Tap to Read ➤

How to Seal a Concrete Driveway

Palmira S
A concrete driveway can get damaged due to the surface erosion by vehicular traffic or water absorbed into the concrete surface,and multiple freeze-thaw cycles in winters.So, the driveway should have a sealer that enters its surface, instead of a surface sealer which is applied to the surface and does not go deep within.
Sealing a concrete driveway is an easy and inexpensive process. Sealing will make it durable and protect it for years to come from the harsh weather.
A surface sealer is damaged easily if used constantly. Every time a car goes over it or a ball bounces on it, some amount of the sealer gets eroded. Some surface sealers are dangerous, as they tend to make the driveway slick when it rains.
In contrast, a siloxane sealer or water repellents penetrates below the concrete surface, thereby protecting the surface and making it resistant and tough. It also helps in waterproofing.

Sealing a Concrete Driveway

▶ The materials you will require are: Sprayer, brush, roller, broom, pressure washer, siloxane sealer, and a soapy sponge or rag.

▶ Before you start with the actual procedure, measure the area you want to cover. Then, apply siloxane water at a rate of 100 square feet per gallon.
▶ Make sure that the concrete is clean. If there is loose debris or dirt, then dust it off. Use a pressure washer to clean the stains of grease or oil, if any. After you have completed the cleaning, let it dry for 24 hours prior to the application.
▶ The next step is to apply the penetrating siloxane sealer with a brush, pump, or a roller. You can also use a garden sprayer to apply the material in such a way, that most of the white color is visible. Avoid applying the solution in excess. Spread the excess material in an even manner.
▶ If there is excess spray present anywhere on the wood, metal, or glass, wipe it off with a soapy sponge or a rag.

▶ Protect the surface from the rainwater for at least 24 hours after sealing it.

Causes of Deterioration

Penetrating water causes most of the damage to a concrete driveway. Expansion of water due to freezing is one of the main reasons. Water expands to 9% in volume after it freezes, which can at times, physically break the bonds and cause flaking, pitting, and cracking of the surface. Thus, sealing helps to prevent these conditions.
The use of sodium chloride or rock salt for de-icing is another reason for the damage to concrete. Salt is not that effective at low temperature. In fact, it can even damage concrete.
The procedure mentioned here is the easiest of all. Also, the materials required in this procedure are readily available.