Your driveway is an essential element of your home’s exterior. Because of that, maintaining its longevity and appearance is crucial.
One way to ensure the long-term durability and aesthetic appeal of your concrete driveway is by applying a sealant. Sealing your concrete driveway provides numerous benefits that go beyond just improving its appearance.
In this article, we explore the best practices and steps to follow for sealing your concrete driveway, the different types of sealants available, and the benefits of sealing your driveway.
How to Seal a Concrete Driveway
- Clean your driveway. Make sure to check the weather forecast to avoid rain from damaging your sealant application.
- Patch any cracks or holes.
- Choose the sealant for your driveway. It can be water-based sealers, acrylic sealers, etc.
- Apply two thin coats on your driveway. Make sure to let the first thin coat dry completely before applying the second coat.
- Let the sealer completely dry. Avoid walking or using your driveway until the sealant is completely dry. This can range from about 24-48 hours, depending on the sealant you used and the weather.
Preparation
Prior to sealing, you should start by cleaning the concrete driveway thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, or stains. Use a pressure washer or a stiff bristle brush and a cleaning solution to scrub the surface.
Check the weather forecast for incoming rain. Sealing your concrete needs fair weather so the surface of your driveway can dry off completely.
Allow the driveway to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Best results often come from patience. It may take at least 24 hours for the surface to dry, especially if you used a pressure washer to apply the sealer.
Patching any Cracks or Holes
Inspect the new concrete driveway for any cracks or holes before you apply a sealer. If you find any, patch them before applying the sealant.
Use a concrete patching compound to fill in the cracks or holes. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure proper application. Allow the patching compound to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Choose the Right Sealant
Select a high-quality, new sealer that is suitable for driveways. Make sure to read the label on the sealant container to ensure it is appropriate for outdoor use and compatible with your concrete surfaces.
It is recommended to choose a penetrating sealant rather than a film-forming sealant, as it will provide better protection and will not cause the surface to become slippery.
Applying the First Coat Using Rollers or Sprayers
Carefully read the instructions provided on the sealant container. You can choose to use either a roller or a sprayer.
Using a Roller
Start by pouring the sealant into a paint tray or a bucket for easier application. Then, use a long-handled paint roller with a medium nap to evenly apply the sealant on the entire driveway. Start at one end and work your way toward the other, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Apply the sealant in thin coats, as thick coats may not properly adhere to the surface and could cause an uneven finish.
If the driveway has a textured surface, use a paintbrush or a roller with a longer nap to ensure the sealant gets into all the nooks and crannies.
Using a Sprayer
Before starting, test the sprayer to ensure it is working properly and is set to the desired spray pattern and pressure. Pour the sealant into the sprayer’s container or reservoir. Avoid overfilling to prevent spills or leaks.
Adjust the nozzle or sprayer settings to achieve the desired spray pattern. This can be a wide fan spray or a more concentrated stream, depending on the application.
Hold the sprayer approximately 12-18 inches away from the surface you are sealing. Begin spraying in a smooth, sweeping motion, moving evenly and consistently across the surface. Apply an even coat of sealant, covering the entire area.
As you spray, slightly overlap each stroke to ensure even coverage and avoid missed spots. Keep a steady pace and maintain a consistent distance from the surface while spraying. Doing so will prevent pooling or uneven application.
Applying the Second Coat
After the first coat of driveway sealer has dried completely, you may need to apply a second coat for optimal protection.
To reseal your driveway, follow the same application process as the first coat, starting at one end and working your way towards the other.
Apply the second coat of sealant in the same thin and even manner as the first coat to ensure proper coverage and adhesion.
Pay extra attention to any areas that may have been missed or are more exposed to traffic or weather conditions.
Allow the second coat to dry fully before using or walking on the driveway. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended drying time.
Once the second coat is dry, your concrete driveway should be properly sealed and protected.
Let the Sealer Dry
Drying can take several hours or even a day, depending on the driveway sealer and weather conditions. Check the drying time on the sealant container and plan accordingly.
While drying, make sure that the driveway is off-limits and cannot be accessed by anyone. Your driveway needs to dry completely for the sealant to be effective. Placing some barricades or fences can help you avoid accidentally walking or driving in it.
Types of Sealers
When it comes to choosing the right sealer for your concrete driveway, there are various options available in the market. You need to seal your concrete with the proper sealant, or else it may not be as effective as you hope it would be.
Water-Based Sealers
Water-based sealers are a popular choice due to their ease of use and eco-friendly nature. They are ideal for homeowners looking for a simple application process and quick drying time.
