How to Seal Concrete Patio Blocks
Sealing concrete patio blocks is a necessary measure to reduce damage to the concrete. If a concrete patio becomes excessively wet, it may begin to crack during freezing and melting conditions. By sealing the concrete, the water will not penetrate the patio blocks, preventing them from cracking. Stains are much easier to remove from sealed concrete, and moss and algae have a harder time growing when concrete sealer has been applied. The advantages of sealing concrete are numerous. Applying a concrete sealer to patio blocks is a quick way to prevent serious problems in the future. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Broom
- Dish soap
- Water
- Stiff scrub brush
- Trisodium phosphate
- Concrete filler
- Putty knife
- Paint stirrer
- Paint tray
- Paint tray liner
- 1-inch nap paint roller
- Small paint brush
- Garden hose
Instructions
-
-
1
Clean the patio thoroughly. Sweep off loose dirt and debris with a broom. Scrub the concrete with dish soap and warm water using a stiff scrub brush. Remove tough stains by cleaning with trisodium phosphate and water. Allow the concrete patio to dry completely.
-
2
Repair any damaged areas of the patio blocks. Use concrete filler to fill in holes and cracks. Scrape off any imperfections using a putty knife.
-
-
3
Mix the can of sealer thoroughly using a paint stirrer. Pour the sealer into a paint tray with a disposable liner.
-
4
Dip a 1-inch nap paint roller into the tray. Roll a thin coat of sealer onto the patio blocks. Work in 2-by-4-foot sections so that you can clearly see where the sealer has been applied. Avoid over-applying the sealer. It is better to apply two thin coats than one heavy coat.
-
5
Continue applying the sealer until the entire concrete patio has been sealed. Stir the sealer frequently while working. Avoid puddling when applying the sealer by only applying a thin coat. Use a small paint brush to get the sealer into corners or hard-to-reach areas.
-
6
Allow the sealer to dry completely. Applying a second coat is optional. If you choose to apply a second coat, allow the first coat to dry for 24 hours before application.
-
7
Wait 48 hours after applying the final coat of sealer. Hose down the concrete patio blocks with plain water.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Apply sealer to concrete patio blocks when the weather report shows no precipitation for three to five days in a row. The temperature should be above 55 degrees F but under 90 degrees F when applying sealer.
Screw the nap roller onto a long pole to make sealing the patio more comfortable.
Reseal the concrete patio blocks every two to three years for optimal protection.
New concrete should cure for 30 days prior to applying sealer.
