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If your concrete stains are green in color, it indicates the presence of mold or algae—which you should address right away. If left unattended, mold will spread to other areas throughout the home. However, be careful not to disturb mold on indoor concrete surfaces and work with a local mold remediation specialist for specialized care. Once free from mold and algae, seal your concrete to eliminate pores and gaps.

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.

Sealing the concrete before tiling is recommended to help it stand up against any water that may seep through the tiles or grout. After thoroughly cleaning the concrete with TSP, priming with a concrete primer will seal the concrete. Check the label on the primer to make sure it is also a sealant and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.

Concrete can take years to fully settle, but interior concrete floors are mostly settled after a year. Shifting and settling can occur throughout your home’s life, but most major settling happens the first few years after the concrete is poured. It’s not uncommon for minor cracks to appear in concrete floors over time—check with a concrete pro to ensure new cracks don’t indicate a structural issue in your home.