What is the coverage rate for sealer when applied to pattern imprinted concrete?

We recommend using as little product as possible in order to produce a uniform, even sheen on top of the paving. As soon as a light sheen has develloped, resist the temptation to continue applying more sealer. If you are using a solvent based sealer, you can put the lid on it, place it in storage and it will still be good to use again in 3 -5 years time when you may want to reseal the surface again.

When it comes to approximating coverage, a standard ‘off the cuff’ answer is between 50 and 75m² per 25ltr drum. The precise coverage will be affected by application method, surface texture, temperature, age and condition of the existing sealed surface. For example, an old, well used area which has not been resealed for 10 years will use more sealer than a newer, lightly used surface that has been maintained every 3 to 5 years. Sealing in cold weather will use more sealer as it takes longer to dry and therefore will soak more into the concrete, leaving less available to achieve a visibly sealed surface. Conversely, an area 3 years old and in good condition, sealed at 20°C will use less sealer.

Whatever type of pattern imprinted surface is being sealed, the less sealer that is used the better, to achieve a resin rich surface. Doing so has the following benefits:

• Saves money by using less sealer.
• Reduces ‘sealer issues’ such as blooming and delamination.
• Prevents an area looking ‘false and plasticy’ from an overly thick layer of sealer on the surface.
• The skid resistance values for sealed PIC have been tested and are fine, hence the reason the product is used on many commercial areas open to the public, such as theme parks. However, an overly sealed area with a thick coating can compromise the skid resistance values for your PIC surface.