Have you ever wondered if Flex Seal works on concrete? We’ve all been there, trying to fix a cracked driveway, patio, or walkway, but it seems like no matter what we try, the crack always comes back. That’s why so many of us have turned to Flex Seal, the miracle sealant that claims to fix cracks in concrete. But does it work? This comprehensive guide is here to answer that very question. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of using Flex Seal on concrete, how to apply it, and the best practices for ensuring a successful repair. We’ll also provide a few alternatives that may work better for some repair jobs. So if you’re trying to decide if Flex Seal is the right choice for your concrete repair project, this guide is here to help.
Does Flex Seal Work On Concrete?
Yes, Flex Seal can be used on concrete. It is a great way to seal and waterproof your concrete surfaces. Plus, it can also protect against rust and corrosion.
How To Apply Flex Seal On Concrete
Preparing The Concrete Surface
Before you begin applying Flex Seal on concrete, you’ll need to do a few things to prepare for the process. First, you’ll want to clean the concrete surface so you’re applying the seal to a clean, dust-free surface. You can do this using a power washer or a bucket of water and a broom. If your concrete is particularly dirty or has spills or stains that won’t come off using water, you’ll want to use a concrete cleaner to clean the surface before applying the seal. Next, you’ll want to roughen up the concrete to allow the seal to better stick to the surface. You can do this with a steel brush (or a wire brush if the concrete is particularly smooth). Finally, you’ll want to use a concrete repair sealer to patch any cracks in the concrete.
Choosing The Right Flex Seal Product
There are several different types of Flex Seal available on the market. You can choose from the Original Seal, which is the best seal for concrete, or the High-Performance Seal, which is designed for a smooth surface. You can also choose from a wide variety of color options for each type. When choosing the right seal for your concrete project, you’ll want to make sure you’re selecting the right type of seal and color. For example, if you’re applying the seal to a concrete driveway, you’ll want to select the Original Seal, as the High-Performance Seal isn’t meant for exposed concrete. In addition, you’ll want to consider the surface texture. For example, if your concrete is particularly rough, you may want to select the High-Performance Seal to help the seal better stick to the surface.
Gathering The Right Tools And Supplies
Before you begin applying Flex Seal on concrete, make sure you have everything you need on hand. You’ll want to have an adequate workspace with plenty of room to move around. You’ll also want to have plenty of ventilation and be wearing the appropriate protective gear. Wear gloves, masks, goggles, and long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect your hands and eyes from the seal. Finally, make sure you have the right tools on hand to help you apply the seal properly and efficiently. For starters, you’ll need a concrete scraper or a wide putty knife to remove the old seal from the concrete. You’ll also want to have a wheelbarrow or a bucket to store the seal and materials, as well as a tarp or drop cloth to protect surrounding surfaces. We recommend having at least one wheelbarrow on hand, as you may want to keep one bucket or wheelbarrow for cleaning supplies and one for sealer and materials.
Applying The Primer
Before you begin applying Flex Seal on concrete, you’ll want to apply the primer, which is required to adhere the seal to all surfaces, including concrete. The primer comes in the same can as the seal, so it’s important to keep the can upright to prevent the seal from mixing with the primer. Once the primer and seal are mixed, they can’t be used, so it’s important to keep the two separate. You’ll want to apply the primer using a paintbrush or a roller and then let it dry for at least 24 hours before moving on to the next step.
Applying The Flex Seal Adhesive
After the primer dries completely, you can begin applying the adhesive. You’ll want to start with a clean surface that has been roughened up with a wire brush. You can then apply the seal to the concrete using a squeegee or a trowel, spreading the seal evenly and thoroughly over the area. Once you’ve applied the seal, you can let it dry for between 2 and 24 hours, depending on the temperature and humidity of your environment. Once the seal is dry and you’ve removed any excess seal from the concrete, you can move on to the next step.
Applying The Flex Seal
Now that the seal has dried and you’ve applied it to the concrete, you can begin applying the seal to the concrete. Using a wide putty knife or a roller, you can apply the seal in a single layer, again making sure to spread the seal evenly and thoroughly. Once you’ve applied the seal, you can let it dry for between 2 and 24 hours, depending on the temperature and humidity of your environment. Once the seal is dry and you’ve removed any excess seal from the concrete, you can move on to the next step.
Curing The Flex Seal
Now that you’ve applied the seal and it’s dried, you can begin curing the seal to ensure it’s properly sealed to the surface. While curing the seal, you’ll want to avoid walking or driving on it, which can damage the seal. You can use a tarp or cardboard to create a barrier between people and the seal. You’ll also want to clean up any sealant that drips or spills during the curing process so you don’t get it on surrounding surfaces. You can cure the seal for 24 hours at a minimum and up to 5 days maximum, depending on the temperature and humidity of your environment. You’ll know the seal is cured when it firms up and dries completely.
Maintaining The Flex Seal On Concrete
Once your concrete sealant is cured, you can begin maintaining it. We recommend cleaning the seal once a month, particularly if you’re in an area with high foot traffic. You can do this by pressure-washing the seal, using a mild scrub brush to remove any built-up dirt, or using a commercial-grade sealer remover. You can also apply a sealer protectant to help maintain and protect the seal from wear and tear, extending the life of the seal even further.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The most common issues when applying Flex Seal on concrete are applying it too thickly, not curing it long enough, or applying it in humid conditions. If you’ve applied the seal too thickly, you can scrape off the excess seal with a putty knife, a wire brush, or a scraper. If the seal hasn’t been cured long enough, you can leave it out in the sun for longer to speed up the curing process. If you’ve applied the seal in extremely humid conditions, you can let the seal air-dry after you’ve applied it, then cover it with a tarp or plastic.
Further Considerations For Applying Flex Seal On Concrete
Finally, you’ll want to make sure you’re applying the seal correctly. To ensure the seal is applied correctly, you should read the instructions and tips on the seal’s packaging. You should also follow the 10 steps outlined in this guide, making sure to prepare the surface correctly and apply and cure the seal correctly. If you do these things correctly, you’ll have a much easier time applying the seal on concrete, making the project a breeze!
Pros Of Using Flex Seal On Concrete
1. Quick and Easy Application:
Flex Seal is easy to use and can be applied quickly.
2. Durable and Long-Lasting:
Once applied, Flex Seal will create a durable waterproof seal that will last for years.
3. Protects Against Rust and Corrosion:
Flex Seal can help protect your concrete surfaces from rust and corrosion.
4. Available in Multiple Colors:
You can choose from a variety of colors so you can match the sealant to your existing concrete surface.
Cons Of Using Flex Seal On Concrete
1. Not Suitable for All Repairs:
Flex Seal is not suitable for all types of repairs, such as large cracks or holes in the concrete surface.
2. May Not Adhere to All Surfaces:
Flex Seal may not adhere to all surfaces, such as painted or sealed surfaces, so make sure you test it first before applying it to your project area.
3. May Require Multiple Coats:
Depending on the size of the area you are repairing, you may need to apply multiple coats of Flex Seal for a complete seal.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever wondered if Flex Seal works on concrete, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve discussed the pros and cons of using Flex Seal on concrete, how to apply it, and the best practices for ensuring a successful repair. We’ve also listed some alternatives to Flex Seal if you’ve found yourself rethinking your decision to use it on concrete. Whether you have a cracked driveway, a patio, or a walkway to repair, you’re sure to find the information you’re looking for in this guide.
