Question: Should I use a concrete sealer?
Answer: Concrete sealers should always be used as soon as the concrete slab has been poured and fully cured for 28 days. A concrete sealer will help to increase the lifespan of the concrete by protecting it from UV exposure, cracking, pitting, staining and surface wear to name a few. Concrete sealers can be used on old concrete and new concrete and are relatively inexpensive. It is better to seal the concrete than it is to replace an old, worn and damaged slab years down the line.
When it comes to deciding, “should I use a concrete sealer?” you first need to determine what type of protection you are looking for. If your main purpose for sealing is to make the concrete look nice you are going to want to use a decorative concrete sealer. Decorative concrete sealers are usually acrylic sealers that will leave a wet look or high gloss finish to enhance and bring out the colors and textures of the slab. Decorative concrete sealers do require frequent reapplication and maintenance to maintain their decorative look year after year. If you are looking for the most durable interior concrete floor sealer, used an epoxy and/or urethane concrete coating. Concrete coatings are able to protect warehouse floors, garage floors and kennels from chemicals, acids and abrasions. They are usually available in a clear or colored format and you can add decorative elements such as paint flakes and metallic sands. If the concrete is prepped accordingly they can last upwards of ten years before needing to be reapplied. If your main purpose for sealing is road salt or waterproofing protection, use a penetrating concrete sealer. Penetrating concrete sealers leave a clear finish that will not change the look of the concrete. However, they are excellent choices when it comes to protection from moisture intrusion, deicing salts, surface staining and corrosion. Penetrating sealers last anywhere from 5-10 years and do not need to be stripped when it comes time for reapplication.
If you need additional help selecting the best concrete sealer for your application read our Best Concrete Sealers article.