Everything you need to know about concrete sealer (concrete impregnation)

A concrete sealer, or concrete impregnation, makes concrete surfaces water and dirt repellent, increases durability and makes the surface easier to keep clean. Below we answer common questions — from drying time and application to the difference between clear and colored sealer products.

1. Fast drying concrete sealer – does an impregnation dry quickly?

There are two main types of sealers: film-forming (e.g. acrylic or epoxy) and penetrating impregnations. Penetrating, water-based impregnations tend to dry relatively quickly on the surface because they penetrate the pores of the concrete and do not lie as a film on the surface. Typical drying times are:

• Surface dryness: often within 1–3 hours depending on temperature and humidity.
• Can be easily loaded: usually after 12–24 hours.
• Full cure/maximum performance: up to 48–72 hours.

Please note that lower temperatures and high humidity will extend the drying time. For industrial floors where rapid restoration of traffic is required, special “same day” film-forming products are available, but they build a surface that may require more preparation.

2. What is meant by "sv21 premium same day concrete sealer" compared to impregnation?

The term "same day" often refers to products that create a surface quickly enough to open to traffic the same day. These are often film-forming and create a surface film that dries quickly. Differences:

• Same day / film formation: fast surface drying, visible finish, may change gloss/appearance, often requires thorough cleaning and priming in some cases.
• Penetrating impregnation (like many water-based sealers): penetrates, does not change the appearance to the same extent, provides permanent water and dirt repellency and increased wear resistance without a visible film.

For industrial floors where durability, slip resistance and dust sealing are a priority, many prefer a penetrating impregnation. Make sure the product specifications are clear if quick opening to traffic is essential.

3. Coloured concrete sealer (e.g. from retailers like Bunnings) – when do you choose coloured sealer?

Colored sealers are used when you want to change or improve the appearance of concrete — for example, for driveways, patios or retail spaces where aesthetics play a big role. Differences to consider:

• Colored sealers are often film-forming or contain pigments; they cover and change the appearance.
• Penetrating impregnations are usually transparent and preserve the natural appearance of the concrete.
• Colored products may require more maintenance cycles (if the film is scratched or torn), while impregnation provides a more maintenance-free, deep-acting treatment.

4. Concrete sealer – how do you apply an impregnation?

The following steps are a general, practical workflow for water-based concrete impregnation:

1. Clean the surface thoroughly: remove oil, grease, dust and loose particles. High pressure washing or mechanical brushing may be necessary.
2. Repair larger cracks and irregularities before treatment.
3. Ensure that the concrete is dry enough for application and that the temperature and humidity are within recommended ranges.
4. Mix the concentrate according to instructions (e.g. 1:4 with water when the product is concentrated) if the product is a concentrate variant.

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Concrete impregnation NS 1L Konc Dilute 1:4 with H20 gives 5L of finished product, just add H2O to the can
Concrete impregnation NS is a water-based impregnation that provides a water-repellent and dirt-repellent surface. It chemically provides a significantly harder, denser surface.
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5. Apply evenly with a low-pressure sprayer, roller or lambswool mop. For penetrating impregnation, one even, flowing coat is usually sufficient; on very porous surfaces, several coats may be required until the surface no longer absorbs.
6. Dry and ventilate the area. Avoid walking on the surface until it has sufficiently cured according to the product instructions.

Tip: Use personal protective equipment, work in sections and always test on a smaller area first.

5. Concrete sealer clear – will the impregnation be completely invisible?

Penetrating water-based impregnations are usually transparent and do not change the color of the concrete to a significant extent. They do not form a visible film but penetrate the material to repel water and dirt and increase wear resistance. If you are looking for a result that preserves the natural appearance of the concrete, a clear impregnation is usually preferable.

Practical recommendation

For warehouses, production halls, garages and other industrial environments where durability, dustproofing and easy cleaning are a priority, a water-based, penetrating impregnation is often the best choice. An example of such a product that is concentrated (1:4) and provides good water and dirt repellency when diluted with water is

.

Final advice

Choose the product type according to your needs: if you want fast opening for traffic and an aesthetic finish, film-forming quick sealers may be suitable. For durable, low-maintenance concrete protection and preserved appearance, penetrating impregnation is recommended. Always read the product sheet for exact mixing ratios, application method and safety precautions.