can I seal concrete floor after just cleaning it? or do I HAVE to polish it first?
My concrete floor is about 50 years old, has some great character (scrapes, stains, etc) and we’d like to just seal the floor with a wet look high-gloss Concrete Sealer. I am wondering if we can just apply the sealer after cleaning the floor very thoroughly … or if we have to first polish / sand the concrete in order for it to work?
We like the appearance exactly as it is, don’t want to sand out any imperfections if not necessary. Thanks.
Yes polish! Then seal. New conc. needs muratic acid before paint.
I don’t know about polishing it, but letting the surface dry thoroughly is a MUST before applying sealer.
References :
Yes polish! Then seal. New conc. needs muratic acid before paint.
References :
For the best adhesion, you need "etch" the floor. This is done by cleaning the floor with a muriatic acid wash. You should be able to buy the acid at your local hardware store. MAKE SURE you follow the dilution formula written on the acid bottle. It’s usually about 10 parts water to 1 part acid. Rinse the floor thoroughly following the etching to ensure you wash away any leftover acid, then wait for the floor to completely dry. Generally about 2-3 days.
You can then go ahead and seal the floor. It will last a hell of a long time if you follow these steps, otherwise it will peel and chip in a short period of time.
BTW, the acid is not expensive either. About $40 for 1000sqft
References :
The concrete needs to be dry before applying a sealer. Leave it for at least 24 hrs if it;s an interior floor and longer if it’s exterior depending on where you live.
References :
stained,painted and sealed a lot of concrete in my home!
http://www.roomzaar.com/rate-my-space/Other-Spaces/Painting-concrete-to-look-like-wood-floor/detail.esi?oid=6721769
http://www.roomzaar.com/rate-my-space/Garages/Painting-and-staining-concrete-garage-floor/detail.esi?oid=1416188
Hi,
I actually just wrote a short article about cleaning concrete which includes information regarding your question. I’ve listed the link for you and hope you find it helpful. Thanks Kimberly
http://www.ehow.com/how_5651184_clean-concrete.html
References :
It is wise to polish it after cleaning it throughly, if not you risk having a white film that will come out of the seal finish after drying.
References :
30 years of exprience
http://concretebyjerry.webs.com/