Choosing the Right Sort of Concrete Sealer to Protect Your Walls
Concrete is a tough building material, but still susceptible to wear and tear. The usage of concrete sealers may help you protect your property and shield it from corrosion.
Folks have used concrete to build immense constructions since the period of ancient Romans. Despite its resilience, concrete remains prone to decay and degeneration. Ask your Calgary concrete firm to use a concrete sealer if you would like preserve your property.
As outlined by studies done by the National Ready Mix Concrete Association, Portland Cement Association, and the American Concrete Institute, most destruction of concrete relates to fluid absorption. Sealers can clog up the concrete’s pores to lessen the absorption of water along with other substances, or form an outer layer that hinders these substances from getting through. Below are a few sorts of sealers your Calgary concrete company may apply to your construction.
Wax Sealers
Wax sealers are quick solutions for many who cannot afford to cover their construction with more expensive sealers just yet. These sealers are affordable, but last only around nine to twelve months.
Capillary or Silicate Sealer
This type of sealer is the most widely used, especially for cellar wall surfaces. It adheres with concrete under the surface area upon application, filling the concrete’s pores and protecting against moisture infiltration. In addition, it increases the concrete’s capacity to resist heavy weight and force by as much as 40%. It dries clear and can be painted over, so you do not need to worry about it spoiling your construction. Just one application of capillary sealer will last a long time.
Polyester Sealers
These rapid-drying sealers perform much like capillary sealers, penetrating the deeper levels of concrete to fill up its pores to stop moisture absorption. They cannot entirely cease the infiltration of fumes and gas, however, and need recoating annually.
Latex-based Paint
Latex-based paint can double as a concrete sealer, but is almost exclusively utilized for cellar walls. While it does keep dampness away to some extent, it’s vulnerable to peeling or cracking. This sealer needs recoating annually, or more frequently based on how much dampness and fumes the paint is subjected to.
Silane/Siloxane Sealers
This clear, water-based sealer is used for concrete and heavy masonry surfaces like stucco and stone. The principal trouble with this kind of sealer is it wears off and discolours very easily when subjected to too much ultraviolet (UV) light and it cannot be repainted. In addition, it needs yearly reapplication.
Acrylic Sealers
This type of sealer is best for outdoor surfaces consistently subjected to sunshine because it’s resistant to UV damage. It appears glossy when it dries, which makes it suitable for beautifying colorful or decorative walls. The toxicity levels of acrylic sealers lead to some concern among property and building owners, but some Calgary concrete providers offer you water-based acrylic sealers, which are a lot less toxic than standard solvent-based ones.
Deciding on the right type of concrete sealer for your construction or house is critical if you want to ensure that it is stronger while still conserving its aesthetic charm. Talk to your architect or licensed contractor to see which type of sealer you must apply to your walls.