Concrete coatings protect surfaces from wear, physical damage, abrasion, stains, spills, moisture, and weather. This protection extends the life of the concrete, adds durability, and can also improve aesthetics and safety.
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.
Epoxy and polyurethane sealers can last five to 10 years, while acrylic sealers last two to three years or more depending on the use, wear of the surface, and type of sealer you choose. Areas that see heavy traffic or extreme ice and snow may require more frequent sealing. Test your concrete every two years to gauge how it responds to absorbing water or if it fully repels it for longer than 20 seconds.
Polished concrete gets its glass-like finish from several rounds of polishing, using increasingly finer grit diamond grinding pads. The concrete’s hardness will determine which grits you need to get your desired finish. The densifier and sealer also contribute to the look of the final floor, so either talk to a concrete pro (or hire one) to achieve the right concrete floor finish.
Epoxy paint is a popular option for concrete due to its durability and stain resistance. You can also use masonry paint, which adheres well to concrete. Acrylic paints are more affordable but not as durable. Concrete stain is another option, which is more durable than paint and won’t peel over time.
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