Should You Seal New Concrete? Here’s What You Need to Know

Newly poured concrete looks pristine out of the form—but should you seal it right away? Applying a quality sealer at the right time protects your investment, enhances appearance, and extends the life of your patio, driveway, or walkway. Below, we cover when—and why—you’ll want to seal new concrete, plus best practices and expert tips from TLC: Making It Easy.

Why Seal New Concrete?

• Protect Against Stains
  Fresh concrete is porous, readily absorbing oil, rust, and dirt. A sealer forms a barrier that repels spills and makes cleanup a breeze.

• Prevent Water Damage
  Water infiltration can lead to cracks, spalling, and freeze-thaw damage. Sealing locks out moisture, reducing the risk of costly repairs.

• Enhance Appearance
  Choose a clear, matte, or gloss finish to deepen color and highlight textures—giving new concrete a polished, uniform look.

• Extend Service Life
  Sealed surfaces resist wear from foot and vehicle traffic, helping your concrete maintain structural integrity for years to come.

When to Seal: Let Concrete Cure First

Sealing too soon can trap moisture, leading to blistering or improper adhesion. Follow these guidelines:

1. Allow 28 Days of Cure Time
   Standard concrete reaches full strength and moisture equilibrium in about four weeks. Waiting ensures optimal sealer penetration.

2. Check Moisture Content
   Use a simple plastic-sheet test: tape a 2×2 ft plastic piece to the slab for 24 hours. No visible condensation = ready to seal.

3. Temperature & Weather
   Aim for mild, dry conditions—ideally 50–85°F with no rain in the forecast for 24 hours before and after application.

Choosing the Right Sealer for New Concrete

• Penetrating Sealers
  ­Invisible barrier that soaks into pores without altering surface appearance. Best for freeze-thaw climates.

• Acrylic Sealers
  ­Dries to a clear or glossy film on top. Enhances color and sheen but may require reapplication every 2–3 years.

Step-by-Step: How We Seal New Concrete

1. Surface Prep
   Wash to remove dust, laitance, or residue.

2. Apply Sealer
   Use a roller or low-pressure sprayer for even coverage—working in overlapping passes.

3. Allow to Dry
   Follow product instructions (typically 4–24 hours). Keep foot traffic off until fully cured.

Why TLC: Making It Easy for Your New Concrete

• Local Expertise
  Serving Van Wert, Decatur, Berne, Bluffton, and Fort Wayne since 2005

• Service Tailored to You
  From clear natural finishes to high-gloss acrylics, we recommend the ideal sealer for your project and climate

• Certified Technicians
  Trained in surface prep, moisture testing, and precise application techniques

• Satisfaction Guarantee
  We won’t consider the job done until your new concrete looks—and performs—exactly how you envisioned

Ready to protect that brand-new concrete?
Contact TLC: Making It Easy today for a free estimate and expert advice on sealing your newly poured surfaces.