How Much Does It Cost to Seal a Concrete Driveway?
The average cost to seal a 1,000-square-foot concrete area is about $1,950, though most people spend between $1,300 and $9,100. Concrete is one of the most durable materials you can have on your property. Whether it’s in your basement or on your driveway, applying a layer of sealer helps preserve its appearance and makes it more resistant to the elements.
Cost to Seal Concrete per Square Foot
Sealing new concrete typically costs between $1.11 and $9.10 per square foot, with an average of around $1.95 per square foot. The final price depends on factors such as the type of sealant used, the size of the area, and the location. Keep in mind that for smaller areas, a professional concrete sealer might charge a flat fee, regardless of the job’s square footage.
Get a Quick
Size (Square Feet) | Average Cost |
50 | $58 – $455 |
100 | $111 – $910 |
250 | $280 – $2,275 |
500 | $553 – $4,550 |
1,000 | $1,105 – $9,100 |
“When sealing concrete that is at least a year old, you need to factor in the cost of cleaning and properly preparing the surface,” says Expert Review Board member Matt DiBara of DiBara Masonry. “This preparation can involve removing adjacent furniture, power washing, a light acid wash and neutralizing, and protecting windows and doors with tape and plastic.”
DiBara notes that while the exact process varies depending on the condition of the concrete, it typically costs between $1 and $1.75 per square foot for older concrete areas that will benefit from a fresh coat of sealer.
Concrete Sealing Cost Factors
When sealing concrete, several factors can affect the overall cost beyond just the size of the area. It’s important to account for any necessary concrete repairs before sealing, as these will increase the total project cost.
Sealing Type
The type of sealer you choose significantly impacts the cost. There are various sealers available, with some being more affordable than others. Water-based sealers tend to be less expensive, while oil-based ones can cost more. For instance, acrylic sealers are generally cheaper than epoxy-based sealers, with prices now ranging from $21 to $65 per gallon.
Most concrete sealers are versatile, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and can be applied to vertical and horizontal surfaces. Typically, one gallon of sealer covers about 150 to 300 square feet.
Sealer Type | Average Cost per Square Foot | Best For |
Acrylic | $1.11 – $1.50 | Affordability and use both indoors and outdoors |
Epoxy | $3.90 – $9.10 | High-quality indoor sealing |
Polyurethane | $1.24 – $1.43 | Areas where the temperature fluctuates |
Labor Cost to Seal Concrete
If you hire a local driveway contractor, you can expect to pay around $1.25 to $1.75 per square foot, plus any additional costs for repairs. The total cost may vary depending on the type of sealer you choose, the location of the concrete, and the size of the area to be sealed. For smaller areas, the cost per square foot might be higher due to a minimum fee charged by the contractor.
Location
The location of your concrete plays a significant role in determining the type of sealer needed and the number of coats required. Indoor sealers differ from those needed for outdoor surfaces. The preparation and potential damage also depend on the concrete’s use.
For instance, garages often require an epoxy sealer to provide a waterproof finish. The cost for this type of sealer ranges from $3 to $7 per square foot, depending on local garage floor coating contractors’ rates.
Here’s a breakdown of the best sealers for various concrete locations and their associated costs:
Location | Type of Sealer | Average Cost per Square Foot |
Basement | Epoxy | $3.90 – $9.10 |
Garage | Epoxy | $3.90 – $9.10 |
Driveway | Acrylic | $1.11 – $1.50 |
Walkways, sidewalks, and steps | Polyurethane | $1.24 – $1.43 |
Patio | Polyurethane | $1.24 – $1.43 |
Countertops | Epoxy or Polyurethane | $1.24 – $9.10 |
Floors | Epoxy | $3.90 – $9.10 |
Repairs and Cleaning
Repairs
Small DIY fixes, such as filling normal concrete cracks, are relatively inexpensive and will only cost you the price of a tube of filler, typically around $10 to $15. However, if your concrete requires resurfacing due to significant damage or wear, the cost can be substantial, averaging about $60 per square foot. Resurfacing involves cleaning the old surface, applying a new layer of concrete, and ensuring it bonds properly to the old surface. This process can extend the life of your concrete and provide a fresh, smooth appearance. Once your concrete is in tip-top shape, be sure you know how to clean it properly before adding the sealer, as a clean surface ensures better adhesion and a more durable seal.
Removing Existing Concrete Sealant
Before you can apply a new layer of sealant, it’s crucial to remove any existing sealant to ensure proper adhesion and effectiveness of the new sealant. The cost to remove the existing sealant depends on the type that was previously used. For example, removing an acrylic sealant is generally easier and cheaper compared to removing a more stubborn epoxy or polyurethane sealant. On average, this process costs between $1 and $3 per square foot. The method of removal can involve chemical strippers, grinding, or sandblasting, each adding to the overall expense. Proper removal is essential to avoid peeling and ensure the new sealant performs optimally.
