© 2009 Anderqual Handyman & Remodeling Service

Why seal concrete

Concrete, due to being porous, has a tendency to absorb salts and water, which in turn lead to spoiling of both the appearance and also affects the surface of the concrete, making it all the more necessary to have a sealer. Also being porous concrete is very  vulnerable  to staining

Ice is another major threat to Concrete. The water that is absorbed during winters assumes the form of ice, which expands. This expansion leads to cracks or spilling. All this can be done away with the help of  Concrete Sealer, which has chemicals that fight against the action of water, thereby offering protection.

 

Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete is a beautiful surface for driveways and pool decks. Concrete is poured, leveled, and a colored powder is applied, making the concrete one solid color. If left unprotected, colors will eventually wear off or fade and the beauty of the surface will diminish. Though damage to the color can be improved, it cannot be repaired. Therefore, it is recommended that stamped concrete be resealed every three years. Routinely sealing stamped concrete will preserve its natural beauty indefinitely.

 

Concrete Patios

Even simple standard concrete patios should be sealed. As stated earlier concrete is porous and will absorb water when the water freezes it will expand and cause cracks or “pop”off little bits and pieces. Another reason is that patios are used by people and people spill food. Concrete is vulnerable to food and drink stains due to its porous nature. Other stain causing factors can be plant litter(berries,leaves,fruit) or bird droppings. Using a good sealer can reduce or prevent staining

 

Driveways

Sealing a concrete driveway is a simple, inexpensive and fast way to maintain the value of a home. Your concrete driveway is one of the first things people see when they drive up to your home. That is why it is a good idea to keep the concrete driveway looking as good as the day it was installed. Concrete driveways are high traffic areas, with cars entering and leaving and kids using them for basketball courts. That is why your concrete driveway needs to have a penetrating sealer as opposed to a surface sealer.

A surface sealer is just that, it is applied to the surface and does not penetrate. The surface sealer will wear away rapidly from use. Every time a car pulls in or someone bounces a ball on it, a little bit of the sealer is removed. Some surface sealers can make the driveway slick and dangerous when it rains because the rough texture is covered up.

On the other hand, a siloxane sealer penetrates below the concrete surface. Siloxane sealers form a hydrophobic barrier against water and de-icing salt attack. They are commonly called siloxane water repellents. Because they are below the surface, they are protected from wear on the surface of the concrete. The natural texture of the concrete is maintained so traction and safety are not a concern. Finally, because the concrete sealer is below the surface, there is no shininess or gloss to the concrete.

Pavers

Pavers are extremely durable, and they add a unique look to the ground that it's laid on. However, as the pavers are exposed to the environment, the bricks can age and start to look old and dirty. This is caused by water, dirt, grease or grime that may have accumulated over the years. Also, sand may come loose over time. Fortunately, brick pavers can be protected with sealers.

 

Annual Maintenance

Once concrete sealer  is applied it is not forever, sealant will need to be reapplied every 2-4 years depending on the weather exposure or the amount of traffic it receives.

 

Here to help

Whether its a first time application or a re coat Anderqual Handyman will start by first pressure washing your project clean then apply the proper sealant depending on the application. You can be assured your concrete or pavers will be protected for years to come. Give us a call (847)756-3808 or email us today for your FREE ESTIMATE.