Concrete Sealer After Acrylic Staining

When you're finished applying an acrylic concrete stain, it's important to put a coat of clear concrete sealer on the surface. It will add protection and durability as well as enhance the colors and overall appearance. But be sure the surface is completely dry and free of any residues left from the stain.

Wait at least 24 hours or overnight for the surface to dry after cleaning. Check for any remaining residues by rubbing your finger on the surface. These residues can inhibit sealer adhesion. If you find any, clean the surface again until they're gone and let it dry.

Apply a coat of sealer using a pump sprayer or roller. A roller is usually better because it's easier to prevent puddling and there's no overspray. For exterior surfaces, two coats is recommended with a few hours drying time between. Also, with an exterior surface that's smooth, you can broadcast silica sand as you apply the first coat of sealer to create a nonslip surface. Many stores sell products specially made for this that are clear and work better with lighter stains. I highly recommend the non-slip additives if you're working on smooth patios, porches, and concrete steps. They can get very slippery and dangerous when wet, especially if you have children running around.

Important Sealer Info
Due to increasing environmental restrictions, solvent based sealers are becoming less available and have actually become illegal in some states. They are hazardous and do emit harmful fumes as the solvents are released. Manufacturers are working on and making higher quality "green" or water based sealers to replace solvent sealers. For this reason, I've decided to stop recommending the solvent sealers. I have become more confident in the quality and durability of the newer "green" products. Concrete Camouflage offers a great line of "green" products that are safe to ship and handle, eliminating a huge and costly hassle.

Concrete sealer will wear off over time, especially on exterior surfaces. You should put a fresh coat on every two years except for driveways which need sealed once a year because they take more abuse.

For interior floors, put just one coat of sealer on. After it's dry, add a couple coats of wax. This will prevent the need for any future coats of sealer.

Important:

Concrete sealer must be mixed well because the solids settle to the bottom as it sits on the shelf. Mixing is best achieved with an electric mixer at low rpms to prevent stirring in air bubbles.

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Concrete Sealer After Acrylic Staining