Get matched with top epoxy flooring pros in Tracy, MN

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.

Flooring professionals can typically apply epoxy within one or two days, depending on how much preparation or repair the old floor needs before application. However, you’ll need to wait after the application is complete to use the flooring. While you can walk on the epoxy flooring before it fully cures, it can take up to 72 hours for the epoxy floor to fully dry and be ready for full use.

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.

If it's well maintained, a polished concrete floor can add value to your home. Concrete is a low-maintenance and durable material that can appeal to homebuyers, especially if they prefer industrial and modern designs. Naturally, higher quality floors will add more value.