What is the difference between a concrete sealer and a concrete coating? Generally speaking a concrete sealer is a penetrating formulation or a lighter topical solution that either seeps into the concrete or is suspended on the surface. Concrete sealers are usually classified as acrylic sealers, silicate sealers and silane/siloxane formulations. A concrete coating on the other hand sits on the surface of the concrete and builds up and protects through the layers of coatings. Concrete coatings are usually classified as epoxies, urethanes and polyaspartics.
Concrete Sealers:
- Silicates: penetrating sealers in either a sodium, lithium or potassium carrier that seep into the concrete, chemically react to form calcium silicate hydrate and thus densifying.
- Silane/Siloxanes: water repellents that form a hydrophobic barrier to seals out moisture while chemically bonding with the substrate.
- Acrylics: water based or solvent based decorative sealers that enhance the surface and repels water.
Concrete Coatings:
- Epoxies: coating used to prime or coat concrete to stop dusting, add chemical resistance and abrasion resistance properties.
- Urethanes: coating usually applied on top of an epoxy to add additional protection from chemicals, wear and UV rays.
- Polyaspartics: fast drying urethanes applied on top of an epoxy with a faster tack free dry time
Concrete sealer and concrete coatings manufacturers: Kretetek, Eagle Sealer, H&C, LMCC, Moxie, New Look, Okon, Prosoco, Scofield
