Sealing New Concrete Driveway: (7 Step Easy Guide!)
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You have spent a fair amount so it is only natural that you are concerned about protecting it. Is sealing new concrete driveway helpful or just a waste of money?
In this comprehensive guide, I explain the importance of sealing new concrete driveway, benefits of the two types of sealers and why you should use both.
Then I walk you through the step-by-step process of sealing new concrete driveway, providing you with all the information and tips you need to ensure long-lasting durability and a beautiful finish.
Sealing New Concrete Driveway – A Quick Summary
- STEP 1: Ensure that the new concrete has fully cured (28 days).
- STEP 2: Thoroughly clean the driveway to remove accumulated dust & debris.
- STEP 3: Let the concrete dry for 24 hours (moisture content should be less than 6%).
- STEP 4: Apply 1-2 coats of Penetrating Sealer using a roller or spray.
- STEP 5: Wait overnight so that the Penetrating Sealer is completely absorbed.
- STEP 6: Apply 1-2 coats of Topical Sealer of choice using a roller or spray.
- STEP 7: Let the Topical Sealer dry & cure completely as per instructions.
The Importance of Sealing New Concrete Driveway
Sealing new concrete driveway is a critical step in driveway construction and should not be overlooked. Sealing provides essential protection and offers several benefits that contribute to the longevity and aesthetics.
Here is how sealing your new concrete driveway is helpful:
Prevents Water Damage
Concrete is porous, meaning it can absorb water. Moisture penetration damages concrete and results in several problems, including cracking, spalling, and the growth of mold and mildew.
By sealing your new concrete driveway, you create a barrier that prevents water from seeping into the concrete, protecting it from potential damage.
Enhances Durability
Sealing a new concrete driveway increases its durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Topical sealer strengthens the surface, making it less susceptible to cracking, chipping, and erosion caused by heavy traffic, vehicle fluids, and environmental factors.
A properly sealed driveway can withstand the test of time and maintain its structural integrity.
Preserves Appearance
Over time, exposure to the elements can cause discoloration and fading of the concrete surface.
Sealing your new concrete driveway helps preserve its original color, keeping it vibrant and visually appealing.
Moreover, certain sealers can further enhance the natural beauty of the concrete, providing a polished and finished look.
Protects Against Stains & Chemicals
Spills from oil, grease, or other substances can leave unsightly stains on your driveway. Sealing creates a barrier that prevents these stains from penetrating the concrete, making it easier to clean and maintain.
Sealers act as a shield against the damaging effects of chemicals, such as deicing agents used during winter.
UV Protection
Continuous exposure to sunlight can cause the concrete surface to fade and weaken over time.
Sealing your new concrete driveway with a UV-resistant sealer helps protect it from the harmful effects of UV rays, maintaining its color and structural integrity.
Benefits of Penetrative Sealer for Sealing New Concrete Driveway
For protecting your new concrete driveway, a penetrative sealer is an excellent and necessary choice. Here are two key benefits:
Long-term Protection
Penetrative sealers go deep into the concrete, filling up the concrete pores. In effect they do not leave any space for water to permeate in and damage the concrete from within.
By keeping water, chemicals, and stains at bay, you can effectively increase the concrete driveway lifespan.
Retains Natural Concrete Look
One of the advantages of penetrative sealers is that they don’t alter the natural appearance of the concrete, as they do not form any film on the surface.
Penetrative sealers are great if you like the natural and industrial look of concrete.
Benefits of Topical Sealer for Sealing New Concrete Driveways
Topical sealers, on the other hand, protect the concrete surface by forming a film.
They provide an extra layer of surface protection and can alter and enhance the look of your new concrete driveway.
Consider these benefits of Topical Sealers:
Surface Protection
Topical sealers create a protective layer on the surface of the concrete, safeguarding it against abrasion, UV rays, and stains.
This added protection helps preserve the appearance and integrity of your driveway, even in high-traffic areas.
Enhances Color and Gloss
Topical sealers have the ability to enhance the color of your concrete, making it richer and more vibrant.
Moreover, they can provide a glossy or semi-glossy finish, adding an aesthetically pleasing class to your driveway.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS
The Best Sealers for Your Concrete Driveway or Patio
A topical sealer is essential for protecting concrete surfaces from water permeation that can damage the concrete from within and compromise its lifespan.
I highly recommend Foundation Armor Concrete Sealers. Pick the one that best meets your aesthetic and application preference.
Why Use Both Types for Sealing New Concrete Driveway?
Using both penetrative and topical sealers in combination offers comprehensive protection for your new concrete driveway. Here’s why it’s beneficial:
Dual Layer of Protection
By utilizing a penetrative sealer and a topical sealer, you create a two-step approach to shield your driveway.
The penetrative sealer protects the concrete from within, while the topical sealer protects the concrete surface. This combination ensures maximum protection against different types of damage.
Synergistic Benefits
Penetrative sealers and topical sealers work together, complementing each other’s strengths.
The penetrative sealer provides long-term protection against water intrusion, while the topical sealer enhances the appearance and adds an extra layer of defense against surface damage.
Together, they create a powerful defense system for your driveway.
Step-by-Step Process for Sealing New Concrete Driveway
To properly seal your new concrete driveway, follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. Wait for Full Curing
Sealing new concrete driveway before the concrete has fully cured will do more harm than good. The sealer will interfere with the curing process. Your concrete driveway will fail to achieve its full potential strength.
2. Clean the Surface
Thoroughly clean the concrete driveway, removing any dirt, debris, or stains. You can use a pressure washer or suitable cleaning agents to achieve the best results.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCT
The Best Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner for Your Driveway & Patio
The pressure washer surface cleaner is an attachment for pressure washers that let you clean concrete driveways, patios, etc. without having to worry about abrading or gouging the concrete surface.
Here is the Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner I recommend.
EVEAGE 16.5” Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
Power Washer Surface Cleaner with 2 Extension Wand, Stainless Steel Housing Power Washer Accessories with 2 Replacement Nozzles, 4000 PSI,EP001-1
3. Allow Drying Time
Give the concrete driveway sufficient time to dry completely before applying any sealer. The moisture content of the concrete should be less than 6%.
4. Apply Penetrative Sealer
Use a roller or sprayer to apply the penetrative sealer evenly across the entire surface of the driveway. Follow the instructions on the product for the recommended application method and coverage.
5. Allow Penetration
Allow the penetrative sealer enough time to penetrate the concrete surface, usually a few hours or as specified by the manufacturer. It is best to wait overnight before applying the topical sealer.
6. Apply Topical Sealer
Once the penetrative sealer has dried, apply the topical sealer using a roller or sprayer. Ensure even coverage and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding the number of coats and drying time between coats.
Typically you need 2 coats, wet on wet, to get an uniform thick coat of topical sealer.
7. Curing Time
Finally, allow the sealer to cure completely before subjecting the driveway to foot or vehicular traffic.
Thank you very much for reading this post. I do hope you found it informative and helpful.
