Sealing your concrete every two to three years is necessary for the longevity of your concrete surface. It can protect the concrete from various forms of damage, like water damage, UV rays, dirt, salts and molds. Concrete is a porous substance, meaning it absorbs water easily. When water freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the concrete, causing it to crack, spall and flake.
Concrete is susceptible to damage from the freeze-thaw cycle. In the winter, many people treat their concrete driveways by pouring salt over the snow and ice, which can encourage more damage. This happens because the salts will melt the water, which can then seep into the concrete and refreeze once the temperature becomes too cold for the salt to work. The refreezing water will expand the concrete even more, adding pressure and increasing the chances of cracking.
To tell if your concrete is sealed, pour a cup of water onto it. If the water beads, the concrete is sealed. If the water soaks into the concrete, it’s time to consider getting your concrete sealed.