It’s no secret that concrete is the backbone of commercial infrastructure. From foundations and walls to bridges and tunnels and so many other objects, concrete offers a durable, versatile and cost-effective material option. But even the toughest materials need protection, and here at Potrykus Construction we’ve seen firsthand how sealing your commercial concrete surfaces can dramatically extend their lifespan, enhance their appearance and even reduce the long-term costs of maintenance. Whatever business or project you’re working on, sealing your concrete is a smart investment with plenty of benefits, which is exactly what we’re going to highlight today.
[ READ MORE: The Timeline for a Commercial Concrete Project in Wisconsin ]
Enhanced Durability & Longevity
Concrete is a porous material, which means that it will actively absorb liquids and any other contaminants — such as rainwater, snowmelt, oil, other chemicals, etc. This is a terrible drawback as it can lead to structural degradation over time, especially with the freeze-thaw climate here in Wisconsin. Any moisture trapped in the concrete can expand and contract, which leads to cracking, spalling and surface erosion.
You can counteract concrete’s porous nature by sealing it, which creates a protective barrier capable of preventing any and all of these elements from penetrating the surface. But it doesn’t just reduce the risk of this internal damage, it will also help your concrete withstand heavy traffic, machinery, environmental stressors and so much more. Under many different situations, sealed concrete simply lasts longer and performs better.
Moisture & Stain Resistance
Building off the fact that sealing your porous concrete prevents liquid penetration, this doesn’t only enhance its durability and longevity but also provides overall resistance to moisture and stains. Spills are almost a guarantee in commercial spaces, from coffee in a lobby to hydraulic fluid in a service bay, the possibilities are endless. But sealing your concrete can ensure that those liquids are repelled before they can seep in, not only making cleanup easier but preventing stains and drastically reducing the risk of mold, mildew and similar water-related deterioration.
Easier Maintenance & Cleaning
Speaking of making cleanup easier, liquids aren’t the only thing likely to be spilled on your concrete surface. Dirt, dust, grime, whatever attacks your surfaces can much more easily be cleaned up on a sealed surface as the concrete’s pores can no longer trap those particles. This enhanced smoothness not only makes routine sweeping and mopping more effective, but it also reduces the need for harsh chemicals or frequent deep cleaning, which means you’re going to save on both time and money.
Improved Aesthetics
We’ve covered many of the practical benefits of sealing your concrete, but on top of protecting your surfaces it can also greatly improve its aesthetics. Different kinds of sealers can change the look of your surface, such as giving it a glossy or matte finish, or even just deepening the natural color of the concrete itself. This can ultimately elevate the visual appeal of your space, creating a more inviting atmosphere for customers and employees alike. This is especially true of creating decorative concrete surfaces, as the sealer can help preserve the design and prevent fading.
Safety Benefits
Of course we need to touch on safety, an important thing to consider whenever discussing concrete surfaces. If your surface is in a work environment, you might be pleased to learn that there are many sealers out there delivering slip-resistant finishes. This can help you protect your team while simultaneously minimizing your liability. Plus, the fact that sealing helps to prevent surface degradation means your surfaces will be much less likely to develop tripping hazards like uneven flooring.
Seal Your Commercial Concrete Surface with Potrykus Construction
As you can see, there are many benefits to sealing your commercial concrete surfaces, and we didn’t even mention the reduction in long-term costs. While you’ll have to make a larger upfront investment in your concrete project, the maintenance and cleaning costs will drop significantly, meaning you’ll save on costs over time. Our expert staff can make sure you find the right sealer to suit your specific needs and get your concrete sealed — whether you’re starting a new project or realizing that you should’ve sealed it from the beginning. It’s never too late! Just give us a call to discuss your project, we can’t wait to hear from you!