All to Know About Concrete Top Coat

Concrete is a popular building material for a lot of reasons, but one downside is that it can be susceptible to staining and fading. A concrete top coat can help to protect your concrete from the elements and keep it looking new for years to come. There are a few things you should know about concrete topcoats before you decide if one is right for your project.

What is a Concrete Top Coat?

A concrete top coat is a clear or pigmented sealer that goes over bare concrete or previously sealed concrete. It penetrates the pores of the concrete to form a barrier against stains, dirt, and water. A top coat can also enhance the color and appearance of concrete with its high-gloss finish.

Why Use a Concrete Top Coat?

There are many reasons why you might want to use a top coat on your concrete:

For one, it can help to protect your concrete from staining and fading.
It can also make cleaning up spills and dirt much easier since it will bead up on the surface instead of being absorbed into the concrete.
If you want to change the color of your concrete or add some extra shine, a top coat can help with that as well.

How to Apply a Concrete Top Coat

Applying a top coat to your concrete is a fairly simple process, but there are a few things you need to do to prepare the surface first:

If your concrete is new, you’ll need to wait at least 28 days for it to cure before applying a top coat.
If your concrete is older, you’ll need to make sure that it’s clean and free of any dirt, dust, oils, or other contaminants that could prevent the top coat from adhering properly.
Once the surface is prepped, you can apply the top coat with a brush, roller, or sprayer. For best results, apply two thin coats instead of one thick coat. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat.

Types of Concrete Top Coat

There are three main types of concrete top coats: acrylic, epoxy, and polyurethane.

Acrylic

Acrylic top coats are the most popular type because they’re durable, easy to apply, and relatively inexpensive.

Epoxy

Epoxy top coats are more expensive than acrylics, but they’re also more durable and resistant to staining and fading.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane top coats are more expensive, but they offer better protection against staining and fading.

No matter which type of top coat you choose, be sure to read the labels carefully to make sure it’s compatible with your concrete surface.

Now that you know all about concrete top coats, you can decide if one is right for your project. If you have any questions about how to apply a top coat or what type of top coat to use, be sure to ask a professional for help.