Concrete sealers can range in cost between $112 – $160 for five gallons installed. For an average garage floor of about 200 sq. ft. sealed with one coat of epoxy, you can expect to pay anywhere between $395 – $850. For a small DIY project, you can get away with anywhere from $115 or more. On the other hand, should you require extensive repair and preparation as well as thick coating of epoxy and stain, you could be looking at $7,000.
When it comes to concrete sealers, it’s not a one-size-fits-all. There is a wide variety of sealers available on the market.
Some work well on exterior environments while others are bound to interior applications.
It’s important that you check with your manufacturer to find out which sealer best suits your environment and what it is that you are sealing.
What Is A Concrete Sealer?
Whether you are building concrete steps, laying a concrete sidewalk, or working on your concrete driveway, a good-quality sealer that comes recommended by a local professional will massively increase the lifespan of your concrete and minimize your maintenance.
It doesn’t matter whether you have a concrete patio or decorative concrete pavement, in some regions, it simply won’t stand up to the elements. Concrete is a porous material and it can easily absorb fluids, making concrete sealers necessary.
Nowadays, sealing a concrete driveway is easy, so most people opt to have it done at some point if the concrete. However, if you’re going to have concrete sealer applied to your surfaces, you have to make sure it’s not only attractive but long-lasting too.
Type of Concrete Sealers
Concrete sealers help keep concrete dry as they prevent water absorption. When dirt and other particles get into the pores of the concrete it not only makes it harder to clean but it shortens the lifetime. that’s why sealing it is so important, not to mention, choosing the right sealer. There are 4 types penetrating sealer and several different subtypes of concrete sealers to consider, including:
- penetrating
- acrylic
- polyurethane
- epoxies
- film-forming
- siloxane concrete sealer
- polyurethane
- acrylic
- clear sealer
- driveway sealer
A concrete sealer is a great way to protect your concrete surfaces without drastically altering its appearance.
What Are The Benefits Of A Concrete Sealer?
Concrete is a porous material, allowing dirt and particles to get into it. Not only does this make it harder to clean but it also shortens the lifetime of the concrete. That’s why sealing it is so important and why choosing the right type of sealer can make all the difference in the world.
Penetrating sealers
Penetrating sealers are your best option for protecting concrete’s longevity.
They can be either water-based or solvent-based.
However, penetrating concrete sealers is actually a coating that reacts within the capillaries of the concrete and soaks in underneath the surface. It is virtually undetectable once dry while providing excellent outdoor exposure protection.
Moreover, penetrating sealers are still breathable allowing moisture vapor to escape.
Quality sealers can last a lifetime. If you ever have to reapply another coat, it can be done with a minimum of preparation and without removing the first coat.
How Much Does it Cost to Seal a Concrete Driveway?
The cost of sealing a concrete driveway is going to depend on whether you hire a contractor or do the sealing yourself. And although it is possible for a handy DIYer to seal a driveway, we highly recommend that you get in touch with some local experts to compare quotes, discuss all your options, and get a better idea of the pricing trends in your area.
However, based on some national costs, it’s still possible to get a rough estimate of how much this should cost you.
Several factors can also affect your overall cost. To get a more accurate idea of how much your concrete sealer project should cost, we highly recommend you get in touch with a local professional.
Concrete stain
You can also opt to change the appearance and color of the concrete surface you want to seal by adding a coat of concrete stain. These come in both water and acid-base and once applied, it will permanently change the color of your concrete floor. Once applied, a protective top-coat will also be necessary. Concrete stain can add an additional $2 -$4 per sq.ft.
Labor Costs
In some cases, a concrete sealer can be applied by the homeowner.
Most can be poured and rolled onto a clean concrete floor and left for anywhere from 5-7 hours.
On the other hand, if you choose a professional to get the job done, you could be looking at anywhere from $2 -$4 per sq.ft.
For jobs that require more than one coat alongside some repairs, you can be looking at $25 – $30 per sq. ft. on labor.
Get in Touch With a Local Professional
The cost to apply a concrete sealer will be influenced by many factors and can vary greatly by region as well as zip code. Why not get in touch with some local contractors now to get a free estimate.