Concrete driveway sealer helps prevent potential damage and stains from vehicle fluid leaks and ice salts. Here’s how to prepare and seal your concrete so it will remain durable over time.
Before You Begin
Before you begin the sealing process, you want to make sure your concrete surface is stable and in good condition. If the concrete is sagging, cracked or uneven, you should fix these issues now, or they will only get worse over time. Instead of spending thousands of dollars replacing your patio or driveway, consider having the surface restored at an affordable price using innovative mudjacking techniques, perfected by the experts at AAA Concrete Raising.
Discreet and noninvasive, the mudjacking process involves the injection of materials underneath the sagging or cracked concrete. As this wet slurry hardens, the surface is leveled and stabilized, allowing you to effectively seal the concrete without having to worry about any future stability problems. If you notice sagging or cracks throughout your existing driveway or patio, give us a call, and we can level the surface before you begin work.
Preparing the Concrete
Before you apply sealer, you need to thoroughly clean the surface and remove any oil or chemical stains that might interfere with adhesion. If you try to apply sealer over a dirty or oil-stained concrete surface, you will have bonding difficulties, and the sealer will flake away after only a short time. Be sure to spend ample time and attention carefully cleaning and prepping your driveway to ensure a more attractive, longer-lasting finish.
Step 1
Soak up any fresh oil stains using a powdered spill absorber. Then, spray a degreasing cleanser on deep stains and scrub these away using a coarse scrub brush.
Step 2
Remove any paint stains using a paint stripper or solvent. Scrub the paint free using a clean, coarse brush.
Step 3
Wash away any dirt or rust stains using a quality rust or concrete cleaner. You may need to dilute the product first; be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s specifications.
After treating all stains, thoroughly wash your driveway using a pressure washer and allow the surface to dry.
Sealing
Once the concrete has fully dried for at least a full day, you can apply the sealer. Bear in mind that newer concrete may already be coated with a sealer that’s still in relatively good condition. In these instances, the concrete will not accept a new sealer. You can test to see if your concrete has an existing layer of sealer by placing a few drops of water on the surface. If it beads up, it means there is already a sealer in place. If it soaks into the concrete, there is likely no remaining sealer, and it’s safe to apply a fresh coat by following these steps:
Step 1
Put on splash-resistant goggles and a pair of chemical-resistant work gloves.
Step 2
If you’re using a sprayer, pour the sealing product into the tank. Use the sprayer to thoroughly cover the concrete surface with overlapping strokes, being careful not to allow the sealer to pool up anywhere. If you do accidentally get buildup, use an absorbent rag to remove the excess. Complete the first coat and allow it to dry according to the product specifications.
If you are using a roller and brush, apply the sealer just as you would paint a wall. Use a large brush to work the sealer into the seams and edges. If you notice rippling buildup, run the paintbrush over it to force the excess sealer forward. Complete the first coat and allow it to dry according to the product specifications.
Step 3
Read the individual product instructions before beginning your second coat. Some sealers recommend that you apply the second coat at a completely different angle for better coverage. Once you’ve applied the second coat, allow it to dry and cure according to the product specifications.
AAA Concrete Raising has served Colorado homeowners and businesses for more than two full decades. Our innovative concrete raising company uses modern equipment that eliminates the need for any sort of noisy, awkward machinery. This ensures a speedy, neat, and efficient job that won’t disrupt the neighborhood. Contact our team for all your concrete restoration needs.