Whether you’re getting a new driveway, sidewalk, patio or you have an existing one, it’s important that you properly protect and maintain your investment. A good sealer can keep your concrete/pavers looking great for many years to come, or rejuvenate a lackluster surface. Sealing concrete/pavers can be compared to waxing your car or wearing sunscreen. A sealer will improve your decorative concrete/pavers appearance, keep it from fading due to UV exposure and protect it from stains.
Whether your concrete is plain, colored or stamped, sealing after the slab has cured as well as every few years after, is recommended as part of the maintenance plan. A sealed concrete will have a rich color and glossy sheen if desired. You can even select a tinted sealer that will further enhance the color of your patio. For colored patios, a sealer will also help prevent efflorescence. Slip resistant sealers are also available. These are great for using on patios near outdoor cooking areas, where sprinklers may get the concrete wet or in humid climates.
Another benefit of sealing a concrete is stain protection. In the great outdoors there are a number of things that can leave unsightly stains on the surface of your concrete – leaves, dirt, fertilizer, pet urine, oil, spilled drinks and much more. The right sealer will keep all of the above from penetrating the surface of the concrete and leaving an unsightly stain.
A third reason why you should seal your concrete is that it will reduce the chance of freeze thaw damage. Freeze thaw damage can cause cracks or surface flaking and is caused by water penetrating the surface of the concrete and then expanding as it freezes. A sealer will keep water from sinking into the concrete. You know your sealer is working because water will bead on the surface. When this no longer happens it is time to reseal your patio. High traffic areas of your concrete may need resealing on a frequent basis.
Another reason to seal the concrete is to inhibit mold. Concrete is porous, which means that it absorbs moisture. If this moisture doesn’t dry, it will create mold. Mold and mildew can form on concrete that is left wet for extended periods of time. This can cause a green discoloration to appear on your concrete surface. When you seal your concrete, you inhibit mold growth. This helps protect your concrete and keeps it looking better for longer.
In conclusion, a sealer will enhance and protect your concrete. When properly sealed and resealed the service life of concrete is greatly extended. We recommend using penetrating sealers outdoors because it sinks down into the concrete and has a more natural, matte finish. We recommend applying the sealer after 30 days, after the new concrete is completely cured.
I never thought that mold could be an issue for concrete. I have heard that mold is pretty bad for your health though, so it would be good to prevent it. I should consider getting my concrete patio sealed so I could prevent any mold growth.
Mold is often caused by excess condensation or sitting water, and often occurs after flooding or leakage. The first step is to identify and fix any leaks and remove any standing water. Also, you may consider to waterproof your concrete. To prevent condensation that may form, add extra insulation to an area and create plenty of circulation in dark, dank areas (basements and garages) by utilizing fans, dehumidifiers, or other ventilation systems to avoid moisture build-up.
Basements commonly generate concrete mold, so it may be best not to carpet these areas since mold can easily enter and stay in the fibers. To prevent flooding make sure all piping and gutter systems are properly working so water is always diverted away from the house. It may be a good idea to put a plastic cover over crawlspaces and windows leading to a basement as to prevent any ground-level water from coming in. Also, avoid storing papers, clothing in these areas.
If you are in the area Tylor and you need help, let us know!