Sealed concrete surfaces aren’t just functional; they’re an investment in the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your property. They add to the beauty of your home and contribute to its overall value in the real estate market. That’s why sealing concrete surfaces is one of the most popular projects in the construction industry.
However, maintaining the integrity and appearance of these features requires a thoughtful approach. Whether it’s for sealed driveways or patios, you need to practice proactive care. Following a few steps can help you keep your concrete flooring in top condition and maximise its benefits.
Why Should You Invest in Sealed Concrete?
First of all, why should you invest in concrete sealing in Perth? Sealed concrete surfaces offer several functional and aesthetic benefits depending on the specific context and application. Here are the main reasons why you should consider them in your next construction project:
- Durability: Sealing enhances the durability of concrete floors by providing a barrier between them and external factors such as UV rays, snow, and chemicals.
- Stain resistance: Sealed concretes are less porous, enhancing their resistance to stains from spills, oil, and similar substances. This feature is beneficial in areas with heavy foot traffic or high exposure to potential staining agents.
- Easy maintenance: Cleaning unsealed concrete floors is usually a demanding task because they’re porous. However, the non-porous nature of sealed concrete reduces the time and effort you spend on cleaning.
- Aesthetic appeal: Your home’s appearance should always be a priority in any construction project. Sealed concrete adds a glossy finish to surfaces, enhancing the overall beauty of your concrete flooring.
- Resistance to mould and mildew: The sealant creates a barrier that prevents the growth of these microorganisms, making it less likely for the surfaces to harbour mould and mildew.
- Cost savings in the long run: The initial cost of concrete sealing may be considerable. However, it offers long-term savings in terms of maintenance, repair, and replacement, making it a cost-effective investment.
While there are many benefits in sealing a concrete floor, it’s still essential to consider your project’s specific requirements before investing. Consult with expert professionals to help you make informed decisions.
Maximizing the Benefits of Concrete Sealing: Essential Maintenance Practices
Clean Using a Neutral-pH Cleaner
Cleaning is fundamental to preserving the beauty and functionality of your sealed concrete. To avoid damage and premature wear, you’ll need to use a neutral-pH cleaner because harsh or acidic cleaners can break down the sealer, compromising its protective properties.
Choose a neutral-pH cleaner designed for sealed flooring to effectively remove dirt, grime, and stains without damaging the seal. But how frequently should you do this? It’s advisable to clean the surface regularly, especially if it’s a high-traffic space.
Remove Any Oil or Fuel Spills Immediately
Oil and fuel spills are common on driveways, garage floors, or even other areas of your patio. These substances can penetrate the sealer and may lead to stubborn stains if left unattended, deteriorating the concrete.
Therefore, you need to act promptly to prevent lasting damage to the functionality and aesthetics of the surface. Start by soaking up the spilled substance immediately using absorbent materials like sawdust or kitty litter. Lift the remaining residue by applying a suitable degreaser.
Reseal Regularly
Exposure to external elements like snow and sunlight can accelerate the sealer’s lifespan. It can wear down even faster if it’s a busy place or an area with heavy foot traffic. Therefore, you need to reseal the surface regularly to maintain its protective properties.
So, what’s the process of resealing a worn-out surface? This project involves the following main steps:
- Removing the existing sealer using stripping chemical or mechanical scarification
- Opening up the concrete using an etching solution
- Applying the sealer. In some cases, it might be beneficial to double seal to increase the durability of the sealant.
- Leaving it for at least 48 hours to dry
A routine resealing schedule enhances the surface’s resistance to stains, UV rays, and other environmental factors. Experts recommend a frequency of between 2 to 5 years. However, some sealers may not last that long, while others can serve you for more than 5 years.
To understand all these technicalities, it’s important to consult an expert before commencing the project. In fact, hiring a professional to do the job may guarantee better results and higher durability.
Control Vegetation Growth
You must also control vegetation growth around your sealed concrete surface. Overgrown plants, weeds, or moss can compromise the soil and create an unsightly appearance.
Trim vegetation regularly to prevent contact with the sealed surface. Apply herbicides or natural alternatives to inhibit stubborn weed and moss growth. While at it, ensure that the edges of the concrete surface are well-sealed to prevent plant roots from penetrating.
Keeping Your Concrete Floor Surface Well-Maintained
Sealing concrete surfaces has many benefits, but to enjoy them, you need to incorporate effective maintenance practices. First, make sure you clean using a neutral-pH cleaner and get rid of spills as soon as possible. Reseal your concrete surface regularly, ideally after every 2-5 years. Controlling vegetation growth can also extend the life of the sealed surface and ensure a pristine appearance for years. For a stress-free approach and guaranteed results, consider entrusting your sealed concrete’s maintenance to experienced professionals.
Professional Concrete Sealing Services
Is your concrete floor starting to show signs of wear and tear? Cracks, stains, and dust can make even the most beautiful concrete floor look dull. Sealing your concrete floors and surfaces is a great way to protect them from damage and keep them looking their best. But with so many companies offering concrete sealing services, how do you choose the right one? Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a concrete sealing company:
Experience
Ask about the company’s experience sealing concrete floors and surfaces. The more experience they have, the better equipped they will be to handle your specific needs.
Products and methods
Not all concrete sealers are created equal. Be sure to ask about the company’s products and methods to ensure they are using high-quality materials that will last.
Reputation
Read online reviews and ask for referrals to get a sense of the company’s reputation.
Price
Get quotes from several different companies before making a decision. Be sure to compare the price of the service with the quality of the materials and workmanship.
Don’t wait any longer to protect concrete surfaces
All West Pressure Cleaning boasts a strong reputation as a well-established company, backed by years of expertise in sealing concrete floors and surfaces. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our useof top-notch products and techniques.
With a wide range of sealing options available, we’re confident in providing the ideal solution tailored to your specific requirements. Contact All West Pressure Cleaning today to receive a complimentary quote!