Here you will learn about the different types of concrete sealers to help in deciding which to use. There are two basic types of sealers: those that form a membrane on the surface of concrete and those that penetrate below the surface.
Surface Sealers
The most widely used sealers are those that form a protective barrier on the surface to keep any foreign substance from being absorbed including water, salts, oils, rust, and most other chemicals and stains. These sealers include:
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. |
Penetrating Sealers
Penetrating sealers are mostly silicone-based and work by penetrating the surface and reacting with free lime to form calcium silicate. It's like filling the pores and capillaries with cement. They will actually strengthen the concrete itself and prevent water from migrating through the concrete. This can be especially beneficial to concrete that has begun to show signs of deterioration and basement walls to prevent water seepage. Penetrating concrete sealers will not alter the appearance of concrete nearly as much as surface sealers by not creating the shiny, wet look.
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