Why Seal a Concrete Driveway?

Find out why you should seal your concrete driveway when it is brand new, before it has had a chance to get stained. Get tips on using a vapor permeable sealer because if you use one that’s too thick, moisture…

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LESLIE: Tom, what do you say we dip into our Money Pit bag of emails so they don’t feel left out and they feel like we’re answering their questions, too?

TOM: OK, what have you got?

LESLIE: Alright, let’s see here. Ken M. writes: “I have a new home with a new concrete driveway and walk. Is concrete sealer recommended to seal the concrete from oil and water? If so, which type of sealer is best for longevity and effectiveness?”

TOM: Well, yes. Actually, since it is brand new, this is a great time to seal that concrete driveway. You know, putting a concrete sealer on does a number of things. One of the conveniences that I like is it makes it a lot easier to sweep and a lot easier to clean because it kind of seals some of the pores.

LESLIE: (overlapping voices) Oh, yeah. And it makes those stains not permanent.

TOM: Yeah, exactly. In terms of what type of sealer, you want to use one that’s vapor permeable. Because if you use one that’s too thick and not vapor permeable, what’ll happen is moisture will still leak in, then it’ll freeze and break off chunks of it. So choose one that’s vapor permeable, put it on when the concrete is new and not stained. And if you’re suffering and afraid of oil leaks, fix the car, will you, Ken? (Leslie chuckles) Because that’s the easiest way to keep your driveway from getting stained. OK?

LESLIE: Plus, it’ll keep you from having to clean up the same mess over and over again.