HOW TO SEAL A CONCRETE FLOOR: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

If you want your concrete floor to last for many years into the future, then you need to think about sealing the concrete. Not only is this a pretty simple and straightforward thing to do, but it brings with it a range of benefits.

From stopping mould and bacteria to offering a layer of protection from chipping and cracking, you can extend the lifespan of your concrete floor while also giving it a sleek and more appealing finish.

This month at EasyMix Concrete, we’ve put together a quick guide to help you learn how to seal a concrete floor step by step, including how to prepare your floor for sealing – which is where we’ll start…

Prepare your concrete surface for sealing

To deliver the best finish, you need to begin by preparing your concrete floor. The following steps will help to make the process both easy and successful if you have an existing floor that hasn’t previously been sealed:

1. First, clear the floor of any items and objects
2. Next, remove the skirting boards around the floor and any debris
3. Remove any grease from your floor with a degreaser
4. Get rid of any oily patches using a wire brush
5. Give the floor a final clean with a wet mop
6. Once dry, fill in any cracks using a concrete filler

Remove any existing sealant

If you have a concrete floor that has previously been sealed, you’ll need to remove the current layer with a stripping chemical so that you can prepare the concrete beneath for resealing. Always use caution and protective clothing when using these chemicals.

If you’re unsure whether your concrete floor is currently sealed, you can test this by pouring a little bit of water onto it. If the liquid beads, your floor is sealed; if it simply soaks into the concrete, you probably don’t have any sealant in place.

Carefully apply the concrete sealer for maximum protection

You should only ever apply a sealant to a concrete floor that has fully dried and cured. You can test whether your concrete is suitable for sealing by applying it in a small, inconspicuous area first before carrying out the following steps:

1. Ensure the room is well ventilated
2. Apply your chosen concrete floor sealer using a brush or rollers according to the instructions
3. Let the first coat dry before applying a second layer
4. Use thin coats, in different directions, to avoid the sealant pooling
5. Avoid any foot traffic or moisture on the surface while you let it fully dry

Remember, the more care you take, the better the results will be — it also makes it easier to apply a second layer if you get the first layer right.

Maintain the sealed concrete floor for longevity

Finally, a quick word on maintenance and upkeep. While there shouldn’t be a lot for you to do once it’s sealed, you will want to ensure that any spills and stains are cleared up immediately to avoid them having a long-term impact on how it looks and how well it stands up to further spills in the future.

Depending on the amount of wear and tear your concrete floor experiences, you may need to reapply the sealer again in 2-5 years to keep up the continual protection.

A good concrete sealant, patiently applied, is only one part of the equation if you want a fantastic concrete floor. The other half of the equation is getting a quality concrete mix for your flooring, and that’s where we come in at EasyMix Concrete. We provide high-quality concrete mixes for floors whether it’s for your home or your business, delivering a cost-effective and flexible service in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Northamptonshire.

Call and order concrete for your flooring today and we’ll be happy to help.