Best epoxy flooring pros near Tomah, WI

Yes, you can seal old concrete, but proper preparation is essential. Before sealing, ensure the concrete is clean, dry, and free of any old sealant. To check if resealing is necessary, place a few drops of water on the surface; if they are absorbed in less than five minutes, it's time to reseal. If you are using the same type of sealer that was previously applied, you may not need to remove the old layer. However, if you are applying a different type of sealer, the existing one must be removed. Additionally, repair or fill any cracks to create a smooth base before you begin sealing.

To prep a floor for painting, start by sweeping and cleaning any loose debris that could puncture the protective material. Take out as much furniture as possible. Then lay plastic, canvas, rosin paper, or masonite sheets across the room, securing them at the edges with masking tape. Plan your painting so that you minimize the chances you’ll step in and track any splatters.

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.

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.