What is Sealed Concrete?
Sealed concrete is a concrete surface that has been treated with a protective barrier, coating or penetrating sealer to protect it from environmental and physical damage. This barrier, often created using a concrete sealer, stops moisture, dirt, chemicals and other substances from entering the porous concrete. Unlike untreated concrete which absorbs water and other materials, sealed concrete is a durable, low maintenance surface that can withstand daily wear and tear, extreme weather and heavy use. Depending on the type of sealer used the protective film can sit on the surface or penetrate into the pores giving different levels of protection and finish.
The purpose of sealing concrete is to increase its life, durability, and performance. Concrete is strong and versatile but is porous and absorbs liquids which can lead to staining, cracking or surface deterioration over time. When exposed to moisture unsealed concrete can suffer from freeze thaw cycles in colder climates causing cracks and structural damage. By applying a sealer you create a water barrier that reduces the chance of these issues and the concrete will retain its strength and integrity for years to come.
In addition to moisture protection, sealing concrete prevents stains and abrasion. Everyday spills like oil, grease and chemicals can leave unsightly marks on unsealed concrete that are hard to remove if not impossible. Heavy foot or vehicle traffic can cause surface wear and tear and premature aging of the concrete. A sealer adds a layer of protection that prevents these issues and makes the surface easier to clean and maintain. Some sealers are also designed to resist UV rays which can cause fading or discoloration especially in outdoor applications.
In addition to the protective properties, sealing concrete also serves an aesthetic purpose. Sealers can enhance the natural color and texture of the concrete and give it a deeper more polished look. They come in various finishes like matte, satin or high gloss so you can customize the look of your concrete to your design. Decorative applications like stamped or stained concrete benefit from sealing as it locks in the colors and patterns and prevents them from fading or wearing away over time.
Definition and Purpose of Sealing Concrete
Sealing concrete is the process of applying a protective layer to the surface of concrete to safeguard it from various threats such as water damage, stains, abrasion, and cracks. The primary purpose of sealing concrete is to extend its lifespan, enhance its aesthetics, and reduce maintenance and repair costs. Sealing concrete creates an invisible barrier that protects the concrete from the elements and everyday wear and tear, making it an essential step in preserving the integrity and appearance of concrete surfaces.
What are the Benefits of Sealing Concrete?
Sealing concrete has many benefits that increase the performance and appearance of concrete surfaces. One of the biggest is the added layer of protection. Concrete is porous so it’s open to moisture, stains and damage from chemicals or heavy use. By applying a sealer you create a barrier that protects the concrete surface from these threats, makes it more durable. This is especially important in high traffic areas or outdoor spaces that are exposed to harsh weather, where unsealed concrete can deteriorate fast. Sealing a concrete driveway, for instance, not only enhances its appearance but also protects it from water damage and cracks, ensuring it remains in good condition over time.
Having a concrete sealing company with experience will be able to help you select the proper concrete sealer and have an even coat across your concrete.
A sealed concrete surface is also stain and chemical resistant. Everyday substances like oil, grease and household cleaners can leave permanent marks on unsealed concrete, industrial chemicals can weaken the structure. Sealed concrete prevents these substances from penetrating the surface. This makes it perfect for driveways, garages and commercial spaces where spills and exposure to harsh materials are common. The sealed surface is also easier to clean, dirt, grime and liquid spills stay on the surface and can be wiped away with minimal effort.
Besides the protective properties, sealing concrete also enhances its visual appeal. Many sealers are designed to bring out the natural color and texture of the concrete, making it look vibrant and polished. This is especially good for decorative concrete finishes like stamped or stained designs, the sealer locks in the colors and patterns so it won’t fade or wear over time. Sealers come in different finishes from matte to high gloss, so you can customize to your design preference. Whether you want a sleek modern look or a more subtle finish, sealing can change the look of your concrete surfaces.
Another advantage of sealing concrete is the smooth non-porous finish it creates. This finish not only improves the surface’s resistance to stains and damage but also reduces the accumulation of dirt and dust. In unsealed concrete the porous surface can trap particles making it hard to keep clean and tidy. Sealed concrete eliminates this problem by creating a barrier that repels dirt and dust, makes cleaning much simpler and more effective. This is especially important in indoor spaces like basements and kitchens where cleanliness is top priority.
What is Unsealed Concrete?
Unsealed concrete is concrete that hasn’t been sealed. So the surface is porous and unprotected and will absorb liquids, dirt and other substances. Unlike sealed concrete which has a barrier to stop moisture, stains and abrasions, unsealed concrete is more prone to absorbing everything. This lack of protection will cause structural and aesthetic problems especially in areas where the concrete is exposed to heavy use, spills or changing weather conditions.
