The Significance of Curing and Sealing Concrete Surfaces

Construction companies have encountered and used a wide array of construction materials in their jobs. But one material that they would surely use in most of their projects is concrete.

Concrete is a construction material composed of cement, air, water, sand, and gravel. It is then paired with reinforcing bars, reinforcing fibres, and more materials to further strengthen a structure or building. One thing that makes concrete the go-to material for most contractors is it is versatile. This material can be used in various parts of a property like flooring, wall, and outdoor feature. Concrete is also resilient against weather elements, heavy loads, and others that can quickly damage other materials.

But the benefits of concrete can only be attained if it has been cured and sealed properly.

Curing Provides Desired Qualities

Curing is often conducted once the concrete has been poured on a specific surface or part of the property. Through this process, a concrete surface or structure is expected to acquire the desired qualities of the contractors or property owners by maintaining its relative humidity to more than 80%. Curing is also done by maintaining the concrete’s temperature to more than 10 degrees Celsius. These activities must then be carried out for around three to 14 days.

Without curing, the strength of the concrete may be compromised. A concrete that dries out too quickly is expected to fail in retaining enough water for the hardening process, leading to a weaker surface and structure. Failure to cure the concrete properly will also lead to minimised freeze-thaw and moisture resistance.

Curing can be done by flooding the concrete surface continuously for a week after its placement. Another way is to apply a liquid membrane-forming curing compound. This material is normally sprayed or rolled on the concrete surface. Once it becomes dry, the said compound can form a thin film that prevents moisture from evaporating.

Sealing Ensures Lasting Protection

After the curing process, sealing should be done next to protect the concrete surface from elements throughout its service life. Once the right concrete sealer has been applied, property owners can expect their concrete surfaces to withstand moisture, prevent cracks, resist stains, and deter fading. Cleaning and maintenance are likewise minimised with the application of an appropriate concrete sealer.

Two types of concrete sealers can be picked by property owners today. One of these types is the concrete film formers. Concrete film formers are often comprised of acrylic or rubber-based compounds that leave some thin coating on the concrete surface. These concrete sealers provide concrete surfaces with a wet look, preventing them from obtaining stains easily.

Another type of concrete sealer is the penetrating sealer. Penetrating sealers are mostly made from silicone derivatives like silanes or siloxanes. These components can penetrate the concrete pores and react with the alkaline materials and moisture present in the concrete materials, which helps the concrete become water-repellent.

If you need access to quality concrete sealers, you can contact us at Auseal. We offer sealers for domestic and commercial concrete-based floorings, driveways, and many more.

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