Concrete driveways and other surfaces are vulnerable to moisture intrusion, and this porous material should be sealed to prevent damage. You may also consider staining the surface to transform its appearance and lend it a fresh, new look. Here are three tips to prepare the concrete for sealing and staining.

How to Prepare Your Concrete Surface for Sealing & Staining

1. Repair Any Damage

Just as you would when painting walls, you need to make sure that your driveway or other concrete surface is smooth and free of damage. Otherwise, small gaps, cracks, and other issues could contribute to long-term problems that worsen with time, including water damage. Fill in any openings with a bonding agent to preserve the integrity of the surface.

2. Clean the Surface

You can’t paint a dirty surface, as the seal or stain will not adhere to the concrete. Make sure that your driveway or other surface is free of grime and debris by using a concrete-friendly cleansing product and warm water. You can use a pressure washer to rinse away stubborn dirt or loose rocks.

3. Seal It Carefully

Sealing is an essential part of routine concrete maintenance. It will protect the surface from unsightly spots and stains caused by contaminants like oil and lawn care products. Sealing the surface helps protect it from absorbing those materials. More importantly, it will protect the concrete from cracking caused by the natural freeze-and-thaw cycles that may occur in the winter temperatures fluctuate. Read the instructions carefully, as many products require at least two coats to be effective.

4. Apply the Primer

Before painting, prime the surface to create a fresh and even tone. It will also fill in any small gaps that might still exist so that the paint applies more evenly across the entire surface. While primer may dry in just a couple of hours, you need to give it sufficient time to cure. Most packaging will instruct you about when it’s safe to paint.

5. Paint the Surface

Paving paint is appropriate to apply to concrete surfaces. Start along the edges and work your way inside. You’ll need to give the paint at least a day to dry after you apply the first coat, so make sure to check the weather. Try to paint on mild to warm days with no rain in the forecast. Plan to apply at least three coats in total.
 

Homeowners and business owners throughout North Kingsville, OH, trust in the team at Simak Trucking & Excavating for their driveway construction needs. Their company supplies the highest quality concrete mixes for different projects. They also offer land clearing, demolition, and trucking services. Visit them online for more information on their services, or call (440) 224-1992 to schedule an initial appointment.