Concrete Sealing Services in North Jersey
Last Updated: December 2025 | By Randy, Owner — 31+ Years Experience
Protect your poured concrete driveways, patios, pool decks, and garage floors from moisture damage, stains, and freeze-thaw cracking. Professional concrete sealing from $1.50/sq ft serving 40+ cities across Essex, Union, Passaic, and Middlesex counties.
What Is Professional Concrete Sealing?
Concrete sealing is the application of a protective coating to poured concrete surfaces that creates a barrier against moisture, chemicals, stains, and UV damage. Unlike unsealed concrete, which is porous and absorbs water and contaminants, sealed concrete repels these damaging elements—extending the life of your investment by 50-100%.
In North Jersey, concrete sealing is essential. Our region experiences 40-50 freeze-thaw cycles annually. When unsealed concrete absorbs water and that water freezes, it expands—creating cracks, spalling (surface flaking), and structural damage. Professional sealing prevents this cycle of deterioration.
Based on over 500 concrete sealing projects we've completed since 1994, properly sealed concrete in North Jersey lasts 25-40 years, while unsealed concrete typically shows significant damage within 5-10 years.
Concrete Sealing vs. Paver Sealing: What's the Difference?
Concrete Sealing (This Page)
- For poured/slab concrete surfaces
- Driveways, patios, pool decks, garage floors
- Stamped and decorative concrete
- Penetrating or topical sealers
Paver Sealing
- For interlocking pavers (brick, stone, concrete units)
- Includes joint sand stabilization
- Different sealer formulations
- See our paver sealing services →
Types of Concrete We Seal
Concrete Driveways
Protect your driveway from oil stains, tire marks, de-icing salt damage, and freeze-thaw cracking. Sealing prevents the most common causes of driveway failure in North Jersey.
Concrete Patios
Enhance and protect your outdoor living space. Sealing prevents staining from grills, planters, and furniture while maintaining a beautiful appearance for years.
Pool Decks
Specialized non-slip sealers protect against pool chemicals, prevent algae growth, and maintain safe walking surfaces. Essential for pool longevity and safety.
Garage Floors
Stop oil, chemicals, and road salt from penetrating your garage floor. Our garage floor sealers make cleanup easy and prevent permanent staining.
Walkways & Sidewalks
Protect high-traffic paths from wear, staining, and winter damage. Sealed walkways are easier to clean and resist de-icing salt damage.
Stamped & Decorative Concrete
Color-enhancing sealers bring out the beauty of stamped patterns while protecting against UV fading and wear. Essential for maintaining decorative concrete.
Benefits of Professional Concrete Sealing
Concrete sealing is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect and extend the life of your concrete surfaces. Here's what professional sealing provides:
| Protection Type | Without Sealer | With Professional Sealer |
|---|---|---|
| Freeze-Thaw Damage | Water penetrates, freezes, causes cracking | Water repelled, no freeze damage |
| Oil & Chemical Stains | Permanent staining within minutes | Stains wipe away easily |
| UV Fading | Color fades, surface chalks | Color preserved for years |
| Expected Lifespan | 15-20 years (with damage) | 30-50 years (well maintained) |
| Maintenance Difficulty | Stains set, hard to clean | Easy cleaning, stain resistant |
| Replacement Cost | $8-$15/sq ft when failed | $1.50-$4/sq ft to reseal |
North Jersey-Specific Benefits
Winter Protection
- • Blocks water before freeze-thaw cycles
- • Resists road salt and de-icer damage
- • Prevents spalling from ice expansion
Year-Round Benefits
- • UV protection during hot summers
- • Prevents mold and mildew growth
- • Resists tree sap and organic staining
Our Professional Concrete Sealing Process
Professional concrete sealing takes 2-3 days from start to finish. Here's our proven 6-step process that ensures lasting protection:
Free On-Site Assessment
We inspect your concrete condition, identify any cracks or damage, measure the area, and discuss your finish preferences (natural, satin, or gloss).
Surface Cleaning
Power wash at 2,500-3,500 PSI to remove dirt, debris, and loose material. Treat oil stains, rust, and efflorescence with specialized cleaners.
Crack & Damage Repair
Fill hairline cracks with concrete crack filler. Patch larger cracks and spalled areas. Allow repairs to cure before sealing.
Drying Period
Allow concrete to dry completely—minimum 24-48 hours. We test moisture levels before proceeding. Sealing wet concrete causes failure.
Sealer Application
Apply sealer in thin, even coats using professional sprayer. Two coats for optimal protection. Back-roll for uniform coverage.
Curing & Handoff
Mark off sealed areas. Provide care instructions. Light foot traffic in 24 hours, vehicles in 48-72 hours. Full cure in 7-14 days.
