How to Test Concrete Sealers for Durability?
Concrete sealer does more than keep concrete surfaces looking fresh and impressive. It’s an absolute must-have for sealing concrete block. In other words, it makes concrete that much stronger and more durable.
So, when considering a concrete sealant, it’s vital to test the product before purchasing. Below are steps that experts in concrete sealers San Diego proposed for you to test concrete sealers.
1. Get a Sample of the Concrete Sealer From the Manufacturer
Getting a sample concrete sealant from the manufacturer or concrete sealing companies is always recommended. Getting a sample gives you peace of mind from knowing exactly what you’re placing on your property. It also guarantees the quality of the materials used to make your concrete sealing block.
2. Prepare the Surface By Cleaning It and Making Sure There is No Dirt or Debris
Before sealing a concrete driveway or any concrete surface, it is essential to scrape off any buildup of dirt, dust, or debris from the surface. Sweep it away to clear the surface. Scrub the floor using trisodium phosphate (TSP) and water to remove all dirt from the pores of the concrete. Use a vacuum to clean up any remaining water and debris. Let the surface dry for 24 hours.
3. Apply the Sealer According to the Manufacturer's Instructions
Apply a thin coat of sealer evenly on the entire surface. The device you use to apply the sealer depends on the type of sealer you apply, and you will either use a sprayer or a nap roller. When sealing the concrete floor, follow all application instructions and square footage suggestions the sealer manufacturer provides.
4. Wait for the Sealer to Dry Completely
When sealing concrete block, wait until the recommended time for the sealer to dry thoroughly. Check the sealer can for the specific drying times required by the manufacturer. The sealer must be thoroughly dried before you use the concrete to prevent damage for several years.
5. Test the Durability of the Sealer by Pouring a Cup of Water Onto the Surface
f you’re sealing new concrete, the water drop test is the fastest way to test if the sealer is durable. Drop small amounts of water over different concrete areas, and see if the water beads up or soaks into the surface.
6. If the Water Beads Up, the Sealer is Durable; if it Seeps Into the Surface, it is Not
After dripping water on the concrete, check if the water beads up on the surface. If the water stays, then the surface is sealed. If the water soaks into the concrete surface in a few seconds or minutes, the sealer on the surface is not durable.
7. Additionally, You Can Test the Sealer's Durability By Performing a Scratch Test
Conduct a scratch test to see how well the sealer is adhering to the concrete. It determines sealer durability and detects if it effectively seals cracks in concrete. To perform the test, press a diamond stylus onto the coating surface. Use a constant or increasing load while moving at a fixed speed. The sealer will either delaminate from or cut through the surface, depending on the properties of the sealer.
Conclusion
You won’t have to worry about cracks or fading color over time. After all, concrete sealing is an investment worth making! You may want to know, “Is there any concrete sealing near me?” Go online for a quick lookup to find out providers near you. Do yourself a favor and leverage a sample sealer for sealing concrete blocks from the manufacturer by visiting their store location or website today!