Stamped concrete can be a beautiful but less expensive alternative to natural stone or pavers for your patio, driveway or walkway needs. However, it is necessary to perform a certain amount of maintenance to keep it looking its best throughout its lifetime. This maintenance includes using Concrete Sealer in Plano TX. Although some people skip this step when they get their stamped concrete installed, there are a number of potential benefits to this process.
Helps Maintain Appearance
Using Stamped Concrete Sealer in Plano TX helps to maintain the beautiful appearance of the concrete and give it a glossy sheen. Without applying a sealer, the UV from the sun could cause the colors to fade. The sealer will also help limit the penetration of any type of stain. Many different substances, including salt, dirt, pet urine, chemicals, chlorine, and fertilizer can potentially cause stains to concrete if it isn’t properly sealed on a regular basis. When stamped concrete starts to fade or look worn, it’s often possible to get it looking close to new by cleaning it and resealing it. This may be even more likely if you use a tinted sealer to add more color.
Protects Against Damage
A concrete sealer will also help limit any potential damage from variations in the weather. The typical freeze and thaw cycles that are part of living in a colder climate can cause small cracks, which can then result in flaking of the concrete. If a crack occurs, water can get into this crack and then freeze, which causes the crack to expand and increases the damage. Sealing helps to reduce the potential for the first step in the process — small cracks due to the weather.
Frequency
The higher the traffic in the area with the stamped concrete, the more often it will need to be sealed to maintain its good looks and usefulness. It should first be sealed after the new concrete has had a chance to cure, or about 28 days after it is installed. Then, it should be reapplied every few years.
To find out more about stamped concrete sealing contact We Do Concrete Coatings Plano.