One of the characteristics of unsealed concrete is its porosity. The concrete slab is absorbent by nature and when left unsealed it will absorb water, oils, chemicals and other liquids that come into contact with its surface. This absorption will cause unsightly stains that are hard to remove. For example in driveways or garages unsealed concrete will show permanent marks from oil drips or tire stains. In outdoor areas exposure to rain, snow and ice will cause moisture to penetrate and when combined with freeze-thaw cycles will cause cracking and surface degradation.
Besides staining and moisture issues unsealed concrete is more prone to physical wear and abrasion. High traffic areas whether indoors or outdoors will show wear and tear quickly as foot traffic, vehicles and heavy equipment will scratch, scuff or erode the surface. Over time this will lead to a rough and uneven texture and detract from the appearance of the concrete and potentially create tripping hazards. Sealed concrete has a protective layer that absorbs the wear and tear and prolongs its life and maintains the smooth surface.
Another characteristic of unsealed concrete is its matte unfinished look. Some people like the raw natural look of unsealed concrete for certain design styles but it lacks the vibrant colours or glossy finish that sealed concrete can provide. Decorative concrete treatments like staining or stamping often require sealing to lock in the colours and patterns so unsealed concrete is not suitable for those who want decorative finishes. Also the porosity of unsealed concrete means dirt and dust can accumulate in its pores making cleaning and maintenance more labour intensive compared to sealed surfaces.
Despite its weaknesses unsealed concrete is chosen for applications where cost is the main concern as it eliminates the cost of applying a sealer. It may also be preferred where environmental impact is a consideration as it doesn’t use chemical sealants. But these benefits must be weighed against the increased risk of damage, higher maintenance and shorter life of unsealed concrete compared to sealed concrete.
Definition and Characteristics of Unsealed Concrete
Unsealed concrete refers to concrete that has not been treated with a protective sealant. Unsealed concrete is more susceptible to damage from water, stains, and abrasion, which can lead to cracks, discoloration, and a reduced lifespan. Unsealed concrete is often characterized by a dull and porous appearance, making it more prone to staining and damage. Without a protective barrier, unsealed concrete is more vulnerable to the elements and daily wear and tear, requiring more frequent maintenance and repairs.
Sealed Concrete vs Unsealed Concrete: What’s the Difference
When choosing between sealed and unsealed concrete for your project you need to know the differences in durability, longevity and maintenance. Both types of concrete are foundation materials for many applications but their performance, upkeep and lifespan can vary greatly depending on whether or not a sealer is applied. Additionally, when considering sealed concrete vs polished concrete, it’s important to understand the differences in aesthetics, maintenance requirements, and suitable applications to make an informed decision.
Durability and Longevity
One of the biggest differences between sealed and unsealed concrete is durability and lifespan. Sealed concrete is more durable because of the barrier on the surface. This barrier acts as a shield and prevents moisture, stains and abrasions from getting to the concrete. With proper maintenance such as resealing every now and then, sealed concrete can last for many years even in high traffic or outdoor areas exposed to harsh weather. The durability of sealing makes it perfect for areas that get heavy foot or vehicle traffic such as driveways, garages and commercial floors.
Protecting your concrete investment is crucial for ensuring its longevity and efficiency. Unsealed concrete is not as durable over time. Its porous nature allows it to absorb moisture which can cause cracking especially in areas that are prone to freeze-thaw cycles. Unsealed concrete is more prone to surface wear from abrasions and stains which can degrade its appearance and structural integrity faster than sealed concrete. Without the protection of a sealer, unsealed concrete may need more frequent repairs or even replacement especially in harsh environments.
Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance is another area where sealed and unsealed concrete differ. Sealed concrete requires minimal maintenance as long as you reseal it every now and then to maintain its protective properties. However, issues with concrete sealers, such as poor preparation of concrete surfaces and excessive vapor pressure, can lead to separation of the sealer from the concrete, ultimately resulting in costly resurfacing and resealing. The resealing process renews the barrier that protects against moisture, stains and abrasions so the concrete can last longer and be easy to maintain. Between resealing, sealed concrete surfaces are easy to clean. The smooth non porous finish repels dirt, dust and liquids and can be easily swept or mopped. For areas that are prone to spills or stains like kitchens and garages, sealed concrete is ideal as it resists absorption and makes cleaning easy.
