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Concrete
sealers are grouped either as film-formers or penetrants, based
on how
they integrate with the concrete surface. Film-forming
sealers do just that - they form a protective film on
the surface of the concrete. "Film-formers create a surface
barrier for stain prevention and ease of maintenance",
says Estella from Dare Concrete. Film-formers' penetration
extends only into the surface pores. Straight acrylics, urethanes
and epoxies are examples of film-formers.
Acrylic sealers
are used frequently by decorative concrete contractors - indoors
or out. They are inexpensive, they have a nice initial shine and
they provide relatively good protection against water and chloride
(salt) intrusion, observes Estella. Most sealer technology is available
in solvent and water systems. Choosing the formulation you go with
depends on the application and the desired appearance. Solvent-based
acrylics enhance color better than water-based technology. As most
acrylic products are non-yellowing, they allow the surface colors
to shine through. These products can also be tinted to enhance
the color of aggregate in exposed aggregate applications or to
enhance integrally colored concrete.
For maintenance, surface sealed with acrylic products should be
kept clean. These sealers are easy to apply and repair. As a general
guide, exterior applications should be resealed or refreshed very
18 mos. To 2 years. Indoor use can last longer if a sacrificial
wax is used regularly.
Sealer-hardeners, too, are considered concrete sealers by some.
These products seal and densify the concrete surface, so for this
discussion they exceed the parameters of sealer.
Urethanes and epoxies are good choices when durability and stain
resistance is important. Epoxies are a thicker product, and an
indoor application which has more abrasion resistance than some
of the other products. They can be tinted to custom colors and
are ideal for industrial environments. It is thinner than an epoxy
coating, but still has the high impact durability. On the down
side, urethanes and epoxies are more expensive than acrylic products.
If quick turn around time is important, these products may not
be the way to go. The time requirements for epoxy and urethane
are huge - 12 to 16 hours dry time for heavy traffic. Urethanes
can last five to eight years; epoxies can last to 15 years. Life
expectancy can be dramatically increased with the use of a well-maintained
sacrificial wax.
Penetrating sealers migrate into the top layer of the concrete
surface and work well to repel moisture and stains. Sometimes these
sealers are described as reactive. Silanes, siloxanes and fluorinated
resins are examples of penetrating sealers. These sealers typically
do not change the appearance of the surface, leaving the concrete
with a natural look. These sealers are expensive but easy to apply,
and often used by state highway departments on bridge surfaces.
Parking garages are another good application.
Surface preparation
and maintenance are keys to longevity to any kind of sealer.
Proper cleaning, surface pH, surface temperature,
surface dryness. Longevity of a sealer usually depends on
the wear and tear of the surface, the maintenance schedule, and
the use of proper chemicals to clean the floors - watch
out for ammonia and other harsh chemicals and cleaners.
To choose which kind of sealer is more appropriate for your project
ask yourself a few questions: Are you concerned about UV resistance?
Moisture, stains or chemicals? Abrasion resistance? What are your
state and local regulations regarding solvent-based products? How
long the sealer will last? Does the manufacturer provide a warranty?
There is a sealer for just about every concrete application - horizontal
and vertical, as well as concrete pavers, masonry, stucco, unglazed
tile, natural and manufactured stone, and brick. However, there
is no sealer that can be used for all applications, states Estella.
In making
your final decision about a sealer, remember the sealer is a
small part
of the overall cost of a project. It's not
the place to save pennies. A less expensive system initially might
add up to a costly mistake down the road. Imagine saving 25 cents
a foot initially but having to shut down operations in a year to
refinish a worn and damaged sealer system. It's like to
relate price to cost of maintenance. Explain this to the customer
and always offer a couple of options for their review. After all,
making the right sealer choice enhances and prolongs the life of
your hard work.
For free estimates, concrete repair and maintenance, and new construction
please call us at 252-480-9223 or send an email to info@dareconcrete.com. |
