Sealer is key to maintaining decorative and fine concrete, protecting your investment, and increasing curb appeal. You can save money by applying a sealant annually for maximum protection of your surface from stains or water penetration that will eventually cause efflorescence – the white powdery residue on surfaces that builds up over time.
Sealing stamped concrete is like waxing your car, wearing sunscreen, or spraying Scotchgard on your favorite shirt. A sealer will improve the appearance of this beautiful and popular paving material by preventing fading caused by UV rays and protecting it from harmful chemicals and stains.
Choosing the Best Sealer
The right sealer will make your stamped concrete look beautiful and great for many years or rejuvenate an existing stamped surface. Some people use Ultra Seal by Concrete Werks, a highly recommended product that is available from Amazon. Other sealers may not bond together very well with the surfaces of this type of material, so be careful when purchasing other products to avoid any compatibility issues down the line!
If you are not sure to do this, you may reach out to a stamped concrete contractor who can do the job for you.
Sealer Options
Stamped concrete is the best way to add some flair and personality to your home. A sealer can give it an eye-catching gloss or no sheen at all, depending on what you’re looking for in the final product. Different levels of color are also available with tinted sealers that will make any stamped surface more attractive than ever before!
Basic Steps for Sealing The Stamped Concrete
- Remove all the dirt off the stamped concrete surface with a pressure washer or garden hose.
- Apply a little amount of dish soap on the surface and scrub with a push broom.
- Rinse it properly with a pressure washer or garden hose until there is no sign of soapsuds.
- Completely dry the surface using a leaf blower or by waiting for a day to dry in the air. Do not apply a sealer to a wet surface.
- Once the surface dried, apply the sealer following the given instructions:
- Apply the sealer with a 1″ nap roller.
- Apply sealer in almost 2′ x 4′ sections. This will ensure complete coverage without missing spots.
- In general, a sealer needs to be applied when the temperature is above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. You can achieve the finest results by applying sealer during cold temperatures or before 9 am and after 5 pm in summer months when surface temperatures should be under 90F.
- A second coat needs to be applied after the first coat becomes non-sticky.
- Your stamped concrete need to be resealed each and every year to protect your investment. One 5-gallon pail of sealer will cover almost 1,000 square feet.
Author Profile
- Along with leading the team, Millard also works alongside different Fortune500 companies as their management Consultant/Financial Analyst, which shows his passion in helping other businesses grow.
