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Yes, you can seal old or existing concrete, but proper preparation is crucial. The concrete surface must be clean, dry, and free of any incompatible old sealant. To check if an old sealer is present, drip a few drops of water onto the surface; if the water is absorbed in under five minutes, it's ready to be resealed. If you plan to use the same type of sealer that was previously applied, you may not need to remove the old layer. However, if you are using a different type of sealer, the old one must be completely removed. Before applying the new sealer, thoroughly clean the concrete and repair or fill any cracks to ensure a smooth, well-prepared surface.

Unlike staining concrete, painting concrete often results in chips and peeling over time. You can expect numerous touchups over the years if the concrete is in a high-traffic area. Since concrete paints are opaque, you may also find it more difficult to get the exact color results you want. Lastly, painting concrete can make it much more slippery unless you mix in an additive for traction.

You can’t paint a foundation like you would the walls in your home; there are a few extra important steps to take. Instead of just busting out the paint, you should clean the surface and fix any impurities before grabbing the brush. Using a paint sprayer to apply sealant and primer will ensure you have the perfect canvas to apply your chosen paint color.

The cost to seal concrete is around $1,500 on average, but you could spend anywhere from $1,000 to $7,000, depending on the type of sealer used and the size of the space. You may want to seal concrete that receives a large amount of foot traffic or heavy wear. While you can seal concrete yourself with materials from a home improvement store, you must ensure the surface is clean and ready to accept the sealer. Hiring a professional is often recommended to ensure good, even coverage that provides adequate protection.