Water-based sealers are available in both clear and coloured options for decorative concrete, allowing you to enhance the appearance of your new concrete driveway with ease.
Solvent-Based Sealers
Sealing your driveway using solvent-based sealers provides more durable and long-lasting protection. They penetrate deep into the concrete surface and create a strong barrier against harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and chemicals.
Solvent-based sealers are available in different finishes, such as high-gloss, semi-gloss, and matte, giving you more flexibility in choosing the desired look for your driveway.
The application process for solvent-based sealers is similar to water-based sealers, but they may require more time to dry.
Acrylic Sealers
These sealers are affordable and easy to apply. They provide a glossy finish and offer good protection against water, UV rays, and stains. Acrylic sealers are commonly used for both interior and exterior concrete surfaces.
Penetrating Sealers
Also known as silane/siloxane sealers, penetrating sealers form a water-repellent barrier on the concrete. They don’t change the appearance of the concrete but provide excellent protection against water and moisture intrusion.
Epoxy Sealers and Polyurethane Sealers
Epoxy sealers create a thick, durable, and chemical-resistant coating on the concrete surface. They are commonly used in commercial and industrial settings due to their high resistance to stains, chemicals, and heavy traffic.
Conversely, Polyurethane sealers provide a tough and durable protective layer on the concrete surface. They have excellent resistance to UV rays, abrasion, chemicals, staining, and abrasion.
Polyurethane sealers are commonly used for high foot or vehicle traffic areas and outdoor concrete surfaces.
Please be informed that both polyurethanes and epoxies typically require curing times of more than 24 hours. If you choose to use any of these sealers, it’s recommended to allow it to dry for at least 48 hours for the best possible results.
Why Should You Seal Your Concrete Driveway?
Applying sealers to the driveway surface can offer a range of benefits.
Protection Against External Elements
One of the primary reasons to seal your concrete driveway is to protect it from external elements. Applying a good sealer creates a chemical barrier, preventing stains, cracks, and other forms of damage.
The sealant acts as a barrier on your concrete driveway, preventing water, dirt, oil, and grease from penetrating the concrete surface.
Increase Concrete Lifespan
Applying concrete sealer also prolongs the lifespan of the new concrete. By sealing the surface, you are effectively preventing premature deterioration caused by factors like freeze-thaw cycles, UV radiation, and chemical exposure.
The sealer reduces the risk of cracks, spalling, and other forms of damage, ensuring that your driveway stays intact for years to come.
Enhanced Appearance
Resealing your concrete driveway also enhances its appearance, particularly if it’s decorative concrete. A quality sealer can bring out the true colour and texture of your concrete, giving it a fresh and vibrant look.
With the wide range of sealant options available, you can choose a clear sealer to maintain the natural look of your concrete or opt for a coloured sealer to add a decorative touch to your driveway.
Applying a sealer to your driveway also makes it easier to clean and maintain, as dirt and stains are less likely to penetrate the sealed surface.
How Stone Protection Can Help You Seal Concrete Driveways
While sealing your concrete driveway can be a do-it-yourself project, many homeowners prefer to rely on professional support.
Stone Protection can help you seal both new and existing concrete driveways, ensuring the sealing process is done well to achieve the best results. We know the proper way of revitalising your concrete, making sure your driveway looks pristine and in top condition.
A busy driveway may require more frequent sealing, so if you don’t have much time, you can contact us anytime, and we’ll make sure you’re happy with the end results.
Protect your driveway from grease and oil; contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I reseal my concrete driveway?
It is recommended to reseal your concrete driveway every 1-3 years, depending on the type of sealer used, the driveway’s exposure to weather and traffic, and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
What type of sealer should I use for my decorative concrete driveway?
For decorative concrete, such as stamped concrete driveways, acrylic sealers are commonly used to enhance the colour and provide protection. It’s important to choose a sealer specifically suited for decorative concrete.
How do I know the coverage rate of the sealer I’m using?
The coverage rate of the sealer should be provided by the manufacturer. It is usually measured in square feet per gallon and depends on the porosity of the concrete.
Can I apply a second coat of sealer on my driveway?
Yes, in some cases, two coats of sealer are recommended to ensure maximum coverage and durability, especially for newly sealed or highly porous concrete driveways.
How long does it take for the sealer to dry on a newly sealed concrete driveway?
The drying time for the sealer can vary based on the type of sealer and environmental conditions. It is advised to keep the driveway off-limits for 24-48 hours to allow the sealer to cure properly.
