How to Seal Concrete: A Step‑by‑Step Homeowner’s Guide

Sealing concrete protects it from stains, freeze-thaw damage, and wear. Whether you’re sprucing up your Denver driveway or extending the life of a patio in Aurora, this step by step guide walks you through every step.

What is concrete sealer and why should I use it?

Concrete sealer is a protective layer that either coats the surface or penetrates deep within.

• Topical sealers create a visible film that protects against stains and wear; they can add shine or grip
• Penetrating sealers soak in to block moisture without changing the look

Residents near Sloan’s Lake and Baker Street protect driveways with these sealers to prevent freeze-thaw damage from heavy snowfall.

Does concrete really need to be sealed?

Yes—especially in Colorado. Our high UV, temperature swings, and snow can damage concrete if left unsealed. According to ACI and PCA, moisture intrusion is the top cause of surface deterioration .
Sealing extends lifespan, prevents costly repairs, and keeps surfaces looking fresh.

Can I seal concrete surfaces myself?

Yes, you can—especially smaller patios or garage floors. But larger areas like driveways often benefit from professional-grade tools like airless sprayers
If you want a flawless, fast, and clean job, call us for efficient service and expert results.

Different types of concrete sealers

Different sealers offer varied levels of protection, finish, and durability. Let’s break them down:

Acrylic sealers

• Water-based: Give a clear, matte or satin coat. Easy to apply, low-VOC, and ideal for patios, pool decks, or decorative stamped concrete
• Solvent-based: Create a gloss or “wet look” finish. They darken the surface and offer better abrasion resistance—great for driveways and outdoor patios

Epoxy sealers

• Create a thick, glossy protective coating often used on concrete floors in garages or workshops. They resist chemicals and stains well, but aren’t breathable—best for interior use

Polyurethane sealants

• Available as water- or solvent-based. They offer high resistance to abrasion, UV, and weathering. Excellent for vehicle traffic areas like driveways, patios, and basement floors

Penetrating sealers

• Also known as “impregnating” or penetrating concrete sealers. These soak into the pores, forming a protective barrier that repels water and de-icing salts without changing surface look

Caulking sealant / Concrete crack sealer

• These flexible sealants fill joints and cracks, preventing moisture intrusion. Essential for maintaining integrity before sealing the main slab.

Which surfaces can you seal?

You can protect nearly any concrete surface, including:

Concrete driveways

Sealing protects your concrete driveway and prevents oil stains, freeze-thaw damage, and UV discoloration. Acrylic and penetrating sealers add a smooth or glossy finish and heavy-duty protection against vehicle traffic.

Concrete patios

Ideal for acrylic or penetrating sealers—choose based on whether you want a gloss finish or natural matte. Stamped concrete patios look sharper and resist stains longer when sealed.

Concrete floors (garage or basement)

Epoxy or polyurethane sealers work best here. They resist heavy foot traffic, garage equipment, and chemicals—offering a hard-wearing protective barrier.

Driveway cracks & expansion joints

Apply a flexible concrete crack sealer or caulk before coating. Sealing afterward helps prevent future damage from water, weathering, and shifting slabs.

Walkways and steps

These areas benefit from acrylic or penetrating sealers. Add slip-resistant grit for safety on steps or inclines, especially during Denver’s icy seasons.

Sealer Comparison Quick View

Why choosing the right sealer matters for Denver homes

Our region’s freeze-thaw cycles, high UV exposure, and snowmelt salts can damage unsealed concrete fast. The right sealer creates a protective barrier that resists abrasion, stains, and weathering—especially critical for concrete driveways, garage floors, and outdoor patios exposed to heavy use.

How do I prepare concrete before sealing?

🧹 Cleaning and repair checklist:

• Sweep and remove debris
• Clean oil stains with degreaser
• Pressure-wash using appropriate settings
• Let the surface dry completely
• Repair cracks or holes with patch compound

This prepping step prevents sealant failure and promotes better adhesion

Is it better to spray or roll concrete sealer?

Here’s a breakdown:

• Spraying offers even coverage and saves time on large surfaces
• Rolling works well on small, smooth areas and porous sealers
• Combined method (spray then back‑roll) gives best results for textured or stamped concrete

For Denver driveways, we recommend spraying with back‑rolling to ensure full coverage and longevity.

How to apply concrete sealer step‑by‑step?

1. Choose a dry day above 50°F
2. Clean and repair the surface
3. TEST with water—if it beads, the concrete is already sealed
4. Use a low-pressure sprayer or roller with proper nap
5. Apply thin, even coats—start with one, then cross‑roll for the second
6. Let each coat dry (2–5 hours based on weather)
7. Walkable in ~4 hours; avoid vehicles for 24‑48 hours

How long does it take concrete sealer to dry?

• It’s dry to touch in about 2–5 hours depending on temperature and humidity
• Wait 24–48 hours before driving on the surface

Sealing in late spring or summer works best to avoid weather interruptions

Can you seal concrete over old sealer?

You can—but only if the old coating is still solid.

• Test with spilled water: if it beads up, the old sealer is intact
• Remove failed sealer with a stripper or pressure wash
• Allow drying time before applying a fresh coat

Should I seal cracks in concrete before sealing the whole area?

Absolutely.

• Use crack filler to prevent water from entering
• Slightly overlap into the filled crack when applying sealer
• This extra step helps avoid premature cracking and extends the life of your driveway

How often should concrete be resealed?

Typically every 1 to 3 years, based on:

• Climate exposure
• Traffic and use
• Type of sealer used—topical usually lasts 1–5 years; penetrating can last 5+ years

If water no longer beads on the surface, it’s time to reseal.

What if it rains right after sealing?

Water can wash the sealer if it’s not fully cured.

• Best case: wait at least 24 hrs before any rain
• Worst case: you may need a touch-up coat afterwards

How do I maintain sealed concrete long-term?

• Sweep regularly
• Wash with soap and water monthly
• Avoid harsh chemicals & metal snow shovels
• Reapply seal coat if the sheen fades or wear is visible

Proper maintenance keeps your home looking sharp and can prevent early repairs.

What tools do professionals use vs DIY?

Professionals:

• Airless or LPHV sprayers
• Industrial rollers and brushes
• Pressure washers and crack fillers

DIY:

• Pump sprayers or garden sprayers
• Paint rollers and brushes
• Home pressure washers (low pressure)

Pros get faster, cleaner results with less risk of uneven coverage. But DIY is doable with time and care.

Can sealing concrete increase my home’s value?

Yes. A sealed driveway or patio near no matter where you are in Denver stays cleaner, resists stains, and looks well-maintained. That boosts curb appeal and suggests good upkeep when listing your home.

Ready to seal your concrete? We’re concrete sealing experts in Denver

Sealing concrete is one of the smartest maintenance steps you can take. It protects your surfaces from damage, saves you money in the long run, and keeps your home looking its best.

Want help sealing your driveway, porch, or garage floor? Call (720) 261‑4831 or request a free quote online. We’ll assess your surface, recommend the best sealer, and book the service—fast, clean, and guaranteed.

Let’s keep your concrete strong and beautiful for years to come.