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The last step in making the countertop is applying a concrete countertop sealer
Concrete in it's natural state is porous and will absorb foreign substances. Sealer is used to create an impermeable barrier to prevent staining and bacterial growth within the pores. Therefore, it's imperative that your countertop be sealed for aesthetic as well as health reasons.
What type of concrete countertop sealer should you use? There are several types of sealers and methods. This is a highly debated topic among professionals because right now the perfect sealer for concrete countertops doesn't exist. You will find many different opinions on which is best, so I will try to keep it simple for you.
Epoxy Sealer - Very strong and durable sealer that creates a high gloss, shiny finish. Some think it takes away from the natural beauty of concrete and makes it look "plastic". Don't use outside because it's not UV resistant. It can be problematic if not applied correctly. Not recommended for DIY concrete countertops.
Urethane Sealer - Very strong and durable. Available in high gloss or satin. Can also be problematic if not applied correctly or in right conditions. Very strong and toxic odor. Not recommended for DIY countertops.
Penetrating Sealer - Verdict is still out on this one. Some contractors use it in conjunction with wax to maintain the natural appearance. It's a reactive sealer and should be reserved for professional use.
Water Based Acrylic - Not as strong but UV resistant and very user friendly. Available in gloss or satin. Wax recommended for sacrificial coat.
For DIY concrete countertop sealer, I recommend water based acrylic sealers because they are safe and easy. The idea is to keep it simple to avoid the many pitfalls that can happen. Believe it or not, the sealing process can be the most difficult step if you attempt to use products that require experience. Water based acrylics are rolled on just like you would paint. After it dries, apply a few coats of food safe wax and buff it.
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