How to Apply Cement Sealer
Whether you have just poured new cement or are sprucing up an older patio or basement floor, it is important to seal concrete in order to keep it in good condition. Before you apply cement sealer, figure out what kind you will need--acrylic, epoxy or urethane--by talking to someone at your local home improvement store. Once you have figured out what kind of sealer you want and how much you will need, the rest is easy. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Pressure washer
- Detergent
- Water
- Garden sprayer or long-handled, thick-nap roller
- Cement sealer
- Goggles
- Painter's mask
- Protective clothing
- Gloves
Instructions
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1
Sweep the cement thoroughly before you do anything else, to remove any dust and debris.
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2
Use the power washer with a mixture of detergent and water to clean any stains off of old concrete. This step is not necessary with newly-poured concrete that has cured for at least 28 days.
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3
Let the concrete dry completely; you do not ever want to seal wet concrete. It is also best to start in the afternoon, after the day's heat has passed.
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4
Put on your painter's mask, goggles, gloves and protective clothing, and then use the garden sprayer or a long-handled, thick-nap roller to spread the sealer in a 4' x 4' area, taking care not to let any of the sealer puddle or pool.
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5
Let the sealer dry completely before deciding whether or not you need a second coat.
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Tips & Warnings
Mix a little sand with your sealer for a nonskid finish on patios and steps where children or the elderly will be spending time. Try a tinted sealer for a more colorful, sophisticated patio finish.
Do not use petroleum-based sealers indoors as they are flammable. Do not use non-breathable sealers in areas that routinely get below 32 F, because water trapped inside the concrete will freeze and cause cracks. Always follow the manufacturer's directions. When sealing a room, start at the farthest corner and work toward the door so that you don't trap yourself.
