Concrete Driveway Sealer

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How often should I seal my concrete driveway?

Well, it’s a bit like asking how often you should get your car serviced. It depends on a few factors, but generally speaking, you should look at sealing your concrete driveway every 2 to 3 years. If you’ve got a busy household with multiple cars coming and going, or if your driveway is exposed to harsh weather conditions, you might need to seal it more frequently.

A good quality sealer forms a protective layer over your concrete, shielding it from stains, chemicals, and the elements. Over time, this layer wears down. Regular resealing rejuvenates this barrier, keeping your driveway in tip-top shape. It’s a small investment of time and money that can save you from bigger repair costs down the line.

Sealer being poured on top of a concrete driveway.
Sealer being poured on top of a concrete driveway.
A concrete floor having an epoxy coating over the top.
A concrete floor having an epoxy coating over the top.

Types of Concrete Driveway Sealers

  • Penetrating sealers
    This seeps into the concrete driveway, creating a barrier from within that shields against moisture, stains, and chemicals. These sealers are ideal if you want to keep that natural concrete look while adding a layer of long-lasting protection.
  • Polyurethane sealers
    This one offers superior resistance to abrasion and chemicals, along with a UV stable finish that won’t yellow over time. It's perfect for driveways that need to look good and perform well in all sorts of weather.
  • Epoxy sealers
    If your driveway sees a lot of action, like multiple cars or even some light industrial use, epoxy is your best bet. It offers a high gloss finish that looks fantastic while also enabling your driveway to stand up to toughest conditions.
  • Acrylic sealers
    Acrylic sealers are the go to for a quick, glossy finish. They form a thin, protective layer on the surface, enhancing the color and adding a slight sheen. These are great if you’re looking to boost your driveway’s curb appeal with minimal fuss.

The benefits of using a sealer for your concrete driveway

Sealing your driveway significantly enhances its durability. Concrete, while tough, is still porous and can absorb water, oil from your car, and other substances that can lead to cracks and stains over time. A good sealer forms a protective barrier that prevents these elements from penetrating the surface.

Another major advantage is the aesthetics. A sealed driveway has a fresh, polished look that can boost your home’s curb appeal. Sealers come in various finishes from matte to glossy. Beyond looks, a sealer makes maintenance easier; spills and debre are much easier to clean up on a sealed surface.

Sealer being spread on a concrete driveway with a broom brush.
Sealer being spread on a concrete driveway with a broom brush.

How to remove driveway sealer from concrete

You’ll want a good quality chemical stripper, a stiff bristle brush, a pressure washer, protective gear like gloves and goggles, and some old rags or towels.

Apply the chemical stripper to the concrete surface. Follow the instructions on the product for the best results. Usually, you’ll need to spread it evenly over the area you want to strip. Don’t rush this part and make sure you cover everything thoroughly. Let the stripper sit for the recommended amount of time. This is where patience pays off. The stripper needs time to break down the sealer.

After the waiting period, grab your bristle brush and start scrubbing. This part requires a bit of elbow grease. You’re looking to loosen and lift the sealer from the concrete. Depending on how stubborn the sealer is, you might need to go over some areas a couple of times.

Once you've done what you can with the brush, grab your pressure washer. You're allowed to have some fun here, use it to rinse away the stripper and the loosened sealer. The high pressure water should blast away the residue, leaving your concrete surface clean.

After washing, let the concrete dry completely. Check the surface for any remaining sealer. If there are stubborn spots, you might need to repeat the process in those areas. Once you’ve got all the sealer off, give the driveway a good clean. Use a mild detergent and water to remove any remaining chemicals from the stripper. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry.

Get in touch for more information on concrete flooring

Our team of experts is ready to transform your floors with precision and craftsmanship. Don't settle for ordinary when you can have exceptional. Contact us now for concrete floors in England and Wales by emailing us at info@britishconcretepolishing.co.uk or by filling in the form below and our team will get back to you shortly.