Sealing Acid Stained Concrete Flooring

There are many types of sealers on the market today, each one with advantages and disadvantages. In choosing a sealer you should decide what is the most important factor for you. Although there are numerous sealers for sealing interior stained concrete flooring on the market today, most sealers fall in one of three categories: acrylics, urethanes, and epoxies.

Acrylics are probably the most popular because of there cost effectiveness, penetrating ability, and breath ability. Although they are not the most durable, acrylic sealers for residential interior stained concrete usually perform just fine.

If a harder or more scratch resistant sealer is required a urethane sealer may be the answer. Urethane sealers come in many forms and provide an abrasion resistant surface and high gloss, but most are not moisture tolerant. This means if you are acid staining a new concrete slab or working below grade a moisture test is required before deciding on a urethane sealer.

If a high-build, high gloss surface is desired, an Epoxy may be the answer. Epoxies provide a thicker, glossier floor than acrylics or urethanes, but like urethanes if moisture is an issue you may have problems. Also, some epoxies require a deeper profile in the concrete surface for the epoxy to adhere.

After the last coat of required sealer is applied a wax, or floor finish may be desired.