Seal the surface
Using Clear Shield Advanced Formula Water Base Sealer.
Though you don't have to, we recommend you seal the surface. When using a water base sealer, the concrete needs to be dry, any concrete stain residue needs to be thoroughly neutralized and rinsed well by mopping up or washing off and it needs to be free from dirt.
Rolling on the Sealer
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Do not pour the sealer directly onto the concrete. Remove the pail's lid and dip paint roller, or use a paint pan.
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Apply the sealer with a paint roller in 2 very thin and even coats.
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Allow to dry between coats until clear and no longer sticky. Usually about an hour or two in warm weather and low humidity.
*Use a 1/4" to 3/8" nap roller You can allow your roller to run dry, as you are trying to stretch out the product and apply a very thin and even coat.
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Allow this product to cure for at least 24 to 48 hours before applying wax or traffic 72 hours or more is recommended.
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Minimum application temperature 45 degrees F.
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Avoid applying in extreme heat or direct hot sunlight.
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Clean up tools and spills with warm soapy water before it dries.
Additionally you can apply using an airless sprayer, or spray on with a pump up sprayer and backroll any sprayer marks or heavy areas as you go. Do not allow to puddle.
Avoid over applying as discoloration could occur. Will go on white and then dry clear.
Allow to dry until no longer sticky. Usually an hour or two. Once you can walk on it, apply the second thin and even coat.
Tip. Do each coat in opposite directions. Example: Go North/South on the first coat and go East/West on the second coat.
Tip.The way the concrete looks after you have neutralized and rinsed it, while it is drying down, though still damp, is what it would look like if sealed with Clear Shield Advanced Formula Water Base Sealer.
Tip. Not all surfaces must be sealed if you believe they look better in their natural flat state. Examples would be statuary, retaining walls, and the exterior concrete house slab sides that are exposed. These surfaces require no maintenance. However, if you would like to seal them so as to protect them and bring out the colors more, Clear Shield Advanced has a natural satin finish.
Tip. If your project is indoors. You can enjoy low maintenance, and scuff resistance that lasts for months by using our inexpensive and high traffic Top Shield mop on floor wax, which is not only less slippery than sealer alone, but keeps you from having to reseal as well.
All tools and supplies are available in the Tools and Supplies category, or at your local home improvement store.
