Concrete Sealing: Protecting Your Investment from Damage

In the Mix with Cemstone’s Business Development Engineers

John Lee, P.E. & Jim Grothaus, P.E.

June 26, 2024

Properly sealed concrete helps maintain the appearance and durability of the concrete after it has had adequate time to cure, which is a minimum of twenty-eight days after placement. Sealing is designed to keep moisture and contaminants, like deicing chemicals, from penetrating into the concrete. Since sealers eventually degrade from wear and environmental exposure and thus no longer function as intended, concrete should be sealed regularly following the sealer manufacturer’s instructions or as needed.

We recommend the following when sealing your concrete:

• Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
• Prior to sealing or resealing, an aggressive power wash or power brooming may be required to remove any dirt, stains, or dissipating curing compounds from the concrete surface.
• Allow the concrete to adequately dry before applying sealer.
• For stubborn stains that are difficult to remove, contact your Cemstone Account Representative for assistance. They can provide a list of specialized products and methods tailored to effectively remove stains without damaging the surface.

Caring for and maintaining your investment with:

Acrylic Based Concrete Sealers 

The recommended acrylic based concrete sealers (right) are solvent based, non-yellowing, and fast-drying. Easy to apply with a sprayer and a roller. Each product offers a different finish and surface effect.

Penetrating Sealers 

Penetrating sealers create a barrier on the concrete. These sealers saturate and absorb into the surface providing lasting protection against moisture and deicing chemicals. These recommended penetrating sealers are breathable, and result in a non-yellowing, natural finish. Easy to apply with a sprayer and a roller. Penetrating sealers are not be used when a liquid membrane-forming curing compound or sealer is still present on the concrete surface.

To learn more about sealing and to see if it’s the right solution for your project, contact Cemstone’s Business Development Engineers. We’ll use the latest industry tools and knowledge to offer you recommendations with the goal of creating a successful, cost effective, long lasting concrete pavement or slab.

Access our detailed curing and sealing guide for further information and to print.