If you own a house, it is likely that concrete is one of the main materials used for its construction. Well, that’s because concrete is one of the most durable and common manmade materials on Earth.
Being among the most essential and extensively used material, there would be no solid foundations for buildings, bridges, sidewalks, or even roads without it. Still, we frequently forget to do the necessary steps and measures to protect our concrete investments for the long term.
It does not matter if you have a beautiful concrete patio or a driveway if you will not give importance to its maintenance needs. For sure you will do whatever you can to keep them attractive for long periods of time. Accordingly, using concrete sealing products will help protect your concrete while giving additional benefits.
Here, we will discuss the key benefits of sealing your concrete investments.
Concrete Sealers
There are three main types of sealers:
- Penetrating sealers, from the root word itself, it penetrates the concrete and forms a chemical barrier inside it that acts as a shield against moisture.
- Integral sealers are added to the concrete mix by authorised manufacturers. When using it, you receive the same benefits of a topical sealer, but the sealing will take effect immediately.
- Topical sealers are the most widely used. They are applied on the surface of the concrete that will form a protective layer. This is good for both indoor and outdoor applications. Plus, they are less costly.
The Benefits
1. Increase Reliability and Durability
When exterior concrete is exposed to harsh environmental elements, it will be more prone to damage, cracking, and other common concrete problems. However, by sealing your concrete, you will improve the durability of the concrete and fortify it so it will be more effective against wear and tear.
2. Prevent Molds Production
Concrete is permeable and absorbent, which means when left wet for long periods of time, it will absorb water and retain moisture. If this moisture does not dry, it will lead to the formation of mold and mildew, which can damage your concrete. By sealing the concrete, you’ll enhance its water-proofing mechanism.
3. Provide Instant Protection
Aside from wear and tear and inevitable natural elements, there are also other contributors to damage such as controlled factors like spilling of chemicals and harmful compounds. By having your concrete sealed, you can make sure that in any circumstance, your concrete is well-protected.
4. Improve Color
One clear sign that your concrete is getting damaged is discoloration. This will make your investment look old, dull, and lifeless. Thankfully, this can be prevented by the application of topical concrete sealer.
5. Prolong Lifespan
Did you know that an average concrete driveway can last up to 25 to 30 years? Well, yes, evidence shows that it is true. In line with that, your driveway may suffer from discoloration and cracking, causing early renovations and repairs. With concrete sealers, you can significantly increase the concrete’s lifespan and spare yourself from unnecessary additional costs.
The five benefits discussed will help you maintain concrete items and areas of your residential property. Additionally, concrete sealing is not just for short-term benefits, but it serves as a long-term protection for your concrete investments.