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Unlike paint, concrete stain won’t peel off. Instead, the color absorbs into the surface of this porous building material. While it doesn’t peel, the stain only penetrates the top layer of concrete, and as the top of the concrete eventually wears away, so will the stain. However, this process is much slower than paint peeling, especially on low-traffic surfaces.

You should sand concrete before painting, as it helps remove any irregularities and pieces that stick out from the surface. This not only helps the paint look better but it prevents any unwanted water absorption.

Sealing resurfaced concrete is not an absolute necessity. However, it is recommended, and in most cases, a high-quality concrete sealer can protect the surface from stains as well as water penetration, extending the life of the resurfacing material. Some sealers are formulated to protect pigments from fading due to UV exposure. Sealer tends to enhance the colors in decorative resurfacing applications, making them more vibrant and richer compared to the duller, more faded appearance of concrete colors without sealer.

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.