What Is the Procedure to Seal a Concrete Patio?
Sealing a concrete patio protects it from natural elements, frequent wear and tear, and preserves the color of the bricks. Whether you want to apply sealant to a new concrete patio to maximize its longevity or improve the condition of an existing patio, the process is straightforward. Sealed concrete is stain resistant and provides you with an attractive surface that can last for years. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types of Sealants
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Four primary types of concrete sealants exist: polyurethane, epoxy, acrylic and penetrating. Depending on the type of concrete your patio consists of, each stain has its considerations. Ask the patio installers or refer to the manufacturer's instructions, if you installed the patio yourself, to see which stain best suits your concrete. Polyurethane and acrylic sealants add a luster to decorative concrete surfaces. A penetrating sealant is translucent with a matte finish while epoxy is typically used indoors.
Applying the Sealant
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Only a few basics steps are required to seal a concrete patio. Unless you are working with a new surface, you need to clean the concrete first or the sealant will trap dirt and stains. You can apply most sealants with either a roller paint brush or a spray pump brush. Once the first coat is dry and not tacky, you can apply a second coat. A 1-gallon pail of sealant covers about 1,000 square feet.
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Reapplication
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The instructions on the sealant you use will suggest a frequency for reapplication. Typically, sealant should be reapplied every 1 to 3 years. If your patio is exposed to a high volume of foot traffic, water, harsh weather or chemicals, the color can fade if the patio is not sealed every season.
Considerations
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Residential concrete is a porous material. If your concrete patio is located near a pool area, look for a deep-penetrating slip-resistant sealant. Penetrating sealant fills the pores, strengthening the surface. If your concrete patio is plain gray or blemished, you can use a colored sealant to give the surface a new look. Combined stains and sealants waterproof your surface while adding permanent color.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Red patio furniture image by Scott Latham from Fotolia.com
