Ornamental concrete floors are gaining popularity as an alternative to tiles or natural stone products. Whether it is an indoor floor, in the basement or in the garage, it is porous and must be sealed to prevent the formation of stains. If the floor is colored, it is especially important to seal it to preserve its color. You can choose both a matte and a glossy sealant. This article will provide you with a guide on how to properly seal the floor in your home or garage.
Steps
Step 1. Remove everything from the room you need to work in
This type of project does not allow to work "by zone".
Step 2. Lift the molding or baseboard from the wall with a crowbar or putty knife
Insert the spatula gently in order to avoid damaging or cracking the baseboard.
Step 3. Sweep any residue off the floor
Dirt, dust, dead insects, nails or other material must be completely removed to prepare the concrete.
Step 4. Open windows and doors to ventilate the room
Step 5. Degrease the floor using a suitable product
The degreaser will eliminate any oily residue that has infiltrated the floor. Simply mix the product as indicated in the instructions (usually just dilute it in a bucket of water) and spread it on the floor using a broom or rag.
Step 6. Scrub the particularly oily areas to squeeze the substance off the floor
Step 7. Rinse the floor surface with the rag
Use clean water and a rag that you will squeeze several times until you have removed any residue.
Step 8. Let the floor dry
This may take up to 24 hours. You could speed up the process by aiming a fan or using a dehumidifier on the floor in question.
Step 9. Fill any joints or cracks with quick-drying grout
This will ensure you have a well-leveled surface before sealing it. Simply squeeze the bottle to apply the product to the floor, and level with a putty knife.
Step 10. Allow the product to dry, it may take several hours, as indicated on the package
Step 11. Pour a small amount of concrete sealer into a paint pan
Step 12. Apply the sealant to the floor evenly
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Use a brush to apply the product to the sides of the room.
Seal Concrete Floors Step 12Bullet1 -
Use a roller with a telescopic handle to apply the product to the rest of the floor. Work from one corner of the room to an exit so you don't get stuck.
Seal Concrete Floors Step 12Bullet2
Step 13. Give the sealant time to dry
Typically 12-24 hours. Again you can use a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the process.
Step 14. Secure the baseboard or molding to the base of the wall with nails and bring the furniture back into the room
Advice
- Repeat this every 5 years for optimal floor life.
- Depending on the level of grease on the floor, you will have to repeat the degreasing several times before you can seal.
- If you decide to dye the surface with a decorative color or pattern, this must be done after filling the cracks. This will lengthen the work time since you will have to wait for the paint to dry.