Unsealed concrete on the other hand requires more frequent and laborious maintenance. Its porous surface absorbs liquids, dirt and other contaminants and over time will discolor and build up grime. Regular cleaning is needed to prevent permanent staining which can mean scrubbing with specialized cleaners to remove embedded dirt or oil. Unsealed concrete in outdoor areas is also more prone to the elements and requires extra effort to address weather related damage such as cracks from freeze and thaw or surface erosion from rain. Over time these maintenance needs can add up and make unsealed concrete more costly and time consuming to maintain in the long run.
Benefits of Sealed Concrete Floors
- Sealed concrete floors offer several benefits, including:
- Protection from moisture and other substances
- Easy maintenance
- Aesthetically pleasing appearance
- Increased durability and longevity
- Sealed concrete flooring provides a protective barrier for cement floors, reducing the risk of damage from spills and stains
Drawbacks of Sealed Concrete
Periodic Resealing Required
- Sealed concrete typically requires periodic resealing to maintain its protective properties.
- The frequency of resealing depends on factors such as the type of concrete sealers used, the level of traffic, and the specific environmental conditions.
Limited Repair Options
- Sealed concrete may have limitations when it comes to repairing deep damage or cracks.
- If the underlying concrete slab develops cracks or experiences substantial damage, it may require more extensive repairs or even replacement.
Benefits of Unsealed Concrete
Cost-Effective and Low Maintenance
- Unsealed concrete is a cost-effective option for concrete flooring.
- Unsealed concrete requires less maintenance than sealed concrete, as it does not require periodic resealing. Additionally, sealed concrete often necessitates the use of specialized equipment for proper application and surface preparation, which can add to the overall cost and complexity.
Environmentally Friendly
- Unsealed concrete is an environmentally friendly option, as it does not require the use of chemical sealers. Protecting your concrete investment through proper sealing and finishing techniques ensures longevity and efficiency, contributing to cost savings in the long run.
- Unsealed concrete can be a sustainable option for concrete flooring.
Choosing Between Sealed and Unsealed Concrete
Assess Specific Needs and Usage of Space
- Consider the purpose and requirements of the area where the concrete will be installed.
- If the space is subject to heavy foot traffic or the potential for spills and stains, sealed concrete may be a suitable choice. For interior floors, polished concrete is often preferred due to its aesthetic appeal, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
Evaluate Desired Aesthetic Appeal and Level of Shine
- Think about the desired look and feel of the space.
- Sealed concrete offers various finish options, including matte, glossy, or decorative finishes. A polished concrete floor, on the other hand, not only enhances the aesthetic appeal with its reflective surface but also provides durability and cost-effectiveness, making it ideal for high-traffic or commercial areas.
Sealed Concrete Floor Options
Stained Concrete
- Stained concrete is a type of sealed concrete that requires a sealing coat to prevent color wear-off.
- Stained concrete has the same benefits and drawbacks as sealed concrete.
Unsealed Concrete Floor Options
Polished Concrete
- Polished concrete is a type of unsealed concrete that involves a multi-step polishing process to create a smooth, reflective surface.
- Polished concrete offers several benefits, including:
- A high-gloss appearance
- Durability and resistance to wear and tear
- Easy maintenance
Tips for Maintaining a Sealed Concrete Floor
- Regular cleaning typically involves sweeping or vacuuming to remove debris, followed by mopping with a neutral pH cleaner.
- Periodic resealing may be required to maintain the protective properties of the sealer. Using a high-quality concrete sealer can enhance the longevity of the floor, especially in high foot traffic areas, and help recognize when resealing is necessary to prevent wear and scratching.
Tips for Maintaining Unsealed Concrete
While sealing concrete is the recommended approach, there are still ways to maintain unsealed concrete to extend its lifespan and appearance. Here are some tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Regularly sweep or blow leaves and debris off the concrete surface to prevent dirt and stains from accumulating.
- Neutral pH Cleaners: Use neutral pH cleaners to clean the concrete surface, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage the concrete.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as acid or alkaline-based cleaners, which can damage the concrete and strip away its natural oils.
- Seal Cracks: Seal any cracks or joints in the concrete to prevent water and debris from entering and causing further damage.
- Monitor Moisture: Monitor the moisture levels around the concrete, ensuring that it is not exposed to excessive water or humidity, which can lead to damage and staining.
- Consider Sealing: Consider sealing the concrete to provide an extra layer of protection and extend its lifespan.
By following these tips, you can help maintain the appearance and integrity of unsealed concrete, although it is still recommended to seal the concrete for optimal protection and longevity.
