Industry
Fact-checked

At AboutMechanics, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Concrete Sealant?

Ken Black
Ken Black

A concrete sealant is a product that prevents water and other liquids from seeping into, or being absorbed by concrete products. This is important to prevent contaminants and cracks within the concrete. Depending on the concrete sealant, it can be made with either petroleum products or acrylics, and can come in many different colors. The product chosen often depends on the situation and the climate in which it is being used.

The primary benefit of a concrete sealant is its ability to extend the life of the concrete. When water and other contaminants get into the concrete, it can cause problems. Acids, for example, may eat away at the concrete to the point that it falls apart. Water, if it freezes inside of concrete, can expand as it freezes and contracts as it thaws. This can cause cracks to develop within the surface of the concrete, and lead to overall deterioration.

Concrete sealant can help prevent concrete from cracking.
Concrete sealant can help prevent concrete from cracking.

The choice between acrylic and petroleum-based, or solvent, concrete sealants is largely dependent on cost. Acrylics are cheaper and easier to apply in most cases, but they break down quicker and therefore need to be reapplied more often. They are also more susceptible to breaking down from oils and fuel and therefore may not be the best choice for driveways. The solvent concrete sealers are more expensive, but offer a more convenient option for those not wishing to redo applications very often.

A power washer may be used to clean concrete.
A power washer may be used to clean concrete.

Another thing to consider about concrete sealants is whether to choose a breathable or non-breathable product. Both are capable of protecting the concrete, but breathable sealants allow water vapor to escape from the concrete that comes up from the ground. If the vapor gets trapped in the concrete and freezes due to a non-breathable concrete sealant, cracks can result. Therefore, if you are in a climate that experiences freezing temperatures for significant periods of time, a non-breathable concrete sealant is likely a bad choice.

The concrete sealer can be applied as soon as the concrete has time to set. Before application, the concrete should be washed with detergent and a power washer and allowed to dry completely. The sealant can be applied with a sprayer or roller, similar to that of a painter, but much wider. The sealant should be applied in an even layer without allowing it to pool.

Secondary to the functionality of concrete sealants is the look. The products come in a variety of colors, for those looking to create a unique look for their concrete project. Acrylics also have the ability to put a glossy finish or shine on the concrete, which may also be desired.

Discussion Comments

Feryll

@Animandel - Consider using a concrete floor stain in your garage. I have a friend who stained his concrete floor a medium to dark brown color. The floor looks great, and the color hides any spills on the floor.

Also the concrete stain protects the floor from water damage in the same way wood stain protects outside decks and porches. This works really well on concrete basement floors when the basement is being used as living space.

Animandel

I didn't know that concrete floor sealants come in various colors. I thought they were all clear. We have the concrete in our garage spray washed from time to time to keep the floor clean and not looking so dirty. I bet if we use a sealant with a color then we will be able to spray wash less often. The color will hide some of the dirt and grease, which builds up quickly.

Drentel

I maintain my cars and my wife's car and my daughters' cars. This is something I have always done. I firmly believe that if you take care of your vehicles then they will take care of you , and you will not have to replace them before you are ready to do so. One of my pet peeves is a car that is leaking fluid, especially oil.

My driveway is splattered with spots from fluids that dripped from the cars of various visitors. I think most of the drips came from my daughters' boyfriends when they were in high school. The boys drove some cars that were basically held together with duct tape.

Anyway, all of the fluids caused the concrete driveway to wear and crack sooner than it should have. Now that I am going to have the concrete repaired, I want a strong concrete sealant to put on top, and hopefully this driveway will last a very long time without cracking.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Concrete sealant can help prevent concrete from cracking.
      Concrete sealant can help prevent concrete from cracking.
    • A power washer may be used to clean concrete.
      By: AlcelVision
      A power washer may be used to clean concrete.