Conceivably, you may have heard of the wonder of concrete sealants. It is also possible that you are among the crowd curious about what this technology entails and why you should use sealers in your concrete works.
You may want to know the cost of using this variant of sealers, the effect of sealers on the environment, what time is ideal for their application amidst others.
Here is what you should know these penetrating sealers.
What are concrete sealer basically?
These sealers are chemicals applied to concrete to increase the longevity of concrete works and also preserve their natural state.
What are the effects of not using sealers for my concrete?
Concretes can absorb liquid spills on it and moisture from the atmosphere. Also, in environments that experience high-temperature fluctuations, liquids trapped in concrete works freeze or possibly thaws, thereby subjecting the surface of concrete stain to cracks that make the surface appears uneven.
Fertilizers, salts, oils, and other household chemicals have very high tendencies of damaging concretes by creating acidic reactions that destroy the bond in the cement.
What is the cost of applying sealers to concrete works?
Generally, the cost of applying concrete sealer ranges from $0.15 to $2.50 per square foot depending on the type of sealer you choose to use.
Using sealers can be quite expensive, but it saves you more in the long run. This is because replacing concrete work can cost you up to $8.00 per square feet.
Can sealers change the color of concrete?
It depends on your choice. If you like the look of unsealed concrete, then you can apply sealers that are chemically reactive because they preserve the color of your concrete works. If on the other hand, you want to enhance the colour of your concrete and gives it a glossy exterior, you should opt for solvent-based acrylic resin sealer and epoxies to give your concrete a bright appearance.
How environmentally friendly are these penetrating sealers?
Water-based sealers are considered as one of the most environmentally friendly sealers you can use. Some solvent-based sealers are banned in some places because they are perceived to be harmful to the environment.
Due to the advancement in technology, there are new environmentally friendly solvent-based sealers available in the market.
How do I apply sealers to concrete?
If you intend applying sealers like polyaspartic urethanes and polyureas which are 100%-solids epoxides, you will require the services of a professional because both sealants need special tools and application techniques.
You can apply 50%-solids epoxides and 50%-solids urethanes such as acrylic-resin sealer and reactive penetrating sealer all by yourself using a paint roller or pump-up sprayer.
When can you apply a sealer to your concrete?
Most reactive-penetrating sealers like silanes, siloxanes, epoxies, and urethanes are applied 28 days after the setting of the concrete. However, some silicones, silicates and most of the acrylic resin sealers are used as soon as the concrete is solid enough(before it gets cured). This is for it to bear the weight of the applicator.
Beauty shouldn’t be ephemeral, especially that of your home or property. Ensure your lovey concrete retains its glamor for much longer using Walttools reliable concrete sealants. From water-based sealers to solvent-based sealers, Walttools has all it takes to sustain the allure of your concrete.
