Whether or not you should seal your concrete driveway is a common debate between concrete contractors. While concrete will perform very well without ever being sealed, sealing it with a high-quality sealer every few years will extend its life and keep it looking good. This is especially true if your driveway or patio is stained or etched concrete. A concrete driveway sealer is also beneficial if you live in an area where winter road salt can eat away at the concrete. Applying a concrete sealer can also be completed as a DIY project.
Many homeowners choose to seal their concrete driveways and patios to prevent cracks, chips, and stains. However, while concrete driveway sealer can be an effective way to preserve concrete, there are several factors to consider before implementing this method. Concrete sealants can be costly and time-consuming to install. Sealants only last a few years before they need to be replaced. Many sealants also leave a glossy sheen, which, while appealing, is slick to walk on.
Types of Concrete Sealers
Acrylic resin-based sealers: These concrete driveway sealers that lay down an acrylic resin film provide excellent value for money. They can be blended with epoxy, polyurethane, or silicone to increase product durability, so read labels carefully. There are various types of acrylics, and some are superior to others. Styrene acrylic is a low-performance material that can turn yellow when exposed to direct sunlight. A better option is virgin or pure acrylic resin, which lasts longer and does not turn yellow.
Epoxy or polyurethane sealers: Epoxy or polyurethane sealers are significantly more expensive than acrylic sealers, but this does not necessarily imply that they are better. Because they form a thicker layer, they can be slippery, especially when applied to a patio or walkway. These products also keep moisture out of the concrete, which is a problem. If the concrete is not allowed to breathe, a white haze can form between the concrete and the sealer layer.
Penetrating sealers: These products are made of specialty resins (silicones, siloxanes, and silanes) that penetrate concrete and form a chemical barrier to water, oil, and other common contaminants. Such products will be clearly labelled as “penetrating” sealers and are ideal for protecting surfaces from stains, such as in a garage or on a driveway.
If you are interested in a concrete driveway sealer or concrete sealer from another concrete surface, contact our London concrete contractors today!