SEALING CONCRETE PATIOS

Source:www.stonediamondtool.com Date:2022/3/9 Read:177

How Do Sealers Improve Patio Appearance?

In addition to protecting colored concrete patios from fading, a sealer can also enhance and intensify the color. Depending on the type of sealer you apply, your options range from a natural matte finish to a high-gloss sheen.

Chemically reactive sealers are nearly invisible because they penetrate into the concrete, making them great choices for concrete patios that are stamped to replicate weathered stone. Water-based acrylic resin sealers will provide greater color enhancement and a low-gloss satin finish. And solvent-based acrylic sealers and epoxies will give concrete a high-gloss wet look and significantly deepen the color. There are also sealers specifically formulated to enhance the beauty of natural stone in exposed aggregate concrete .

Here are several examples of stamped and stained concrete patios that were enhanced by the application of a sealer:
Patio Showcases the Beauty of Natural Gray
Beautiful Chemistry
Concrete Patio Showcases Creative Staining
Tiered Concrete Patio Mimics Grouted Stone

Will a Sealer Make Concrete Patios Slippery?

Film-forming, high-gloss sealers can really intensify the color of a concrete patio, but they may also make the surface more slippery, especially when wet. That’s usually not a concern with exposed aggregate or textured concrete patio surfaces, but smooth, untextured concrete may require the use of anti-skid additives to improve the traction. Most of these additives are simply mixed into the sealer at the time of application and are transparent, so they won’t alter the color or appearance . Another option is to switch to a penetrating sealer that won’t form a surface film.

Can a Patio Sealer Be Colored?

Most clear water- and solvent-based sealers can be tinted, allowing you to add another layer of color to a decorative concrete finish. Some manufacturers offer pre-tinted sealers, while others provide tint concentrates that you can add to the sealer at the jobsite. A tinted sealer can also be used as a stand-alone, low-cost decorative finish if just a hint of color is desired. 

How Do I Prepare the Surface?

The answer to this question often depends on whether you’re applying sealer to a new of existing concrete patio. In order for a sealer to properly adhere to the concrete, the surface must be free of dirt, oil stains, existing coatings, and any other substance that might inhibit sealer penetration. Newly placed concrete patios typically require very little preparation, while existing surfaces may need to be power washed with soap and water and possibly acid etched.

The porosity of the concrete is also important and will determine how well the sealer will soak into the surface. If the sealer can't adhere, it won't be long before it peels off and flakes away. Because most patios are hand troweled, they are usually porous enough to accept a low-solids sealer without additional surface profiling. However, if the concrete is very tight or dense, you may need to open up the surface by light sanding or acid etching. For more guidance