The Ultimate Guide to Resealing Concrete

Resealing a stamped concrete patio restores color and surface protection.

Many owners of newly installed concrete patios, driveways, or walkways are advised by their contractors to reseal their concrete regularly to keep it looking its best. What they may not be told are the basics, such as how frequently concrete needs to be resealed, why it's important, and whether it's a task they can handle on their own.

Whether your concrete is stamped, stained, or plain, resealing is essential to maintaining a protective barrier that makes the concrete easier to clean and preserves its appearance and longevity. Even if your concrete was sealed when it was installed, that barrier gradually wears away over time and will need to be replaced.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn more about the benefits of sealing your concrete, how to determine when your concrete is ready for resealing, and get advice on choosing the right type of sealer for the job. And if you plan to do the resealing work yourself, we also give you tips for how to apply sealer properly to ensure that your concrete looks great for many years to come.

What are the benefits of sealing concrete?

Like wood, concrete is porous and can be vulnerable to moisture-related damage and deterioration over time. Keeping your concrete sealed creates a barrier that prevents water from seeping into the surface, reducing the risk of cracks, spalling, pitting, and freeze-thaw damage. Sealing concrete also helps minimize the potential damage caused by exposure to deicers and other caustic chemicals.

In addition to providing protection, sealing helps preserve the appearance of your concrete by repelling oil, grease, and other substances that can cause permanent discoloration. For stamped, stained, or colored concrete, resealing prevents fading and helps maintain the concrete's original color and decorative finish. Furthermore, sealed concrete is easier to maintain because the sealer fills the pores to create a non-porous surface that prevents dirt and stains from penetrating.

How often should you reseal concrete?

Most concrete contractors recommend resealing concrete every 2 to 5 years. However, the time span can vary depending on factors such as the type of sealer used, the amount of foot or vehicle traffic, and environmental conditions. For instance, concrete exposed to harsh weather, frequent freezing and thawing, and heavy foot or vehicle traffic will require resealing more often than concrete in a mild climate with minimal traffic.

Signs your concrete needs resealing:

• Fading or discoloration
• Water no longer beads up and soaks into the surface
• Visible wear such as scratches or rough patches
• Stains from oil, grease, or other substances become harder to remove
• Loss of shine or gloss on previously sealed surfaces

Can I reseal concrete myself?

With the right tools and a bit of know-how, resealing can be a manageable DIY project. The keys to achieving a uniform and aesthetically pleasing finish are proper surface preparation and applying the sealer in thin, even coats to prevent pooling and streaking. (See these basic steps for applying concrete sealer properly.)

Although it may be more expensive, the best way to ensure a flawless finish is to hire a professional to do the job. An expert will know how to choose the right sealer for your specific concrete surface and have the skills to apply it correctly for long-lasting results.

Deep Penetrating Sealer RadonSeal - Waterproofs & strengthens.

Decorative Sealers Reactive and penetrating formulas in various levels of gloss.

Water Repellent Penetrating Sealer for driveways, parking structures, plazas, walkways & more.

Penetrating Concrete Sealer $179.95 (5 gal.)

Clear-Seal by Increte Systems Seals and protects exterior surfaces.

Gem-Guard SB Penetrating sealer that protects against salt damage

Can you seal concrete too much?

Yes! Applying too many layers of sealer is a common mistake made by DIYers, and it can lead to a number of potential problems.

Excessive sealer buildup can trap moisture within the concrete, causing bubbling, blistering, or a cloudy appearance on the surface. An overly thick layer of sealer can also crack and peel over time because it doesn't bond properly with the concrete surface.

To avoid these issues, it's important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for sealer application, including recommended coverage rates and drying times between coats.

What the Pros Say: Less Is More

"The most common application problem is applying too much sealer at once. Remember the phrase ‘thin to win’. Sealers are designed to perform best at a specific thickness."

— Chris Sullivan, concrete troubleshooting expert

How do I choose the right sealer for the job?

Choosing the right sealer for your concrete depends on several factors, including the type of concrete surface, the environment it will be exposed to, and the desired finish.

In general, acrylic sealer is best for outdoor decorative stamped or stained concrete because it allows moisture vapor in the slab to escape while enhancing the color and offering UV protection. However, it typically requires more frequent application than other types of sealants. For longer-lasting protection, penetrating sealers are a good choice. These sealers soak into the concrete and form a barrier against water, chemicals, and stains while maintaining the surface's natural appearance.

Keep in mind that when resealing concrete, it’s best to use the same type of sealer that was used initially. If you plan to switch to a different brand of sealer, or from a solvent-based sealer to a water-based product, most manufacturers advise removing all traces of the previously used sealer, since the products may not be compatible.

Get more tips for buying concrete sealer.

What the Pros Say: Ease of Application Matters

"Ease of application is a very important consideration. Most acrylic sealers are easy to apply and dry quick, while other sealers take a long time to apply and the contractor should be skilled when putting it down."

— Bob Harris, Decorative Concrete Institute, Temple, Ga.

Can you reseal over sealed concrete?

Absolutely! Resealing over sealed concrete is possible and can help maintain its appearance and protection. However, it is essential to use a sealer that’s compatible with the existing one.

How much does resealing cost?

The cost of resealing concrete can vary considerably depending on the size of the area, the type of sealer used, and whether you hire a professional or do the work yourself. On average, you can expect to pay around $1.50 to over $3.50 per square foot. The costs of cleaning and preparing the surface should also be considered.

While the costs of resealing concrete can accumulate over time, it is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of your concrete and minimize repair expenses. Resealing also helps maintain the beauty of your concrete, which provides additional value by enhancing the overall curb appeal of your home.

Related Resources:

Driveway Sealer for Concrete: How to Apply and Buying Tips
Sealing Stamped Concrete