Different Types of Sealers for Concrete

There are different types of sealers used for concrete floors. Let us see what these are.   

Film-Forming and Penetrating Sealers 

To keep decorative concrete or even plain-looking attractive for a long time, our experts at Tuff Build strongly recommend high-quality concrete sealers. 

Once sealed, the concrete will be protected from spills, grime and weather to prevent any staining and also to reduce wear.   

Sealing for industrial and commercial environments that have high traffic is also important as it will ensure easy maintenance of the surface and will keep the floor appealing for over a long span.  

Types of Sealers 

• Film forming  

• Penetrating 

Both will offer different benefits and each suitable for different applications.   

Film Forming Sealers 

Film-forming sealers are also known as surface-coating or topical sealers. 

The sealer sticks to the pores of concrete and also sticks on the top of the surface and creates a protective layer. The sealers offer excellent protection from spills and moisture. These are highly durable, and very easy to maintain and reapply.  

3 Types of Film-Forming Sealers 

Acrylic Sealers 

These sealers are commonly used for general protection from grime and dirt for both indoor and outdoor applications. These sealers form a thin layer of protection on the concrete surface.  

Acrylic sealers are easy and quick to apply and they tend to be the more cost-effective option, however, due to the protection from thin layer, these can wear out easily and might require recoating – it is available in both solvent-based and water-based formulations. These also come in a variety of sheen levels which enhance the stamped pattern, colour of the surface, and exposed aggregate. 

Polyurethane Sealers 

Polyurethane sealers provide a hard-wearing and non-yellowing protective layer both for interior and exterior applications. 

These are versatile sealers that can achieve a variety of sheen and can also be tinted. These are commonly used in the areas that receive high traffic as these provide good protection against abrasive materials and chemicals.  

These sealers are also available in both water and solvent-based formulations which suit a variety of environments like shopping centers.    

Epoxy Sealers 

Epoxy sealers are perfect for interior applications where sturdy, durable and long-lasting surface protection is needed. There are different epoxy sealers you can choose from and every sealer has its own benefits. For example, some have faster drying turnaround times for areas like shopping centers. Also, these provide great strength for industrial as well as commercial areas such as car parks and public garages.  

The end-result you get is a glossy finish but if you need a more natural, matte finish, a matte additive can also be added into it.  

To summarize, some of the benefits of using a film-forming sealer on concrete are as follows: 

• Enhances the colour of the surface. 

• Prevents contaminants from penetrating the surface. 

• Protects the surface from damage and makes it easier to clean and maintain. 

• Protects from environmental elements. 

• A range of products suitable for a myriad of applications. 

Penetrating Sealers 

These sealers retain a natural finish while protecting the concrete surface from water, contaminants and stains.  

These sealers penetrate into the capillaries of the concrete which forms a long-lasting and durable barrier of protection against the ingress of water-borne salts and pollutants.  

These sealers are often used in indoor and outdoor applications for porous natural stone, concrete and pavers.

 

There are a lot of penetrating sealers available and all are designed for special purposes like:  

General Purpose 

These are ideal for using on large commercial or industrial concrete areas. These provide a good level of protection from general spills and grime.  

Substrate Color Enhancement 

This will make a good choice, especially where there is a need to bring out colour of the concrete while also providing protection from stains and contaminants.   

Stain Blocking 

These are designed for public precincts, alfresco dining spaces and food service areas because these places need oil and staining resistance to drink spills and food.  

Industrial Protection 

This offers 3-way protection for industrial concrete substrates. This helps in dusting, wear and staining from grease and oils.   

Common Questions for Sealing Concrete 

Can You Seal New Concrete? 

A sealer should be applied only after freshly laid concrete has been allowed to cure for 28 days. 

Can You Seal Existing Concrete? 

You can seal existing concrete any time and also on multiple occasions. Sealing the old concrete can help in restoring its appearance. 

For the existing slabs, make sure you clean the surface before applying another sealer. For guidance on preparation and cleaning, get in touch with us.  

What If Your Concrete Requires Resealing? 

Resealing your concrete is possible. Speak with the team at Tuff Build about the prep work and the best products that are required to reseal the concrete. We can also put you in touch with our trade professionals who will help in completing the project.   

Signs That Concrete Needs to Be Resealed? 

Water soaks into the surface instead of beading on the top and the sealer appears scratched, dirty and worn out. 

How Often Should You Reseal Your Concrete? 

This factor will depend on the type of sealer, the level of usage of the area and the lifespan of the sealer.   

Will Concrete Sealing Change its Appearance? 

It depends on the type of sealer you choose- film-forming sealers are able to enhance the colour and give a glossy finish even when sealers offer a natural matte finish. It is possible to use a coloured sealer as it guarantees a change to the existing colour of the concrete. 

What Makes a Good Sealer? 

A good sealer prolongs the life of your concrete, enriches and preserves its appearance, provides protection against contaminants, stains and moisture, and makes it easier to clean and maintain your concrete. The best sealers do all the above and are breathable, which allows any moisture and air to rise to the surface of concrete and escape.  

To ensure that decorative concrete lasts long and stays attractive, it is essential for you to seal it. The benefits range from protecting the surface, preventing stains, reducing the cleaning and maintenance requirements. Coatings and sealers make it easier to clean stains or even grime from the surface. 

There are three types of film-forming sealers: 

• Acrylic 

• Polyurethane 

• Epoxy 

Each of the above offers unique benefits, while providing gloss to the surface. Penetrating sealers provide a natural look to the surface of the concrete which offers a long-lasting and durable barrier to a number of contaminants. 

If you have any questions or are working on a project and need assistance specifying the right sealer, get in touch with Tuff Build, the concrete sealer installer.