Know the Basics of Proper Concrete Sealer Application: Consult Auseal

All concrete floors benefit from an application of sealer. A sealer not only enhances the appearance of concrete, but it also protects it against wear and tear along with exposure to the elements if it is outdoors. In addition, it helps make the concrete easier to clean and maintain. With all this being said, if the concrete is poorly applied, blisters and bubbles can occur, and these will spoil the appearance and condition of the concrete surface. We offer you some pertinent information in the following on how to avoid bubbles and blisters with a concrete sealer application. Below are the basics of proper concrete sealer application.

Prepare the Concrete Correctly

To ensure that the sealer adheres properly and reduce the risk of blisters and bubbles, you need to prepare the concrete in the correct manner. If the concrete flooring is new, let it cure for at least 28 days before applying a sealer. Dampen the concrete with a solution of one part hydrochloric acid and four parts water. Allow this solution to sit on the concrete for up to two minutes. Bubbles should no longer be forming before you rinse it off completely. This solution will etch the concrete. The concrete needs to thoroughly dry prior to you applying any sealer.

Do Not Apply Sealer to Hot Concrete

Avoid applying sealer to concrete flooring that is hot. The heat from it can cause bubbles and blisters. This is due to the fact that the sealer cures too quickly on the surface but not all the way through its layer.

Air Temperature Can Affect the Curing of a Sealer

If the air temperature is cold and the concrete is warm to hot, blisters and bubbles may form in the sealer. To prevent this, you need to plan ahead and apply sealer on a day when the concrete and the air are at moderate temperatures that are close together.

Apply Thin Coats of Sealer

Thick coats of concrete sealers are another reason for the issues of blistering and bubbling to happen. Thin coats allow the sealer to cure thoroughly all the way through its layer at the same rate. On the other hand, with thick coats, the surface cures more quickly than the underside of the sealer does.

How to Release Bubbles and Blisters If They Do Form

You can release the bubbles and blisters if you catch them in time by treating the sealer with solvent. It will take a bit of rubbing to accomplish this.

For additional information about how to avoid bubbles and blisters in a concrete sealer application, consult with Auseal. We specialise in a wide assortment of quality sealers for concrete floors.

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