Concrete is the backbone of modern construction, a material celebrated for its strength and durability. Yet, without proper protection, even the toughest concrete is vulnerable to the elements, from harsh weather and UV rays to chemical spills and moisture intrusion. The solution is simple but profound: sealing.
If you’re wondering how to seal concrete to protect your investment, you’ve come to the right place. While the process is straightforward, the difference between a DIY job and a professional application can mean decades of extra life for your surfaces. At Premier Edge Concrete Solutions, we believe in empowering homeowners with knowledge while offering the superior service that guarantees lasting results.
Here is a breakdown of the essential steps to properly seal your concrete, transforming it from a porous sponge into a resilient, protected surface.
5 Easy Steps to Professional Concrete Sealing
The goal of sealing is to apply a protective barrier that penetrates the concrete, locking out moisture and contaminants. This process is crucial for driveways, patios, walkways, and even interior surfaces, such as a Basement Epoxy Floor or Garage Floor Coating. This is key to how our concrete coating works. We also offer Epoxy Floor Coating for maximum protection.
Step 1: Deep Cleaning and Preparation
Just like with any coating, preparation is paramount. The sealant must bond directly with the concrete, not with dirt, oil, or efflorescence.
- Remove All Debris: Sweep and clear the area of all loose dirt, leaves, and debris.
- Pressure Wash: Use a commercial-grade pressure washer to blast away surface grime and open the concrete’s pores.
- Degrease Stains: Treat any oil or grease stains with a specialized concrete degreaser. These contaminants must be completely lifted, or the sealant will not adhere properly in those spots.
- Allow to Dry: The concrete must be bone-dry before sealing. This can take 24 to 48 hours, depending on the weather and humidity. Pro Tip: If the concrete darkens when you sprinkle water on it, it’s ready to absorb the sealant.
Step 2: Repairing Cracks and Damage
A sealant will protect the surface, but it won’t fix structural damage. Before sealing, all cracks and spalls must be addressed.
- Clean and Fill: Use a specialized concrete repair caulk or epoxy filler to fill any cracks wider than a hairline. For larger spalled areas, a patching compound is necessary.
- Level the Surface: Ensure the repair material is level with the surrounding concrete for a smooth, professional finish.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Sealant
The type of sealant you choose depends on the concrete’s location and the desired finish. Premier Edge Concrete Solutions primarily uses high-performance penetrating sealers for maximum protection. This is a key part of our philosophy on how our concrete coating works.
- Penetrating Sealers: These soak into the concrete, chemically reacting to form a barrier that repels water from within. They offer excellent protection without altering the concrete’s appearance or texture. They are ideal for driveways and other areas where a natural look is preferred.
- Topical Sealers: These form a protective film on the surface, often providing a glossy or “wet look.” They are popular for decorative applications, such as stamped concrete or Outdoor Floor Coating. This is also a common aesthetic for Landscape Curbing & Edging. We also offer ADA Concrete Coating for accessibility. For interior applications, consider our Epoxy Floor Coating systems.
Step 4: Application of the Sealant
The application method is key to achieving a uniform, streak-free finish.
- Use a Sprayer or Roller: For penetrating sealers, a low-pressure sprayer is often the best tool for an even coat. For topical sealers, a long-handled roller with a suitable nap is recommended.
- Apply Thin, Even Coats: It is always better to apply two thin coats than one thick coat. A thick coat can lead to bubbling, streaking, and an uneven cure.
- Work in Sections: To maintain a wet edge and avoid lap marks, work in small, manageable sections, especially on large areas like driveways or patios.
Step 5: Curing and Waiting
Patience is a virtue in concrete sealing. The sealant needs time to penetrate, cure, and harden to achieve its full protective potential. To understand the importance of this step, you can read our related article, How Long After Sealing Concrete Can You Walk on It? Curing Times Explained.
The Premier Edge Advantage
While the steps are clear, the execution requires professional-grade materials and equipment. Our Concrete Sealing service goes beyond the basics, utilizing industrial-strength products that are far superior to what is available in big-box stores. For industrial-strength protection, consider our Commercial Resinous Flooring. We also offer Epoxy Floor Coating systems. We also offer ADA Concrete Coating for commercial spaces.
Our expertise ensures:
- Optimal Penetration: We use commercial-grade sealants designed for deep penetration and maximum water repellency.
- Flawless Finish: Our application techniques guarantee a uniform, streak-free finish every time.
- Long-Term Value: We address the underlying issues, ensuring the sealant provides the long-term protection detailed in our article, What Does Sealing Concrete Do: Protection Benefits and Long-Term Value.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
Sealing your concrete is not an optional maintenance task; it is a critical investment in the longevity and appearance of your property. Whether you need Concrete Sealing for your patio or a full Garage Floor Coating, the principle of protection remains the same. This applies to all our services, including Basement Epoxy Floor and Outdoor Floor Coating. By following these steps, you are actively defending your concrete against the harsh realities of weather, traffic, and chemical exposure. For the ultimate peace of mind and a guaranteed professional result, trust the experts who specialize in concrete protection. We also offer landscape curbing and edging to complete your property’s look.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
Don’t wait for the damage to start. Secure the future of your concrete surfaces with a professional sealing application from Premier Edge Concrete Solutions.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate!

I’m Nathan Endres, owner of Premier Edge Concrete Solutions. I ensure every project showcases quality and excellence. Specializing in landscape curbing and floor coatings, my team and I serve Grand Rapids, MI, with a focus on providing reliable and affordable craftsmanship.
















