Hey Big AL, i am going to install concrete countertops in a new kitchen, but i am having trouble with wat type of sealer to use. there doesnt seem to be one that doesit all. resist water and stains or heat or acid what is the best overall sealer? this project will be a pour in place and i guess depending on the sealer i use will determine when i apply it. what are your thoughts on urathane and also epoxy? i think the later might be too expensive. i have approximatly 80 sq. ft. also would like a sealer that is easy to apply. your advice will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for asking Big Al this question about epoxy and urethane sealers. If you ask someone that hopes to make a buck or two off you , they will sing the praises of their products and tell you how many satisfied customers they have.
Just yesterday the guys from Alpha Stone Concrete were down in Manhattan installing a concrete sink. To our surprise, there was another concrete countertop specialist at the job site repairing the countertops in the kitchen. These countertops were sealed with epoxy and urethane and had many scratches. We learned from our many experiments with these types of sealers that they often peel and tear away from the concrete over time. Surfaces with a ground finish often fare better than others.
Concrete is a naturally porous material. To make the surface repel moisture and stains, we add a coating of sealer that is usually some form of plastic. The trick is to have a product that does a good job at sealing without making the concrete look like a big chunk of plastic. Another concern is that as the concrete continues to cure over the years it may form deposits on the surface of the concrete. These can become trapped under a sealer
So, when Big Al thinks sealer, he thinks long term wear and repair. There is no silver bullet when it comes to concrete sealer for countertops. I suggest a sealer that is easy to apply and reapply as necessary. It may not seal as well as some of the other epoxy and urethane sealers but, you may find that it as better choice in the long term.
Here is a link to some information on the sealer that the guys at Alpha Stone Concrete use. http://www.concretenetwork.com/products-sealer/solution-library/pro-seal...