Number of Coats
The number of coats of sealant required for your concrete depends on several factors, including the type of finish you desire, the location of the concrete, and its daily usage. High-traffic areas or surfaces exposed to harsh weather conditions may need more than the standard two coats for adequate protection. Each additional coat increases the base price for both materials and labor. For instance, while two coats might suffice for a basement floor, a driveway exposed to the elements might need three or more coats to ensure durability. Each coat adds to the overall cost, typically around $0.85 to $1.50 per square foot per coat, but it significantly enhances the longevity and performance of the sealed concrete.
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Cost of Sealing Concrete Yourself
Sealing concrete yourself is the most budget-friendly option, with concrete sealers costing between $0.13 and $0.98 per square foot. However, it’s a time-consuming process that involves significant preparation. Here’s a breakdown of the materials you’ll need and their average costs:
Materials Needed for DIY Concrete Sealing | Average Cost |
Concrete Sealer | $130 |
Long-Handled Brush | $20 |
Paintbrush | $7 |
Paint Roller | $40 |
Paint Sprayer | $65 |
Pressure Washer | $170 |
Squeegee | $13 |
Trowel | $20 |
While DIY sealing can save money, it requires a lot of effort and precision. Mistakes like choosing the wrong sealant or not allowing it to dry properly can compromise the results. This is particularly important if you live in a humid area or one with frequent rain, as moisture can affect the seal.
If you prefer to avoid the hassle and potential pitfalls, hiring a local concrete contractor is a good option. Professionals will ensure the job is done correctly, especially in challenging conditions. The cost for professional sealing typically ranges from $1.63 to $2.28 per square foot.
Cost of Common Concrete Sealing Add-Ons
Sealing concrete not only protects it but also enhances its appearance. Here are some popular add-ons that can improve the look of sealed concrete:
Stain: Adding a stain can give your concrete floors a vibrant color and glossy finish. On average, staining concrete costs between $2.60 and $7.80 per square foot.
Polish: Polishing concrete adds a high-gloss finish, making the floors look sleek and sophisticated. On average, polished concrete costs between $3.90 and $10.40 per square foot.
Stencils: Using stencils can create unique patterns and designs on your concrete floors. Both stock and custom-designed stencils are available, and the cost varies based on the complexity. Stenciling concrete typically costs between $11.70 and $26 per square foot.
How to Save Money on Concrete Sealing Costs?
Sealing your concrete can help prevent costly repairs in the future. Here are some tips to reduce the cost of the sealing process itself:
- Prep the Area Yourself: Clear out the area and clean your concrete before the contractor arrives. This can save on labor costs.
- Choose the Right Sealer: Select the appropriate sealer for your specific type of concrete and its location. This ensures better protection and longevity.
- Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions on the sealer, especially regarding drying time between coats. Proper application can prevent the need for redoing the job.
- Seal Multiple Areas at Once: If you have several areas that need sealing, do them all at once. Buying materials in bulk can reduce costs and lower overall expenses.
- DIY Minor Repairs: Remove stains and fix small cracks yourself before hiring a professional. This can significantly cut down on the overall cost of the project.
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Conclusion
The cost to seal a 1,000-square-foot concrete area typically averages around $1,950, though expenses can range from $1,300 to $9,100. Concrete, whether in your basement or driveway, is highly durable, and applying a sealer helps maintain its appearance and resilience against the elements.
When sealing new concrete, costs range from $1.11 to $9.10 per square foot, depending on factors like sealer type, area size, and location. Additional costs include surface preparation for older concrete and the number of sealant coats required. DIY sealing can save money, but hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly, especially in challenging conditions. Add-ons like staining, polishing, and stenciling can further enhance the appearance of your concrete. By prepping the area yourself, choosing the right sealer, and tackling minor repairs, you can reduce overall sealing costs.
FAQs
The average cost to seal a 1,000-square-foot concrete area is about $1,950. Most people spend between $1,300 and $9,100. Sealing helps preserve the appearance and resilience of concrete against the elements.
Sealing new concrete typically costs between $1.11 and $9.10 per square foot, with an average of around $1.95 per square foot. The final price depends on the type of sealant used, the size of the area, and the location. For smaller areas, a professional concrete sealer might charge a flat fee.
According to Matt DiBara of DiBara Masonry, sealing concrete that is at least a year old involves cleaning and preparation, which can include removing furniture, power washing, light acid wash, neutralizing, and protecting areas with tape and plastic. This process costs between $1 and $1.75 per square foot.
Several factors can impact the cost of sealing concrete beyond just the area size, including necessary repairs, the type of sealer used, and the location.
Hiring a local driveway contractor can cost around $1.25 to $1.75 per square foot, plus any additional repair costs. The total cost varies based on the type of sealer, the concrete location, and the area size. Smaller areas may have higher costs per square foot due to minimum fees.
The location of your concrete affects the type of sealer needed and the number of coats required. Indoor sealers differ from outdoor ones. For example, garages often need an epoxy sealer costing $3 to $7 per square foot.
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Process To Get It Cost to Seal a Concrete Driveway Estimate Report
Here I am going to share some steps to get it cost to seal a concrete driveway estimate report.
