The Great Big World of ConcreteThe Great Big World of Concrete


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The Great Big World of Concrete

Think about how many things in the built environment are made from concrete. Even just in your home, you may have a concrete foundation or concrete basement walls. Maybe you have a concrete pad or patio out back, and you probably have a concrete sidewalk leading to and past your home. Then, there's your greater community. There are likely concrete barriers to restrict where people park. Large, concrete buildings serve as schools, court buildings, and other community structures. The list goes on, but the point is, concrete contractors create all sorts of different structures. We're excited to write articles about them here.

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Sealing Your Concrete Floors: The Basics For Success

Concrete floors can be vulnerable to all sorts of different problems, including staining, dirt, chipping, and more. When you want to get the longest possible lifespan out of your concrete floors, you need to apply a coating or a sealant. Here's a look at some of the things that you should know to ensure that you get the best possible results from your concrete coating application.

Start With Clean Concrete 

The first thing that you need to do is make sure that the concrete is clean. Any dirt, stains, or debris that you leave behind can interfere with the bonding of the sealant, which may leave you with cracks and other flaws in the coating. Pressure washing or brush-washing with a quality detergent will ensure that your concrete surface is clean and prepared for sealing.

Be Selective About Your Sealant

The next thing that you need to consider is the choice of sealant that you use. You may be tempted to buy the cheapest sealant you can find, but this could short-change you in the long run. Instead, consider what you're trying to protect the floor against. Are you looking for stain resistance, blocking automotive fluid absorption, or trying to minimize damage to the concrete from foot traffic? These factors will determine the right type of sealant for your situation. 

Have A Professional Apply The Sealant

It's tempting to seal the concrete yourself in an effort to cut costs. However, when you do the job on your own, you risk an uneven application because you don't have the same training and expertise as a professional. Working with a professional to apply the sealant can help ensure that you get an even, consistent layer that forms a solid bond and protective barrier.

Ensure Sufficient Ventilation

No matter what type of sealant you choose for your concrete floors, you're going to have to deal with some odor when you apply it. Make sure that you have sufficient ventilation in the area, even if it's just open windows and exhaust fans. That way, you won't have to worry about excess fumes. That's another benefit of professional installation, though. They will have the necessary equipment to ensure adequate ventilation not only for fume management but also to help speed up drying and curing.

These are some of the most important things to consider when you want to seal a concrete floor in your home. 

To learn more, contact a company like NW Pressure Pros.