Concrete Surface Hardeners vs. Sealers: Understanding the Difference

If you’re looking to improve the state of the concrete at your home or business, you have a few different options to choose from that will create different effects. Most people will come across concrete surface hardeners and concrete sealers in their search for a product that will improve the looks and lifespan of their concrete, and while both will make your concrete stronger, they act in different ways and can have their own special effects that will improve the surface both visually and in terms of durability.

So which one will you choose? Hardening or sealing your concrete are two different things, and you’ll want to make sure you choose the right one for your needs. We’re going to discuss how these two products differ, so it’s easy to choose the right one when the time comes.

Let’s discuss!

What Are Concrete Surface Hardeners?

A concrete surface hardener is a powder or chemical mixture used to harden the upper surface of your existing concrete. They are designed to change the strength and durability of your concrete without adding additional bulk, and can be applied either mixed into the concrete when wet or applied over the top of dried concrete.

One of the great things about concrete hardeners is that they can also be used to change the colour of your concrete. From vibrant oranges and reds to cool greens and blues, a coloured concrete hardener is a great way to breathe new life into your concrete and the property it exists on.

For more information about why coloured concrete hardener is so great, check out our blog on the Top 9 Benefits of Using Coloured Concrete Hardener for Your Projects!

How Do Concrete Surface Hardeners Work?

You may have noticed that regular unsealed concrete has a rough and porous feel to it, even if it’s been professionally poured and smoothed. This is because the surface of concrete has many tiny holes in it, formed by water that evaporates and leaves small pockets behind. These pores leave behind a rough surface that is prone to absorbing liquids, staining and sometimes cracking or chipping under pressure.

These pores are how concrete surface hardeners do their job! Applying concrete surface hardener will cause it to penetrate the open pores of your concrete, filling them and hardening the entire surface. Not only will the new surface of your concrete be much harder and more difficult to damage, but it will also no longer absorb water, oil, and other chemicals, making it much easier to clean.

What Kinds Of Surfaces Are Concrete Surface Hardeners Used On?

Concrete surface hardeners, due to their ability to not only harden but also beautify concrete with colour, are often used by homeowners and businesses to make their properties more attractive. 
For your business, you may like to make the entryway, path or outside patio of your shop more colourful to appeal to customers. You can also use coloured concrete hardener, combined with a stencil, to stamp your company’s logo on the floor of your premises. This is great for offices and warehouses that want to liven up the space but still keep it looking professional.

If you own your own home, you can liven up your driveway, garage floor, pool surrounds or garden pathways with coloured concrete hardener. Increase the curb appeal of your home, elevate your entertaining area or just future-proof your home’s concrete floors using plain hardener–either way, you’re committing to longer-lasting, better-looking concrete for your property.

Interested in buying some concrete hardener in Melbourne? Australian Slate-Crete Supplies is delighted to offer high-quality hardener in a wide range of beautiful colours.

What Are Concrete Sealers?

Like a concrete hardener, concrete sealers can be used to protect your concrete from damage and extend its lifespan. They create a smooth, protective coating over your concrete surface which can be shiny or matte depending on the type of sealer you purchase.

They come in two types: Solvent-based concrete sealer and water-based concrete sealer.

• Solvent-based sealers create a high-gloss sheen and bolden the existing colours of your concrete, but are high in VOCs and have a strong odour, making them tricky to apply and prone to giving off a strong, chemical smell when curing indoors.

• Water-based sealers are a more eco-friendly choice, as they have a low odour and won’t impact the environment, should they interact with it. They don’t change the looks of your concrete as much as a solvent-based sealer would, leaving your concrete’s original design mostly untouched.

Explore this blog on The Different Types Of Sealers For Concrete to learn more.

How Do Concrete Sealers Work?

Unlike concrete surface hardeners, which soak into the upper surface of your concrete, concrete sealers form a protective layer over the top of your concrete. This protective shell won’t alter the strength or chemical makeup of your concrete–rather, it creates a shield that takes damage in place of your concrete. 

Concrete sealers can be worn down over time, although a quality seal should still last you around five years before a reapplication is necessary. Keeping your sealed concrete clean will go a long way to improving its lifespan.

What Kinds Of Surfaces Are Concrete Sealers Used On?

Concrete sealers can be used to boost and highlight the natural features of your concrete, so they are great for use on spaces like offices, kitchens and shopping centre floors. They are particularly well-suited for aggregate concrete, as they can provide protection for your aggregate and prevent the pieces from chipping or coming loose.

Their elegant look makes concrete sealers a popular choice in formal areas and workspaces. Keep in mind that concrete sealers can be worn away by heavy foot and vehicle traffic, so you may need to reapply them more often if they’re used in spaces like busy footpaths and driveways.

Australian Slate-Crete Supplies is your best destination for protective concrete sealers in Australia.

Concrete Hardeners VS Sealers At A Glance

Here is a quick visual breakdown of some of the main properties of and differences between concrete surface hardeners and concrete sealers:

Sometimes, you’ll need to clean and strip back concrete before adding hardener or sealer. Check out Australian Slate-Crete Supplies’ range of acid and cleaning chemicals here!

Where Can I Purchase Concrete Hardeners And Sealers?

Are you looking to improve the looks and durability of your concrete surfaces? Whether it’s for your office floor or home driveway, you can find the perfect product at Australian Slate-Crete Supplies! We have been offering our customers the best quality concrete products for over 25 years and are dedicated to ensuring every product we sell is one you can rely on.

If you have any more questions about concrete surface hardeners or sealers, please call us on 03 9408 7722, send us a message online or email our team and we’ll do our best to help you find the perfect product for your needs.

You can find more than just concrete sealers and hardeners here, too! Make sure to check out our huge range of concrete hand tools, site preparation supplies and safety gear so you have everything you need for your concreting project. When you need concrete supplies in Melbourne, turn to Australian Slate-Crete Supplies!