Taking care of concrete is an important part of keeping your commercial property in good and safe condition. However, prevention is just as important as maintenance, and commercial waterproofing concrete sealers are one of the best options to keep your concrete from succumbing to damage from moisture and weather. Concrete sealers come in a variety of types, and picking the right one for your needs will ensure that your business doesn’t spend more money than necessary to protect your concrete while still using a reliable sealant.
Here’s what you need to know about waterproofing concrete sealers for commercial uses and how to pick the best ones for your needs.
What Is Waterproof Concrete Sealing Used For?
Waterproof concrete sealing is a type of covering that binds with the concrete on a chemical level to prevent moisture from intruding into the surface. Because moisture can seep into concrete and cause it to break apart or degrade-especially in climates where that moisture may freeze and thaw repeatedly-keeping the materials safe from moisture will help them last longer.
While the upfront cost of waterproof concrete sealing discourages some businesses from investing in it, the longer-term cost of consistent repairs to the concrete, stripping and repouring it and patching cracks can all result in higher costs over time. Coupled with the risk of slips, trips and falls due to damaged concrete, waterproofing commercial concrete using a sealant is advisable for any business that uses concrete surfaces.
Is Concrete Sealer the Same as Decorative and Durable Coating?
If you have already looked into concrete sealer as an option for your commercial structure, you may have encountered a choice between concrete sealant, a decorative coating or a durable coating. While these materials are often discussed as if they are interchangeable, there are important distinctions between them that businesses will need to understand in order to pick the best product for their uses.
Concrete sealer is based on a chemical reaction that bonds the sealing material directly with the concrete. By occupying the spaces in which water molecules would enter, concrete sealant keeps the moisture out of the concrete naturally. One advantage of sealants is that they are still breathable, so vapor can escape to prevent moisture from building up underneath the applied sealing material. They are also robust against deicing salt, which is critical for concrete that is exposed to cold climates.
Decorative coatings are applied to the top of concrete and serve as a moisture barrier. They are usually made of acrylic and leave a glossy finish. However, because they sit on top of the concrete, they change the appearance and may wear away quicker than other options, necessitating more reapplications.
Durable coatings are similar to decorative coatings, but they are a little more durable. Because UV rays can turn them a yellowish color, most durable coatings are reserved for indoor use.
The Best Commercial Grade Waterproofing Concrete Sealers
When it comes to picking the right commercial waterproofing sealers for your concrete, the best choice will depend on your needs and aesthetic goals, as well as your budget. The best concrete sealers in 2022 include:
1. Siloxa-Tek 8500
Many industry experts recommend th Siloxa-Tek 8500 as the premier waterproofing sealer of 2022. It is available as a concentrate, and the silane contained within the product contributes to greater longevity than competitors. In testing, no water was absorbed into the Siloxa-Tek material, and it arrives ready to use.
2. Rust-Oleum Okon S-40
If the Siloxa-Tek’s slight vulnerability to stains is a dealbreaker for your company, Rust-Oleum’s Okon option may be a worthwhile choice. It’s not concentrated, which may be a better choice for some businesses, and it is available as a 40% silane/siloxane mixture-higher than many other industry competitors. As an affordable option, the Okon is a worthy runner-up for most applications.
3. Foundation Armor AR350
If a level, smooth finish is most important to you, the Foundation Armor AR350 can make your life easier. Its self-leveling formula fixes uneven surfaces in seconds and dries within 24 hours. For a sealer that provides the benefit of a sheen-like coating, the Foundation product also shines. It is resistant to deicing materials and cold temperatures as well.
Trust the Pros to Help You Select the Right Product for Your Needs
If you are ready to waterproof your commercial concrete, choosing the right product is one of the most important steps. The experts at Waterproof Caulking & Restoration would be happy to help you make this decision based on the unique needs and risks of your business. Reach out to learn more or to schedule an appointment to get started. A woman in an art museum full of people