A Complete Guide to Concrete Sealing Near Me
Concrete is a durable material that is used to create a wide variety of structures. Sidewalks, driveways, patios, and parking lots are a few examples. Why build these structures out of concrete instead of some other substance? Because concrete is a highly durable material, it is able to stand the test of time, making for longer-lasting structures. However, this doesn’t mean that concrete is invincible. Concrete can actually become damaged in several different ways—which is exactly why concrete sealing near me is worth the investment.
In this blog, we’ll talk about concrete sealing, how it works, and why it is so beneficial for your concrete. If you decide to invest in sealing your concrete, you’re invited to reach out to us! At Southwest Pressure Washing, it’s always our pleasure to serve the Cincinnati community, and we would love to lend you a hand next.
How Concrete Becomes Damaged
Why should concrete be sealed? Before anything else, it’s important to understand how concrete becomes damaged in the first place. One of the biggest causes of concrete damage is Mother Nature herself. For example, whenever it rains, snows, or hails, concrete will collect moisture, slowly eroding it over time. Additionally, organic debris such as moss, mold, and algae will cause wear and tear to concrete, shortening its lifespan. Finally, anytime someone walks or drives on concrete, the friction will weather the concrete ever so slightly. Over time, all this damage adds up, resulting in a damaged surface that may even require repairs.
Concrete sealing is an effective way of preventing all these damages. So, what exactly is concrete sealing? It’s the process of applying a thin, transparent substance atop your concrete, acting as a barrier between it and the outside world. Thanks to this sealer, your concrete won’t be subjected to damage. Instead, the sealer will absorb the impact, allowing you to avoid costly concrete repairs in the long run.
What Surfaces Can Be Sealed?
If you are interested in protecting your concrete, you’re probably wondering what kinds of concrete surfaces can be sealed. The answer is just about all of it! When looking into concrete sealing near me, understand that it’s typically used for flat concrete structures. Seal your driveway to ensure you make a good first impression on your guests. Seal your patio to preserve your property’s go-to hangout spot. You can even seal an entire parking lot to maintain a presentable and attractive commercial property.
If you are unsure if your concrete surface can be sealed, contact us online and ask! One of our team members will be happy to help you. You can also schedule a concrete sealing appointment with us and avoid the process of doing the work on your own.
Pressure Washing Before Sealing Concrete
Before sealing concrete, it is highly recommended that you have it pressure washed. This is because concrete is constantly accumulating debris, and if this debris is still on your concrete when you seal it, you’re effectively trapping it. By sealing dirty concrete, you’re ensuring that it stays dirty permanently, or at least until the sealer is removed.
Our suggestion is that you have your concrete pressure washed a few days before your sealing appointment. That way, it won’t just be clean, but it will also have time to dry. Don’t want to pressure wash your own concrete? We offer full-service pressure washing, so if you need us to help with this task, just ask!
How Concrete Sealing Near Me Works
Let’s not beat around the bush any longer. It’s time to talk about how the concrete sealing process works! The good news is that it’s not terribly complicated. To successfully seal concrete, you’ll need the right equipment for the work, including a bucket of sealer, a stirring stick, a paint tray, a paint brush, and drop cloths. You may also want to consider wearing some clothes you don’t care about. An old tee shirt and pants will do. You may splatter liquid sealer on them, but if they’re just rags, there’s no harm done, right?
Begin by placing drop cloths on any surfaces next to the concrete to be sealed. That way, you won’t accidentally get any liquid sealer on them. Next, open the bucket of sealer, stir it with the stirring stick, and pour some into your paint tray. Finally, use the paintbrush to apply a thin layer of the liquid onto the concrete. An even application is necessary because an uneven layer of sealer is more likely to peel or crack in the immediate future.
Don’t Forget Dry Time
Once you’ve finished sealing your concrete, don’t start using it immediately. That liquid sealer won’t dry right away. In fact, you’ll need to give it up to forty-eight hours to solidify into a strong, reliable barrier that will protect your concrete from harm. So please, avoid using the concrete surface until that time has passed. Walking or driving on the concrete while the concrete sealer is still setting will result in an uneven application and force you to seal the entire surface all over again. That would be frustrating, huh?
After forty-eight hours have passed, you’ll have the opportunity to use the concrete surface again. Put furniture and decorations back on your concrete patio, or park your vehicles on your concrete driveway again. Enjoy a longer-lasting concrete surface that will last for many, many years to come!
Our Professional Concrete Sealing
Don’t want to seal your concrete on your own? Looking for professional concrete sealing near me? If so, say hello to Southwest Pressure Washing, a locally owned and operated business. We are prepared to seal just about any kind of concrete surface you have for us. What’s more, we’ll do it for a reasonable price. The final cost of your appointment is based on the size of the concrete surface you need us to seal. There are never hidden fees at Southwest Pressure Washing.