Sealing Concrete Floors - Types, Benefits & Step-by-Step Guide

house The Concrete Flooring Company team Mar 21, 2025

Why Sealing Concrete Floors Matters: Benefits, Types, and How-To Guide

Whether your concrete flooring is in a home kitchen, living area, office, or commercial setting, sealing concrete floors is essential to protect and prolong their lifespan. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of concrete floor sealers, how they work, and why sealing is so important for maintaining durable, attractive surfaces.

Types of Concrete Floor Sealers

There are three primary types of concrete sealers, each offering unique advantages depending on your specific needs:

Topical Sealers

These are applied directly to the surface of the floor, creating a protective layer. Topical concrete sealers are ideal for both indoor and outdoor use and help shield your floors from stains, abrasions, and surface wear.

Penetrating Sealers

Designed to soak into the concrete, these penetrating sealers form a chemical barrier within the surface that protects against moisture and contaminants. This internal defense significantly improves resistance to long-term damage.

Integral Sealers

Integral sealers are added directly to the concrete mix before the floor is even poured. This means your concrete floor starts protecting itself from day one. Like topical sealers, they offer excellent protection but with the added benefit of immediate action.

Why Sealing Your Concrete Floor Is Crucial

Properly sealing your concrete floors provides a wide range of benefits — from protection against the elements to enhanced aesthetics. Here’s why you should never skip this vital step:

Prevents Mould and Moisture Damage

Unsealed concrete floors are vulnerable to moisture penetration, which can lead to mould and bacterial growth. By sealing the surface, you block moisture from seeping in, maintaining a healthier indoor environment.

Enhances Floor Durability

Sealed concrete floors resist cracking, chipping, and surface wear — even under heavy foot traffic or harsh conditions. If you want long-term concrete floor protection, sealing is key to minimizing damage and costly repairs.

Increases Longevity

A high-quality sealer can extend the life of your concrete floor by 25–30 years. That means fewer replacements and less maintenance over time.

Shields Against Stains and UV Rays

Sealers guard your floors against oil stains, weather changes, and UV damage, helping them stay cleaner and more consistent in appearance.

Maintains Floor Colour

With the rising trend of coloured concrete floors, sealing becomes even more important. UV rays and spills can quickly fade untreated surfaces, but a good sealer preserves your floor’s vibrant colour and polished look.

How to Prepare Your Concrete Floor for Sealing

Proper preparation is crucial for the sealer to adhere correctly and perform effectively. Follow these steps to prep your concrete floor for sealing:

  • Clear all furniture and objects from the room.

  • Carefully remove skirting boards using a putty knife.

  • Sweep up dust and debris thoroughly.

  • Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors.

  • Use a degreasing solution to clean the floor.

  • Scrub stubborn oily spots with a wire brush.

  • Mop the floor with clean water and let it dry completely.

  • Fill any cracks using a quick-drying concrete filler.

  • Once the surface is clean, dry, and smooth — you’re ready to seal.

How to Seal a Concrete Floor

Follow these simple steps to properly apply a concrete floor sealer:

  • Pour the sealer into a paint tray.

  • Use a paint roller to apply the sealer in even coats across the floor.

  • Use a brush to carefully seal the room's edges.

  • Always work from the far end of the room toward the exit to avoid trapping yourself.

  • Allow the floor to dry for 12–24 hours. To speed up the process, you can use fans or dehumidifiers. Once dry, reattach skirting boards and return furniture to the space. Your sealed concrete floor is now protected and ready to shine.

How Often Should You Reseal Concrete Floors?

To maintain peak performance and appearance, reseal your concrete floors every 2–5 years. This schedule helps prevent damage such as pitting, cracking, and surface erosion, while preserving the floor’s strength and style.

Need Help with Concrete Floor Sealing?

Sealing your concrete floor is a smart, simple way to boost durability, resist wear, and maintain that fresh, polished look. For expert advice, or to schedule professional concrete sealing, contact the team at Concrete Flooring Solutions today. We’re here to help you get the most out of your floors for years to come.