Concrete is one of the most common construction materials to ever exist. It’s everywhere, from high-rise buildings to simple homes and other structures.
While known for its toughness, concrete needs protection from potential damage caused by weather exposure, stains, slippage, and general wear and tear. Several types of concrete sealers are on the market, including topical and penetrative, water- and solvent-based concrete sealers. With many options available, choosing the right product can be confusing.
Exploring the different types of concrete sealers, their unique characteristics, and their differences, is crucial before embarking on outdoor concrete sealing in Perth. By understanding these, you can make an informed decision and select the best concrete sealer for your needs.
But what is a concrete sealer?
Concrete surfaces can be safeguarded by administering a layer of protective coating called a concrete sealer, which enhances their durability, resistance to stains, and overall appearance. It acts as a barrier, preventing moisture penetration, reducing the effects of freeze-thaw cycles, and providing protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays and chemical damage. Concrete sealers come in different formulations, each offering specific advantages and applications.
Why should you seal your concrete floor?
Sealers are chemicals that add a layer of protection that extends the concrete’s lifespan, preserving its appearance and functionality. Water freezes when it expands, making unsealed concrete prone to expansion. This, in turn, makes concrete more susceptible to cracking and pitting once the ice melts. This phenomenon, known as freeze-thaw cycles, is a major concern for commercial and residential property owners.
Applying concrete sealers prevents these issues and makes surfaces more resistant to slips and falls, making it necessary in wet areas of your exterior, like the pool, deck, patio, or driveway. Concrete sealers also serve aesthetic purposes, making surfaces more appealing, increasing their shine, and enhancing their colour.
What are the types of concrete sealers?
Sealers come in multiple formulations, each with pros and cons. To give you an idea of how to choose the right one, here are the most common types and their features.
- Topical vs. penetrating concrete sealers
Concrete sealers are primarily classified into two: topical and penetrating. As the name implies, topical sealers form a protective barrier on concrete surfaces, while penetrating sealers soak into the concrete pores, making them more resistant to moisture and stains. Topical sealers are better for creating an opaque finish, while penetrating sealers deliver better surface protection and subtle sheen without dramatically altering the look of your concrete.Penetrative sealers last longer than topical sealers, as the latter tend to wear away over time or after severe weather exposure. They’re used extensively indoors and outdoors, especially for concrete, porous stone pavers, and concrete paving materials.
- Solvent-based vs. water-based concrete sealers
The most glaring difference between these two formulations is that water-based concrete sealers have low volatile organic compound (VOC) content, making them more eco-friendly. On the downside, water-based sealers may be less effective on highly polished surfaces.Solvent-based sealers evaporate quickly in warm weather. However, they may last longer on your concrete surfaces than water-based sealers. These products also generate a generally glossier finish than their environmentally safer counterparts but tend to darken concrete surfaces.
- Water-based penetrative concrete sealers
If you must choose the perfect sealing solution for your concrete surfaces, we highly recommend a water-based penetrating sealing compound for exterior concrete surfaces. Besides being safer, these products are designed to effectively manage water and moisture intrusion into the substrate. Moreover, water-based penetrative concrete sealers are more cost-effective and require less surface preparation time and effort.
- Acrylic concrete sealers
These are easily among the more popular products, owing to their versatility and ease of application. Acrylic concrete sealers are available in both solvent-based and water-based formulations. They create a film-like layer on the concrete and are sold in glossy or matte finishes. These quick-drying sealants offer great UV protection, stain resistance, and considerable protection from dirt and grime.
- Silicate-based concrete sealers
These products are often dubbed concrete densifiers and hardeners because they can penetrate through concrete layers to form calcium silicate hydrate (CSH), strengthening surface hardness considerably and reducing the concrete’s pore size. Thus, besides reinforcing concrete, these sealers can protect your surface by minimising water and moisture intrusion.These strengthening compounds are typically available as sodium, potassium, or lithium silicate sealants in water-based formulations. Of the three, lithium silicate sealant is the best choice, as it doesn’t increase the concrete’s pH level, leading to alkali-silica reaction (ASR) and premature concrete damage.
- Silane- and siloxane-based concrete sealers
Silane- and siloxane-based concrete sealers are a great choice if you’re looking for a penetrative product with high protection and slip-resistant properties. Because of their hydrophobic properties, these products are the most popular options for outdoor concrete sealing on driveways, decks, or patios.Silane-based products have bigger molecules than siloxane, making them highly resistant to abrasions and harsh weather conditions. Meanwhile, the less-volatile siloxane typically lasts longer and has higher water resistance, making them ideal for highly porous surfaces, which, besides concrete, can include bricks, mortar, and stucco. Some formulations have both silane and siloxane because they’re highly effective in protecting concrete surfaces from:
- Salt deposits or efflorescence
- Excess moisture from freeze-thaw cycles
- Most types of dirt
- Mould, mildew, and other fungal formations
Like acrylic, silane and siloxane sealing products also come in water and solvent-based formulations. These products’ solid and VOC content can vary based on the manufacturer.
To choose the best concrete driveway sealer, consider a product highly resistant to slips, abrasions, moisture, and freeze-thaw cycles. The same considerations apply to concrete patio sealers, perhaps with the addition of UV resistance.
Choose, use, and experience concrete difference!
Concrete sealers offer a range of benefits, including protection against moisture damage, stain, abrasions, and many more. The right option will ensure optimal protection and longevity for your concrete for several years.