How Long Does It Take a Concrete Sealer to Dry? Insights from a Concrete Contractor in Maywood, Illinois

When installing a new concrete surface at your property, sealing the pavement is the final step in the process. This is a critical step, as it ensures that your surface will last for years. But how long does a concrete sealer take to dry?

That is an important question, and it’s one that we can answer. Below, this concrete contractor in Maywood, Illinois is going to explain everything you’ll need to know about the drying process for a concrete sealer.

How long does it take sealers to dry?

That question is trickier than it seems at first, mainly because there are different types of sealers that can be used on your concrete installation.

First, we must make an important distinction — drying is not the same as reacting. The sealer can dry enough to be walked on between 1 and 3 hours but can take up to 90 days to fully react to the concrete.

So, let us talk about the many types of sealers and their drying times:

• Acrylic: Perhaps the most common sealer available, acrylic sealers are responsible for the “wet look” desired by many Maywood homeowners. These sealers typically dry within 48 hours. They can, however, be walked on after 12 hours if necessary.
• Silane and siliconate: These sealers are meant to prevent water absorption. They control the damage caused by freeze-thaw cycles, making them a good option for areas prone to harsh weather. They help inhibit the growth of mold, mildew, and efflorescence. Unlike acrylic sealers, silane and siliconate sealers will not alter the look of the pavers and will work completely beneath the surface. As a result, they dry and can be walked on safely as soon as 30 minutes after application. However, most concrete contractors in Maywood, Illinois will recommend waiting longer than this for best results.
• Silicate: Silicate sealers are designed to facilitate maintenance. They prevent dust buildup and increase the overall durability of the installation. They are an excellent way to keep balconies and outdoor living spaces clean and dust-free. Furthermore, with higher strength, they are less likely to be damaged by a power wash, which is one of the most effective concrete cleaning methods. They also dry fast — often in less than an hour — but require a long time to fully react with the concrete. It could take up to 90 days for it to fully dry.
• Urethane: Urethane sealers are ideal for interior concrete installations. They shield the concrete from oil and chemicals. There is a huge spectrum of urethane drying times, which is highly dependent on the brand you choose. Most brands will dry in 36 to 48 hours.
• Epoxy: Epoxy is an all-around enhancer and protector for interior concrete projects. It slightly alters the color of the concrete, making it brighter while also increasing its resistance. They can be walked on after about 12 hours but take 48 hours to fully dry.

Factors that influence drying time

The amount of time it takes for a concrete sealer to dry can be affected by two different external factors — temperature and humidity.

To put it simply, the higher the temperature, the more quickly the sealer will dry. It is imperative that the sealer not be applied on days when the temperature is extremely high. Most concrete contractors in Maywood, Illinois will try to find a two-day window where there is no rain in the forecast so that the surface can fully dry.

Hire the professionals

One of the best ways to approach concrete sealing is to hire a concrete contractor in Maywood, Illinois to carry out the task. They can help you determine how long it takes for a concrete sealer to dry and will also help you choose the sealer that will work best for your concrete surface. Most contractors can even do the sealing for you, ensuring that the final product will be of the highest quality.

Looking for the Top-Rated Concrete Contractor in Maywood, Illinois?

Are you hoping to have your concrete surfaces sealed? If so, and if you are looking for the top-rated concrete contractor in Maywood, Illinois, look no further than the professionals at Via Galante Cement Contractors. Contact us today at (773) 589-9893 to request a free estimate.