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Solvent-based acrylic sealers are a type of widely-used sealer on concrete driveways, paths and pool-surrounds to protect and increase the surface and color of the concrete. This type of sealer contains a higher level of VOCs than water-based acrylic sealers. It provides chemical and stain resistance to concrete.
What is better water based or solvent based concrete sealer?
Water based concrete sealers are usually the best option for DIY projects due to their low odor, VOC content, and ease of application. Solvent based concrete sealers are better for commercial projects and professional use. Both sealer types are excellent at protecting concrete and are easy to apply.
How can you tell if a sealer is solvent based?
Appearance. One key difference between water-based and solvent-based sealers is their appearance after application and cure. Solvent-based sealers tend to wet-out and penetrate concrete surfaces very well.
Can solvent based sealer go over water based sealer?
In general, putting a solvent-based sealer on top of a water-based sealer is a bad idea. The solvents can eat or soften the existing water-based sealer, destroying both coatings. They tend to have low gloss levels (matte to stain) and do not darken the surface as much solvent-based sealers do.
How long does solvent based concrete sealer last?
Decorative concrete sealers are available as solvent or water based products and can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. Solvent based concrete sealers will last longer than water based concrete sealers. Keep in mind that if you like the decorative look you are going to have to pay to keep it up.
How do you clean a solvent based sealer?
How to Clean a Solvent-Based-Sealer Sprayer (1) Once you’ve finished spraying, empty any sealer left in the sprayer. (3) Add approximately one pint of either Acetone or Xylene. (5) Pump up the pressure and spray the Acetone or Xylene back into its can.
Is oil based sealer better than water based?
Water based stains have become more durable than they use to be but oil based stains are still considered to be more durable. This does mean you will have to reapply more often that oil based finishes but the advantage of easier application does offset this somewhat.
Can you paint over solvent based sealer?
You can’t apply paint over an acrylic concrete sealer and expect it to bond for very long. If it is solvent based (not water based) you can apply it over the solvent based sealer you have already used.
Can I put sealer over sealer?
Applying new sealer is most often perceived as a new layer over an old one, but this should not be the case. Instead, visualize mixing over stacking. The new sealer must “mix” in order to release trapped moisture and reactivate previously applied sealer.
Is concrete sealer flammable when dry?
They do not contain any solvents and have zero or very low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC). These sealers are not hazardous, flammable, or combustible. Solvent based sealers on the other hand may be considered hazardous. Solvent vapors can cause respiratory irritation.
How do you use a solvent based concrete sealer with a roller?
To apply concrete sealer with a roller first stir and prepare your sealant, next pour enough in the center of the area you are sealing and use your roller to work it from the middle outwards, cover the area completely with a thin even layer and let it dry. Once dry add a second layer if required.
How do you use acrylic sealer?
Acrylic sealers can be applied by a pump-up sprayer or roller, but it’s important to put them down in very thin coats to avoid fracturing. Even with two coats, the total thickness should be only about 1 to 2 mils.
Is water based sealer waterproof?
No matter what kind of concrete sealer you go with, remember that the proper application is key. They are not completely waterproof or water resistant until they have fully cured, and if they are exposed to water or moisture before curing, this can lead to problems such as bubbling or foaming.
How long does water based concrete sealer last?
Siliconate Water Repellent Sealers: Like with Silane-Siloxane water repellent sealers, Siliconate sealers will last anywhere from 6 months to 10 years. Most low solids solutions found in store will last 6 monts to a year, while higher solids solutions, like the Armor SC25 will last for up to 7-10 years.
How do you fix a cloudy water based concrete sealer?
How to Fix Cloudy Concrete Sealer You can use a chemical called acetone to fix the issue if you applied the sealer within the last couple of days. Xylene is a stronger chemical that you can use. You can use water to apply pressure on the sealer and remove the moisture as long as the sealer has not dried up completely.
How many coats of concrete sealer should I use?
Concrete sealers are best applied in two thin coats. The first coat of sealer acts like a primer. Most of it will disappear into the concrete surface, and the concrete will probably look fairly unattractive after the first coat.
What do you use to seal cement?
There are two main types of concrete sealers: film-forming sealers and penetrating sealers. Film-forming sealers include acrylics, epoxies, and urethanes that form a coating on the surface of the concrete. Film-forming sealers, especially acrylics, are more susceptible to wear and will need to be reapplied frequently.
Should you seal old concrete?
A: Yes! Old concrete can be sealed for the first time or resealed if it has been previously sealed with a concrete sealer. You want to make sure all mold, mildew, efflorescence, rust, grease and oil are removed from the concrete before sealing as you do not want to seal these elements into the concrete.
How do you clean a brush after using Thompson’s water Seal?
After waiting the recommended time, use a synthetic, stiff bristled brush to scrub the surface. Then use a garden hose or pressure washer to rinse away the residue.
Can I apply concrete sealer with sprayer?
If you are applying a penetrating concrete sealer you can use either a garden variety pump-up sprayer such as the Echo 2 Gallon Sprayer found at homedepot.com retailing for $29.97 or a paint roller or even a paint brush.
