How Often Should You Reseal Your Concrete Surfaces? | Concrete Conversions in Raleigh, NC

Concrete surfaces—whether driveways, patios, or indoor flooring—require maintenance to stay in peak condition and resist damage. One essential aspect of concrete care is periodic resealing. However, knowing when to reseal can be challenging, as it depends on factors like the type of sealer, environmental conditions, and how the surface is used. Concrete Conversions in Raleigh, NC, provides insights into how often you should reseal your concrete and the factors that influence this schedule.

1. Type of Sealer Used
The lifespan of your sealer greatly affects how frequently you’ll need to reseal.

• Acrylic Sealers: Typically last 1-3 years, making them ideal for decorative concrete surfaces where reapplication is straightforward.
• Penetrating Sealers: These, such as silane or siloxane, can protect for up to 5-10 years by forming a deep chemical barrier without altering the surface appearance.
• Epoxy and Polyurethane Sealers: Known for their durability, these can last 5-10 years or longer, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or surfaces exposed to chemicals, such as garage floors.

2. Environmental Factors
Where your concrete is located plays a role in how often it needs resealing.

• Exposure to Sunlight: UV rays can degrade certain sealers over time, especially acrylic-based ones, so outdoor surfaces exposed to direct sunlight may need more frequent resealing.
• Moisture and Weather: Concrete that’s exposed to moisture, like rain or snow, is more susceptible to wear. Resealing more frequently helps protect against water damage, especially in climates with freeze-thaw cycles.
• Chemicals and Deicing Salts: Driveways and walkways exposed to deicing salts or harsh chemicals may require frequent resealing, as these substances can erode the sealer and damage the concrete.

3. Traffic and Usage
Concrete surfaces used more frequently will need resealing sooner.

• High-Traffic Areas: Driveways, commercial floors, and walkways that experience high traffic should be resealed every 1-3 years to maintain protection.
• Low-Traffic Areas: Patios or decorative concrete with lower use may only need resealing every 3-5 years.

4. Signs That Your Concrete Needs Resealing
Watch for these signs to know when it’s time for a reseal:

• Water No Longer Beads: If water soaks into the concrete rather than beading, the surface likely needs resealing.
• Fading or Dull Appearance: A loss of shine or faded color can indicate that the sealer is wearing away.
• Visible Stains or Damage: Stains, cracks, or other damage may suggest the sealer’s protective layer is compromised.

5. How to Properly Reseal Concrete
For effective resealing, follow these steps:

• Clean the Surface: Ensure the concrete is clean and free of dirt, stains, or old sealer residue to help the new sealer adhere.
• Apply the Sealer Evenly: Use a roller or sprayer to apply the sealer evenly. Follow manufacturer instructions for the best results.
• Avoid Over-Application: Too much sealer can lead to a sticky or uneven finish; apply thin, even coats, allowing proper drying time.

Protect Your Concrete with Professional Sealing Services in Raleigh, NC
Resealing your concrete surfaces at the right intervals is essential for their appearance and longevity. Whether you need advice on the best sealer for your space or professional resealing, Concrete Conversions can help. Contact Brandon or Christy to learn more about our concrete sealing services and how we can keep your surfaces looking their best.

Call us at (919) 273-4233 or email [email protected] to get started!