#3. Open up the Concrete with an Etching Solution: if you are doing the project yourself, you need to get an aging solution for this. This will help open up the concrete and prepare it for the next step. But, if you are hiring a professional person, you don’t have to take any headaches because they have the right equipment.
#4. Begin with a Thin Coat Application of Sealer: Once the concrete is separated, it is ready for the seller’s application. Begin with applying a thinner coat first and then using a roller tray to complete the sealing process.
#5. Allow the First Layer to Dry: After adding the sealer you have to leave it for some time such that the sealer dries out completely. Never make hurry at this stage. One should wait for at least 10 minutes before applying a second thought.
#6. Apply the Second Coat: Once you have sealed the first step, it is ready for the second coat. However, while applying the second coat of sealer, you must ensure that it is done in the opposite direction. This helps remove any air bubbles or gaps in the sea life, thus ensuring quality work.
#7. Allow the Sealer to Fully Dry: Once you have applied the second coat of the sealer, the flooring is ready to use. However, it is recommended that you allow the sealer to dry out completely before stepping on it. Leaving it wet or walking on it before drying may damage the sealer and its effect.
Types of Concrete Sealers
You start exploring the market for the different types of concrete sealers, and you will come across the following options:
- Penetrating Sealers: The sealer chemically reacts with the concrete, sealing the gap. Because of this, this type of sealer lasts longer for at least ten years.
- Acrylic Raisins Sealers: They are available in two forms: water-based and solvent-based. But these sealers have a lesser span of 1 to 3 years.
- Epoxies and Urethanes: They are the most expensive ones, but when it comes to longevity, these are the best. It lasts for 5 to 10 years and offers great results.
Wrapping It Up!!!
This basic information on the concrete sealing process and the different types of concrete sealers available in the market will make it easier for you to choose the best option. It is also important that you must choose the best contractor for this task so you can execute the work flawlessly.