Sealing a Concrete Patio: A Step-by-Step Guide with Behr Wet-Look Sealer

Updated at: 28/05/2025

A newly poured concrete patio is a beautiful addition to any home, offering a versatile space for relaxation and entertainment. However, the porous nature of concrete leaves it vulnerable to staining, weathering, and damage from the elements. Protecting your investment and enhancing its aesthetic appeal is crucial, and sealing your concrete patio is the key. A properly sealed patio will not only look better, but it will also be easier to clean and maintain, lasting for years to come. Choosing the right sealant is half the battle, and Behr Wet-Look Sealer offers a durable, attractive finish that’s relatively easy to apply.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process for sealing your concrete patio using Behr Wet-Look Sealer, ensuring a professional-looking result without the hefty price tag of professional installation. Let's get started on transforming your outdoor space with this simple yet effective sealing technique.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Angle grinder with concrete wheel
  • Pressure washer
  • Behr Premium Concrete Brick and Tile Wet-Look Sealer
  • 5-gallon bucket
  • 18-inch rollers
  • 18-inch roller frame
  • Broom handle
  • 18-inch paint tray
  • Painters tape
  • Small roller with handle
Safety Guidelines
  • Always work in a well-ventilated area. Concrete sealers contain solvents that can be harmful if inhaled.
  • Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, eye protection, and a respirator or dust mask, to protect yourself from splashes and fumes.
  • Before applying sealer, thoroughly clean the patio surface to ensure proper adhesion. Oil, grease, and dirt will prevent the sealer from bonding effectively.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Surface Preparation

    • Remove old carpet and adhesive using an angle grinder with a concrete wheel.
    • Fill any cracks in the concrete.
    • Clean the concrete surface thoroughly with a pressure washer and allow it to dry completely.
    Clean the concrete surface thoroughly with a pressure washer and allow it to dry completely.Clean the concrete surface thoroughly with a pressure washer and allow it to dry completely.Clean the concrete surface thoroughly with a pressure washer and allow it to dry completely.
    Surface Preparation

  2. Protecting Surroundings

    • Tape off any areas you don't want to seal (e.g., aluminum trim).
    Tape off any areas you don't want to seal (e.g., aluminum trim).
    Protecting Surroundings

  3. Applying the First Coat

    • Pour the Behr wet-look sealer into a paint tray.
    • Apply the first coat of sealer using an 18-inch roller, ensuring even coverage.
    Apply the first coat of sealer using an 18-inch roller, ensuring even coverage.Apply the first coat of sealer using an 18-inch roller, ensuring even coverage.
    Applying the First Coat

  4. First Coat Drying

    • Allow the first coat to dry completely (at least 24 hours, preferably 72 hours).
    Allow the first coat to dry completely (at least 24 hours, preferably 72 hours).
    First Coat Drying

  5. Applying the Second Coat

    • Apply a second coat of sealer, using the same technique as the first coat. Use a small roller to get the edges.
    Apply a second coat of sealer, using the same technique as the first coat. Use a small roller to get the edges.
    Applying the Second Coat

  6. Second Coat Drying

    • Allow the second coat to dry completely (a couple of days).
    Allow the second coat to dry completely (a couple of days).
    Second Coat Drying

  7. Final Cleanup

    • Remove the painter's tape.
    Remove the painter's tape.
    Final Cleanup

Read more: Fixing Drywall Nail Pops: A Quick and Easy DIY Guide

Tips

  • Ensure the concrete is completely clean before applying sealer to prevent trapping dirt and stains.
  • Shake the sealer well before using.
  • Use a roller with a 1/4 inch nap (or as close as possible).
  • Allow ample drying time between coats for optimal results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Applying sealer in direct sunlight or extreme heat

Reason: The sealer will dry too quickly, leading to uneven application and a patchy finish. It can also affect the sealer's bonding and longevity.
Solution: Always seal your patio on a cool, overcast day, or in the early morning/late evening when the sun is less intense.

2. Using the wrong type of sealer

Reason: Using a sealer not designed for concrete can result in poor adhesion, discoloration, and a shorter lifespan for the seal.
Solution: Ensure you're using a concrete sealer specifically, like Behr Wet-Look Sealer, to guarantee optimal results.

3. Applying too much sealer in one coat

Reason: Excessive sealer can lead to puddling, uneven drying, and a longer curing time, potentially resulting in a sticky or tacky surface.
Solution: Apply thin, even coats according to the manufacturer's instructions, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

FAQs

How long do I need to wait before I can walk on the patio after applying Behr Wet-Look Sealer?
Behr Wet-Look Sealer typically requires 24-48 hours of dry time before light foot traffic. Heavy furniture and vehicles should be avoided for at least 72 hours to allow for complete curing.
How often should I reseal my concrete patio?
The frequency of resealing depends on factors like climate and exposure to the elements. In most climates, resealing every 1-3 years is recommended to maintain protection and the sealer's aesthetic qualities. Observe your patio for signs of wear, such as fading or increased staining, to determine when resealing is necessary.