How To Seal Stamped Concrete

If you have any experience at all with how to seal stamped concrete, then you already know that this job can require a decent amount of preparation and knowledge before you begin.

However, with some knowledge as well as the right tools and correct type of concrete sealer, you can learn how to seal stamped concrete floors and walls so that they will last for many years to come. See our top pick stamped concrete sealants here.

Why Seal Stamped Concrete?

Even though it’s rock-solid, stamped concrete is not impervious to moisture and U.V. damage. Over time, the thin polymer protective coating on the exterior of the concrete breaks down.

Foot traffic can wear the coating down over time, and U.V. rays break it down as well.

Without the protective layer, intact moisture can seep into the pores of the concrete and weaken it from within.

Freeze and thaw cycles between winter and summer seasons can multiply the effects of this issue dramatically.

Cracks will get larger, spawling and divots will start to appear on the stamped concrete surface giving it a pocked mark appearance.

The good news is all of this is preventable with a little bit of stamped concrete TLC!

There are numerous tools that you can purchase in order to complete this task, but there are a few basic supplies that are essential, regardless of the type of tool that you choose. These supplies will ensure your success and save you money in the long run.

How To Seal Stamped Concrete Floors

The most important supply that you will need is a heavy duty floor sealnt for stamped concrete. You may already have the floor coating on your concrete floors or walls, but it is wise to invest in a package that will allow you to use just one coat of stain or paint to accentuate the beauty of your home and provide an extra layer of protection.

See our top pick stamped concrete floor sealants here.

Driveways are not only a place where you park your car, they are also used as a place where people walk to the door, a place where children play and even a place where pets visit. Regardless of the purpose, any driveways need to be protected from weather damage and stains, and with a heavy-duty floor coating, you can rest easy knowing your floors will be able to withstand anything that may come across them.

A key factor to consider when learning how to seal stamped concrete driveways is how to control the angle of the stamped concrete. Most DIY concrete driveway sealers will recommend that you build the walls and driveways at a 90-degree angle to the front and back. This allows the water to drain properly, as well as keep the elements from causing damage. In addition, the angle provides a smoother finish, which allows you to enjoy the seamless look that the poured concrete has to offer. You can determine how to build your walls at a certain angle by consulting a DIY concrete guide or searching for helpful pictures on the internet.

Sealing Stamped Concrete CounterTops

Once you have your stamped countertops clean and ready, you need to learn how to seal them with one of these top-rated stone sealants here.

One of the most effective ways to seal stamped concrete is to use a pressurized air dryer. The blast of air will seal the edges and corners of the stamped concrete, as well as any other parts that aren’t being covered up by a mold or other finishing. Using an air dryer will ensure that the concrete is sealed completely, preventing any moisture from seeping into it. To enhance the seal, it’s recommended that you use polyurethane or an equivalent sealer as opposed to applying a silicone sealer. By doing this, you’ll avoid having to touch up any spots where the sealer washes off.

How To Seal Stamped Concrete Driveways

Before sealing or re-sealing a stamped concrete driveway, you must first make sure the ground is completely clean. If you don’t own a pressure washer, now would be a good time to buy, rent or borrow one from a friend or family member.

When it comes to installing a decorative concrete driveway, you can either employ a contractor or do it yourself. While the actual installation of the stamped concrete driveway can be a real chore that is best suited for a professional, sealing the driveway is not as difficult and can be done in a DIY manner by most homeowners.

The entire stamped concrete driveway surface must be washed to remove any twigs, leaves, dirt and sand from the little nooks and crannies in the concrete.

PRO TIP: Pressure wash edges first so any dirt that gets on concrete will be blasted off when the main area is washed.

And don’t forget to check the weather! Stamped concrete driveway sealants require warmer temps to dry properly, and rainy days do not bode weather with these types of projects so make sure the skies will be clear!

Now, cover the entire surface with one of the stamped concrete driveway sealers listed here.

The good thing about stamped concrete is that you don’t have the grout to contend with. Grout is notorious for breaking down, cracking and crumbling as it is the weakest point in any stone or paver application.

With stamped concrete there is no grout separating pavers from one another, it is one large continuous slab of concrete with a stamped pattern design.

This makes it much easier to clean and much easier to seal when the time comes. Don’t be bashful! Sealing stamped concrete is something almost any homeowner with a knack for DIY projects can tackle in a weekend!