Concrete Protective Sealers

The difference between penetrating sealers and coatings

Penetrating Sealers - such as CCS Natural Seal Supreme HV and CCS Streetscape Sealer are silicone based and protect concrete by penetrating into the capillaries of the concrete - rather than lying on the surface. Penetrating sealers repel moisture and at the same time allow the transmission of vapour from within the concrete or structure. Penetrating sealers are used on both floors and vertical walls of concrete buildings. Often a penetrating sealer is applied to vertical concrete walls, to protect them from the ingress of driving rain and airborne salts which can ultimately attack the steel reinforcing contained in the concrete.

Because they don't alter the texture of the concrete, penetrating sealers such as CCS Streetscape Sealer and CCS Stain Block are ideal for horizontal surfaces where slip resistance may be an issue. These two products also contain special fluro polymers and additives which effectively protects the surface from the ingress of water and oil based stains.

Coating Sealers - effectively cover as well as penetrate into the surface of concrete. Coating sealers are usually diluted in solvent, which ultimately helps them to seep into the concrete. The solvent soon evaporates allowing the residual resin to dry anchor into the concrete surface.

Sealers that coat rather than penetrate, generally provide better resistance against abrasion and the ingress of dirt. Many of the 'coating sealers' create a 'wet look'. If the 'wet look' is not desired then the penetrating sealers are the best alternative.