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When you want to seal concrete for weather protection and waterproofing, it’s important to time your application correctly. A second or third coat needs to be painted on at the right time or the coating might not adhere correctly or be effective. This is due to the need for concrete coatings to dry and cure.

Drying

ConcreteConcrete sealers include the active sealing ingredient suspended in some type of solvent to allow them to be painted onto the surface of your sidewalk, foundation, or other concrete structure. Solvents may include acetone or xylene but could also be as simple as water. Once the sealer is applied, the solvent evaporates to leave the final seal coat behind. One-part sealers rely on drying to establish a coating and can be dissolved again by the right solvent.

Curing

Two-part coatings, on the other hand, undergo a chemical reaction as they are setting in place. This is why the parts must be stored separately and only mixed when it’s time to apply them; otherwise, the chemical reaction would happen prematurely. This reaction solidifies and hardens the coating, often at the same time it is drying. The sealer goes through several stages, including:

  • Tacky Phase: This is when the sealer is beginning to set and gets sticky.

  • Tack-Free Phase: The coating is no longer sticky but still soft.

  • Fully Cured Phase: This is when the chemical reaction has completely finished.

In these cases, it’s important to apply a second coat of concrete sealer during the tack-free phase. This is when as much solvent as possible has evaporated from the coating but is still chemically reactive and will adhere correctly to a new layer.

 

When you schedule professional concrete pouring and finishing, Bellis Concrete Construction in Cookeville, TN, will ensure your finished product is correctly treated, taking into account curing and drying times. They are proud to provide sturdy, high-quality work throughout Putnam County, whether you need them for simple excavation services or complex concrete projects. To schedule service, call (931) 528-6240 or visit them online.

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