Concrete Sealers & Sealer Prep

Frequently Asked Questions

• What does sealer prep involve and why does it matter?

  Sealer prep is the process of cleaning, etching, and sealing your concrete surface. Skipping or rushing this stage is the most common reason for sealer failure.

  The prep process typically involves:

  • Clean and Etch — removes surface contamination and opens the pores of the concrete for better sealer penetration
  • Cure Time — sealer should be applied approximately 24 hours after cleaning and etching, though this can vary depending on climate and weather conditions
  • Seal — applied once the surface has fully dried. Our systems are designed to draw into the pores of the concrete while also providing a microscopic topical layer for ultimate protection

  For commercial installations and high-traffic areas, Seal Hair delivers outstanding resistance to stains and scratches and is fully UV-stable, making it unmatched in the market for performance.

  For best results, ensure the concrete is fully cured and polished or sanded to your desired grit before beginning the prep sequence. It is also important to note that exceeding 400–800 grit can cause adhesion issues for the sealer, resulting in a poorly bonded surface that may delaminate over time.

  If you need to prepare your surface before sealing, it’s worth using the right tools and consumables to achieve a consistent finish. Explore our range of polishing and grinding materials to help you achieve the recommended surface profile and ensure optimal sealer performance.

• How often do I need to re-seal a concrete benchtop?

  This depends on the sealer used, the level of traffic the surface receives, and how well it is maintained. As a general guide:

  • Alpha X — in a normal residential kitchen environment, expect to re-seal every 2–4 years, or when water no longer beads on the surface
  • Alpha Concrete Countertop Sealer & XS-327 — similar maintenance schedule; reapply when the surface begins to show signs of absorption
  • Baby Seal wax and Domcrete Concrete Countertop Wax — aftercare and upkeep products applied between full re-seals, typically monthly or bi-monthly, to restore sheen, fill and coat any micro-scratches, and provide an additional protective layer

  Regular maintenance significantly extends the life of your primary sealer coat and keeps your surface looking its best.

• What is the difference between a penetrating and a topical concrete sealer?

  A penetrating sealer is absorbed into the pores of the concrete, protecting from within without changing its appearance. These are common on outdoor or polished concrete floors where a natural, matte look is desired. Because there’s no nano-topical coating, these sealers are more prone to staining and acid etching.

  A topical sealer sits on top of the concrete surface and creates a protective film.

  Hybrid sealers are standard for GFRC benchtops and architectural concrete because they provide superior stain resistance and allow the fabricator to control the sheen level, from matte through satin to semi-gloss. Hybrid systems draw into the pores of the concrete while also providing a microscopic topical layer for protection.

  All concrete sealers in Domcrete’s range are engineered to meet the performance demands of GFRC, ECC, and architectural concrete benchtops and surfaces.

• Can I use a concrete sealer on coloured or pigmented GFRC?

  Yes, and it’s particularly important to do so. Iron oxide pigments and colour oxides used in GFRC mixes are durable, but the surface they sit in remains porous. Without sealing, pigmented concrete is highly susceptible to staining, which can permanently alter the intended colour. For guidance on achieving consistent colour results, explore the pigments and iron oxide range alongside the sealer prep products on this page.