Did you know that even the ancient Romans used concrete in their construction? They valued it for its strength and for its ability to be molded into different forms. They formed concrete from volcanic ash and lime, which were a bit different from the materials used today, but the substance was very similar and used for similar purposes. Today, concrete contractors carry on the ancient Roman tradition, making everything from patios to counter tops from concrete. These creations last for years and require little maintenance. We think concrete is amazing, and we hope you'll share that opinion after reading the articles provided here.
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3 Reasons Concrete Sealing Is A Good Idea
Edwin Robertson
You probably have a lot of concrete flatwork around your property. You might have a concrete driveway, patio, walkway, pool deck, flooring, or countertops. Your concrete may or may not be sealed, but you may want to consider it. It usually isn't required to seal concrete, especially outdoor concrete, but you may still want to. Here's why concrete sealing is desirable.
1. Sealing Can Prevent Algae
If you have a problem with algae growing on your patio, driveway, or walkway due to all the shade on your property, you probably get tired of having to clean the concrete frequently just to keep it attractive. A solution to this problem is to use a concrete sealing product that discourages algae growth.
Algae usually love concrete since they can burrow into the pits and grooves of concrete's porous surface. When you have the sealer applied, the pits are sealed so algae can't get inside. It may sometimes form on the surface, but since it can't get deep into the concrete, surface algae are easy to clean off.
2. Sealing Keeps Surfaces More Sanitary
Sealing is important for concrete you have indoors on your floor or countertops. Just like sealing keeps out algae, it also keeps out dirt, food spills, and bacteria. This reduces the risk of staining and it also keeps the surface of your countertops more sanitary.
One benefit of concrete countertops is that they can be made in one piece so there are no seams to catch crumbs and bacteria. That benefit is diminished if you don't seal the concrete to close the pores. Plus, sealing can make the countertops glossy and more attractive.
3. Sealing Protects Concrete
If your driveway or patio is in the full sun all day, the UV rays can cause damage to the concrete over time. Plus, chemicals and oil that drip from your car can cause concrete damage. When the concrete isn't sealed, water soaks into the concrete. It eventually dries out and isn't a problem except during the winter when the water freezes and exerts pressure on the concrete, which could lead to cracking.
Concrete sealing protects the concrete while giving it a matte or glossy surface that's more attractive than plain concrete. Your driveway may last longer without the need for repairs when it's sealed. Plus, sealed concrete is easier to clean and maintain. Just keep in mind that concrete sealing doesn't last forever. The sealer wears down eventually and needs to be replaced. You may need to have concrete sealing done every few years to keep your concrete looking its best.
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