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How to Clean a Concrete Floor

Sealer

Whether you are considering installing concrete flooring or already have it installed, you want to be sure that you properly seal the floor in order to sustain its beauty. Your beautiful concrete floors are susceptible to damage, if you do not seal it properly and it is treaded upon or has furniture dragged across it and so on. This may not be so vital for a garage floor, however if you have gone to all the expense of having concrete installed inside your home then it is essential that it be sealed for protection.

A concrete floor sealer will ensure that any substance spills of chemicals or liquids are not absorbed. Daily life occurrences can cause your floors to chip and crack more easily than you may consider. You can prevent this from occurring by following these steps.

To achieve the best results you should have your concrete flooring sealed soon after installation. They have no protection from dirt or spills, if you do not seal them promptly. Once a concrete floor absorbs stains, it is very difficult to correct the problem. Make sure that the floor is level and displays no cracks before you seal your concrete flooring. You should repair any chips or cracks using a repair compound. Doing so will also help eliminate any dampness from setting in, which can become a major dilemma in your basement.

The concrete must be level and include no hollows, chips or cracks, as you should fill then with a repair compound. Repairing cracks allows you to prevent the absorption of dampness that can cause problems as well as give your floors a much better appearance. When you use a repair compound, be sure to give it plenty of time to dry completely before applying a sealer.

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While shopping for a concrete sealer, you will notice that they are available in two types, penetrants and film formers. Siloxanes, silanes, and silicates are penetrating sealers; they are designed to seal exterior concrete, which is subject to corrosion and frost. You will use film-forming sealers for your interior concrete flooring. These concrete sealers are designed to form a film over the flooring that makes it shiny. Nevertheless, it is not as simple as browsing through your local hardware store and requesting a film-forming concrete sealer. There are three types from which you can choose.

– Acrylic Sealers

These sealers are either solvent or water based. They are cheap and easy to use. Generally, you apply these to exterior flooring since they can protect against UV light and water exposure. Acrylic sealers are not hard wearing since they are thinner and require more frequent re-application, this can be a major disadvantage.

– Epoxy Sealers

These sealers are ideal for concrete flooring since they are hard wearing and last a long time. You should consider the appearance you wish to achieve before making a purchase since they are available in clear and tinted finishes.

– Polyurethane Sealers

These sealers are either solvent or water based. They are thicker than acrylic sealers and are able to withstand abrasions and chemicals. However, it they are exposed to water a bubbling and foaming may occur. Remember, you need to allow the polyurethane to dry and cure for several days for the best results.

After repairing any chips or cracks in the concrete, you can then apply your sealer. Keep in mind that epoxy sealers are the best type of sealer to use for your concrete flooring. Be sure that you purchase enough sealer by measuring the size of your room before you begin applying your concrete sealer.