Adding A Glossy Touch to Protect Concrete Decorated Floor with Concrete Sealing

• Posted on HDNEditor
• in Construction
• on May 10, 2017
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We all know how decorative concrete floors change the aesthetics of the place where they are applied and the best way to keep them looking great is to seal and protect their surface. Concrete sealing has to be resealed periodically in order to lock in the colour, protect the surface from dirt and maintain its glossy appeal.

Sealers close every gap in the concrete surgery

Acrylic sealers help produce a smoother and glossier surface that is easier to clean and maintain than unsealed concrete. Concrete sealants are thick liquids that can close any gaps on the concrete floors. This prevents the seepage of water or escape of radon gas, as well as providing a shield against the penetration of salt, alkalis and oils. It is ideally recommended to reseal every 18 to 24 months to retain the lustre of the surface and extend the life of the concrete flooring.

Moisture content damages concrete and furniture

Wetness deep within concrete can make its way to the top, causing organic growth such as mould and mildew. When moisture gathers beneath mats and carpets, it causes the mats and carpets to roll up. Any cardboard or plywood in contact with the floor will absorb moisture and lose structural integrity.

Dust and oil patches do not help with good sealing

Proper removal of oil, dust, water, dirt or grease from the surface of the decorated concrete must be done before you pour the sealer on the surface of the concrete. This improves the adhesion of sealant with the concrete surface due to the presence of these materials. Sealers are either solvents or water-based and upon this depends on the process of applying the sealer on the surface.

Depending on the type of sealant, either a sprayer or a roller is used to spread the sealant on the surface. The porosity of the sealer is decided based on the type of flooring on which the sealant is being applied. A smoother surface requires thinner sealants and a rougher surface would require a thicker sealant. Thin coats of sealants are applied one over the other to get the desired finish. This will also avoid the possibility of any unevenness.

Important points to note while installing concrete sealing

One must apply the sealant only after the concrete decoration has completely dried. Dry concrete is necessary to ensure the correct adhesion between the sealant and the concrete floor. air temperature, air pressure, and humidity of the area also play an important role in the final stability of the coating. The type of sealant used should be adjusted depending on these factors so that the drying process is correct.

Allow traffic only after the new sealant coat is dry

You also need to let the sealer dry completely before allowing any traffic over it.  A coat of wax over the sealant will give a good finish and add longevity to the sealant and the concrete decoration surface. Wax coating can also extend the need for resurfacing with another coat of sealant by more than a year.

There are many brands of sealants available, and many companies offer concrete surface sealing. You must check the credentials of both the brand and the company that is providing this type of sealing before you take the plunge, because if low-quality sealants are used, you still stand to lose all your investment, plus you will have to reinvest very soon in redoing the floor. The company that you select must have good experience playing the sealant, as improper laying of the sealant also has the same effect as using a poor quality sealant. Improper sealant laying has the same disadvantage as not having a sealant coating. Surf the net and research the online reviews about both the brand and the sealing company to ensure that you have a beautiful floor for a long time.

Below is a brief list of tips you must keep in mind when you plan to undertake concrete sealing.

1. Search the internet, and you can see numerous concrete sealant companies in your locality.
2. Enquire about their credentials and their portfolio.
3. Obtain a quote from the company with itemised price details.
4. Before beginning work, double check for areas which need to be re-concreted, like cracks or unevenness.
5. Check for areas with dirt or oil, remove them using appropriate cleaning materials.
6. Use a sealant brand suggested by your local concrete sealing experts that is suitable for the texture of your floor.
7. More coats may be required in areas that have higher traffic.
8. Do not allow traffic unless the sealant has fully dried.

Hopefully, you will get all the necessary information about concrete sealing after reading the above mention details.