Concrete Surface Prep 101: The Key to a Long-Lasting Sealer Application
The four Critical Phases of Concrete Surface Prep
When putting together a new coating project, much of the attention naturally focuses on the type of coating to be applied or the sealing product to be used. While those decisions are important, all good sealing processes begin with concrete surface prep. Concrete surface preparation is key to maximizing the potential of any project, ensuring that the product fully adheres to the substrate and remains durable in the face of most environmental hazards. Read on to learn why concrete surface prep is a fundamental part of professional coating projects and how the surface is readied to achieve optimal results.
Phase 1: Concrete Curing – Curing Cycle of Concrete:
The concrete curing process is a vital phase that directly impacts the strength, durability, and overall performance of a concrete surface. A standard concrete pour take 28 days to completely cure. During this process you do not want to apply any sealers because the concrete needs this time to properly hydrate and gain strength. Sealers can block the necessary moisture exchange, interfering with the chemical reactions essential for curing. This can result in a weaker, less durable surface that may not perform as intended over time.
Phase 2: Deep Cleaning – The Foundation for Adhesion
Cleaning the surface of all dirt and contaminants must be a priority before applying any sealer. The methods to clean the surface will differ depending on the makeup of the surface material, but a clean substrate is key for a successful job.
Skipping surface prep entirely compromises any sealing attempts you make going forward, and rushing through it inevitably leads to mistakes. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Jobsite failure is nearly guaranteed when proper prep is overlooked.
Phase 3: Structural Repair and Profiling – Creating the Ideal Canvas
After the surface has been cleaned, you can then move on to repairing any low spots or loose pavers or tiles to prevent future deterioration. Creating a proper surface profile is necessary to create the right texture to maximize the sealer’s mechanical bond, particularly on new or smooth concrete. This gives the coating a better surface to attach to, ensuring that it adheres perfectly. Temperature also plays a role in how the sealer is absorbed. The optimal surface temperature range is between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Taking these steps provides the best conditions for a seamless concrete finish.
Phase 4: Achieving Complete Dryness – Preventing Premature Failure
The dangers of rushing through a sealing project should remain at the front of one’s mind even after the surface is prepared. If the surface isn’t totally dry before the sealer is applied, this can jeopardize the integrity appearance. It’s best to wait 1 to 3 days before application to ensure that the surface has ample time to dry. The time of day is also a major factor in application sealer. The slower a sealer or coating takes to dry enhances the durability and longevity of the product. When a product flash dries this can reduce its performance by 60%.
Be sure to keep track of the upcoming weather forecast as well; a high level of humidity means there is excess moisture in the air, which can interfere with the sealer’s ability to penetrate the material.
Partnering with Deco Products – The Applicator’s Advantage
Deco Products provides the perfect materials for applicators to deliver efficient, cost-effective, and visually pleasing results to their customers. We are proud to manufacture all of our products in the USA from our facility in Denver, Colorado. Our waterproof sealants and decorative sealers are made with an environmentally-conscious process that doesn’t sacrifice high-quality performance in any way. Those interested in concrete sealers also won’t have to worry about their effect on the look of the substrate either. Each product features a premium matte finish that suits a number of uses rather than a glossy appearance.
Deco also provides resources to help applicators across the country get the most out of our products. We offer free training to all of our partners to help them complete their work smoothly while saving time and money.
Ensuring Longevity and Superior Results
Concrete surface prep is the only reliable way to build a strong sealer bond. Ignoring this part of the process or speeding through it lessens the quality of the project and will likely require future reapplications to repair the damage. To confirm full adhesion between the sealer and the surface, applicators must make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions on how much sealer should be applied and the temperature ranges to extend the project’s lifespan. If you have any other questions about Deco Products, feel free to contact us today.
