The #1 Enemy of Concrete: Salt
Concrete is naturally porous, like a hard sponge. In Northeast Ohio, moisture enters these pores, freezes, and expands, causing the surface to pit and spall (flake off). This damage is accelerated by road salts, which lower the freezing point of water and increase the number of freeze-thaw cycles your driveway endures.
At Gaetano Cement Contractors, we don't use the cheap "film-forming" sealers found at big box stores that peel after one season. We apply professional-grade Silane/Siloxane Penetrating Sealers. These penetrate deep into the concrete capillaries, creating a hydrophobic barrier that repels water and chloride ions while allowing the concrete to breathe.
Types of Protection We Offer
Choosing the right sealer depends on the surface and the exposure. We evaluate your property to recommend the correct solution:
| Sealer Type | Best Application | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Penetrating (Silane/Siloxane) | Driveways, Sidewalks, Patios | Invisible protection. Excellent salt & freeze-thaw resistance. Does not change surface appearance. |
| Acrylic (Solvent-Based) | Stamped Concrete, Exposed Aggregate | Enhances color ("wet look"). Provides stain resistance and UV protection. |
| Epoxy / Urethane | Garage Floors, Indoor Areas | Complete chemical proofing against gas, oil, and brake fluid. High-gloss finish. |
Our Application Process
Sealer is only as good as the preparation. Applying sealer over dirty concrete locks in the dirt and prevents proper bonding.
- 1. Deep Cleaning: We use high-pressure surface cleaners to remove dirt, mildew, and biological growth.
- 2. Stain Treatment: We treat oil spots and rust stains with specialized degreasers (results vary based on age of stain).
- 3. Application: Once dry, we flood the surface with the penetrating sealer, ensuring saturation of the pores.
- 4. Clean Up: We ensure no overspray damages your landscaping or garage doors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the penetrating sealer make my driveway shiny?
No. Penetrating sealers soak into the concrete and dry invisible. Your driveway will look exactly the same, but when it rains, water will bead up on the surface instead of soaking in.
How often should I seal my driveway?
We recommend reapplying a high-quality penetrating sealer every 3 to 5 years. However, this depends on the severity of the winters and how much salt your vehicle tracks in.
Do you seal new concrete immediately?
New concrete needs to cure for at least 28 days before applying a penetrating sealer. Applying it too early can trap moisture and interfere with the curing process.