As we expand our decorative applications of concrete, choosing the
most appropriate sealer for a particular project can become
complicated. Acrylics, urethanes and epoxies are available in solvent
and water based formulas. Even some sealers that are emulsions far
exceed the current VOC standards, yet still offer the reliable
properties of the old standard solvents. So how does one choose the
best product? It really comes down to knowing what the project
demands. What follows is a list of products and the ways to best use
them. This not the final word by a long shot but are simply tips and
suggestions to help you choose the best sealer for the job at hand.
Acrylics: Solvent-based acrylics hold their own as the standard
concrete sealer. Euclid Chemical's Super Diamond Clear
(http://www.euclidchemical.com/db/xq/asp.dbPDS.DBID/qx/P42.htm ) and
Sonneborn Products'
Kure-N-Seal 30 ( http://www.chemrex.com/ )are two popular varieties.
Both are cure and seal formulas so the job is protected and completed
much faster. Super Diamond Clear dries faster, provides a higher,
longer lasting shine and costs more. Two other acrylics to consider
are Star, Inc.'s Starseal 1315 ( http://www.starseal.com/ )and
Certivex. Starseal is water-based and Certivex is an emulsion with
only seven-percent solvents. Both sealers offer high gloss, better
coverage rates and cost less than the solvent-based acrylics. As well,
both can be used inside or outside, though Certivex is the better
choice of the two for outside work. The draw back is both require 24
hours between coats, which can extend the time-line of a project.
Acrylics range in price from $65 to $110 per bucket.
Urethanes: Urethanes offer a step up in durability and scuff
resistance. Semco's XC-400 is a one-part water-based polymer formula,
which is also available in low and medium gloss, and is best used on
inside projects. It provides excellent coverage, good scuff resistance
and is compatible with Semco's PreStain products, making it a favorite
when using the Semco coloring system. Another good product is MC-430,
a single component, aliphatic solvent urethane with superior gloss,
abrasion resistance and a coverage rate of 400 sq. feet per gallon.
Urethane costs range from $36 tp $70 per gallon.
Epoxies: Epoxies are applied much heavier than the other top coat
products and yield up to 100-200 sq. ft. per gallon. Semco's Xpoxy (
http://www.semcotbs.com/ )wears to a semi-gloss finish with good slip
resistance. Broadcast 125 is a 100 percent solid formula with no water
or solvent content. Broadcast 125 hardens quickly and provides great
durability. Both epoxies are good choices for commercial work and
countertops. Epoxies cost around $55 per gallon.
Duckback Products (Chico, CA http://www.superdeck.com/ ) has also
launched new Mason's Select transparent concrete stain which is
designed to accent variations in the color, texture and porosity of
concrete, giving a multi-hued appearance found in natural stone
surfaces. Clear concrete sealers and a concrete cleaner are also
included in the line.
Both urethanes and epoxies provide superior chemical resistance, which
is important in some commercial and industrial applications. There is
one possible drawback to using these types of sealers; the
transmission of vapour through the slab can result in blushing or
delaminating. A low-tech yet effective test to measure vapour is to
double tape a 24x24 inch sheet of six millimetre polyurethane onto the
concrete overnight. Condensation trapped under the plastic indicates a
problem. It's prudent to do a vapour check before undertaking these
tasks.
Source/Reference
Choosing the Best Sealer: Doug Bannister
http://www.concretenetwork.com/doug_bannister/choosing_the_best_sealer.htm
Another great site to check out would be the "Concrete Network.com" (
http://www.concretenetwork.com/ ). It has hundred of links to various
sites and achieves, as well as having a directory of 58 Services and
Products in 164 US metro areas.
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