Concrete is a tough product that does not require sealant. Under the right conditions, unsealed concrete driveways, patios, and sidewalks can last up to 50 years. They may also last as little as 10 years due to poor product or installation or adverse conditions. Proper driveway sealing extends concrete lifespan. Consider all the pros and cons when deciding whether or not to seal your driveway.
Benefits Of Sealing a Concrete Driveway
Concrete driveway sealant repels water, increases lifespan, resists stains, and usually looks better than raw concrete.
Freshly poured concrete must cure for at least 30 days before a sealant is applied. Sealing the driveway too soon traps moisture in the concrete–preventing complete curing and shortening the lifespan of both concrete and sealant.
Water Protection
Contrary to its look and feel, concrete is very porous. It absorbs water and moisture. Driveways experience a lot of moisture–rain, lawn watering, vehicle washing, etc. Water can erode concrete, and cause cracks and flaking. Freeze and thaw cycles crack and break up concrete.
Driveway sealants are absorbed into concrete pores and prevent water absorption–eliminating many moisture-caused problems.
Increased Longevity
Driveway sealant reduces driving and parking wear and tear on concrete. Sealed concrete is less prone to cracking, chipping, and fading. Once concrete is damaged, water and dirt penetrate deeper, accelerating the decay process.
High-quality sealants also prevent damage and stains to concrete caused by road salt.
Stain Resistant
Sealants prevent liquids such as oil, diesel, decomposing organic matter, spilled food, etc. from soaking into concrete driveways. Liquids bead up and easily wipe away without staining the concrete.
Improved Appearance
Concrete sealants provide a rich glossy look to driveways. Clear sealers enrich colored concrete. Some sealant manufacturers offer tinted products–up to 200 colors–that can be used for color coordination and enhance curb appeal.
Disadvantages Of Sealing a Concrete Driveway
Sealing a concrete driveway has a few disadvantages. Most of them are easily overcome but should be considered because sealing a driveway is permanent.
Slippery Surface
Most concrete sealants dry to a shiny slick finish. They are extremely slippery when wet or after a dusting of snow. Consider buying driveway sealant with an abrasive additive. What you lose in smooth shiny finish, you gain in safety.
Gives Off Toxic VOCs
Most driveway sealants are solvent-based. They give off harsh toxic fumes and kill grass and plants if over-sprayed. Keep children and pets away while applying the coating. Wear personal protective equipment including a respirator while working.
Eco-friendly sealers are available but they cost more and often require more than one coat to do the job.
Requires Resealing
Sealed manufacturers claim their product lasts 3 to 10 years. Plan to re-apply sealant every 3 – 5 years. You save yourself the need to scrape off old sealant that has lifted or worn thin. Use the same product for resealing to ensure that it adheres to the original.
Extra Expense
DIY driveway sealing is easy but time-consuming. Good sealants cost up to $200.00 for a 5-gallon pail that covers about 500 square feet. This works out to $0.40 per square foot plus the cost of rollers and brushes. Follow the directions carefully.
Hiring a concrete company to seal your driveway costs an average of $1.50 per square foot. More expensive but quicker and the work and product come with a warranty.
