If you are considering applying a beautiful stain to your concrete floor, don’t forget the most important step – adding a sealer. Concrete is a very durable and long-lasting material, but if water is allowed into the surface it can be ruined. This flooring material is very porous so liquid is able to damage it in several different ways. Any acid spill (turpentine, gasoline, etc.) can sink in and eat away at the concrete, ruining the color and causing pits to appear in the surface. Water or other liquids that get further down will freeze in winter; these frozen pockets expand, causing the concrete to bend, buckle, or crack. Applying a concrete sealer can prevent these problems, as well as adding an aesthetic finish to your indoor or outdoor floor.
First you need to decide on what type of sealer. This can be determined by the nature of finish you want, as well as the amount of maintenance you are willing to put in. Exterior surfaces will benefit from a more heavy duty sealer that repels water and other liquids. Interior floors need less protection, but it might be wise to opt for a sealer that reduces dust and prevents scuff marks. There are certain concrete stains that include sealer in a ready-made double duty form. Research your sealer well, making the right choice can guarantee a beautiful and durable concrete floor.
When it comes to the actual sealing, you will need the right tools. Look for a water bucket, a sturdy brush, a paint roller, and a paint brush. These materials can most likely be found wherever you bought your sealer. Don’t forget protective clothing – it is important to wear goggles as well as gloves and try to limit skin exposure to the chemicals.