Concrete Sealing Cost in North Jersey
Concrete sealing costs $1.50-$4 per square foot in North Jersey, depending on concrete condition, sealer type, and project complexity. Here's what to expect:
| Project Type | Typical Size | Price Range | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete Driveway | 400-600 sq ft | $600-$1,600 | Cleaning, minor repairs, 2 coats |
| Patio | 150-300 sq ft | $300-$800 | Cleaning, crack fill, 2 coats |
| Pool Deck | 300-600 sq ft | $800-$2,000 | Non-slip sealer, 2 coats |
| Garage Floor | 200-400 sq ft | $400-$1,200 | Oil stain treatment, 2 coats |
| Walkway/Sidewalk | 100-200 sq ft | $200-$600 | Cleaning, 2 coats |
| Stamped/Decorative | Varies | $2.50-$4/sq ft | Color-enhancing sealer, 2 coats |
Factors That Affect Price
- Concrete condition: More prep work = higher cost
- Sealer type: Penetrating vs topical, finish level
- Project size: Larger areas = lower per sq ft cost
- Accessibility: Easy access reduces labor time
ROI: Sealing vs. Not Sealing
- Sealing cost: $1.50-$4/sq ft every 3-5 years
- Replacement cost: $8-$15/sq ft (if concrete fails)
- Example: 400 sq ft driveway: $800 sealing vs $4,000+ replacement
- Savings: Sealing saves 70-80% vs replacement
Types of Concrete Sealers We Use
We select the right sealer for your specific application, concrete condition, and aesthetic preferences. Here are the two main categories:
Penetrating Sealers
Penetrating sealers absorb into concrete pores, providing invisible protection from within. They don't change appearance and allow concrete to "breathe."
Topical Sealers
Topical sealers form a protective film on the surface, enhancing color and providing a matte, satin, or gloss finish. Great for decorative concrete.
| Feature | Penetrating Sealer | Topical Sealer |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Natural (invisible) | Enhanced (matte to gloss) |
| Durability | 3-5 years | 2-3 years |
| Freeze-Thaw Protection | Excellent | Good |
| Slip Resistance | Excellent | Varies by finish |
| Cost | $1.50-$2.50/sq ft | $2-$4/sq ft |
Concrete Sealing Service Areas
We provide professional concrete sealing services throughout North Jersey, serving 40+ cities across four counties:
Essex County
- Newark
- Orange
- Montclair
- Livingston
- West Orange
- Bloomfield
- + 17 more cities
Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Sealing
How much does concrete sealing cost in North Jersey?
Concrete sealing in North Jersey typically costs $1.50-$4 per square foot. A standard 400 sq ft driveway runs $600-$1,600, while a 200 sq ft patio costs $300-$800. Factors affecting price include concrete condition, sealer type (penetrating vs topical), surface preparation needed, and project accessibility. Stamped or decorative concrete costs $2.50-$4/sq ft due to specialized sealers required. We provide free on-site assessments with detailed written quotes within 24 hours.
How long does concrete sealer last?
Professionally applied concrete sealer lasts 2-5 years depending on sealer type and traffic. Penetrating sealers last 3-5 years and are ideal for driveways and high-traffic areas. Topical sealers last 2-3 years but provide enhanced appearance. Factors affecting longevity include traffic level, sun exposure, North Jersey's freeze-thaw cycles (40-50 per year), and maintenance quality. Resealing every 2-3 years is recommended for optimal protection.
What's the best time to seal concrete in North Jersey?
The best time to seal concrete in North Jersey is late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October). These seasons offer ideal temperatures of 50-75°F, low humidity, and minimal rain. Avoid summer sealing when high heat causes rapid evaporation and poor adhesion. Never seal in winter—temperatures below 50°F prevent proper curing. For new concrete, wait 28-30 days after pouring before sealing.
Should I seal my concrete driveway?
Yes, sealing your concrete driveway is highly recommended in North Jersey. Unsealed concrete absorbs water, which freezes and expands during our 40-50 annual freeze-thaw cycles, causing cracks and spalling. Sealing prevents moisture penetration, protects against oil and chemical stains, reduces UV fading, and extends concrete life by 50-100%. The $600-$1,600 investment in sealing can prevent $3,000-$8,000 in replacement costs.
What's the difference between penetrating and topical concrete sealers?
Penetrating sealers absorb into concrete pores, providing invisible protection that doesn't change appearance. They last 3-5 years, resist freeze-thaw damage, and allow concrete to breathe. Best for driveways and exterior surfaces. Topical sealers form a protective film on the surface, enhancing color with matte, satin, or gloss finishes. They last 2-3 years and are ideal for decorative concrete, patios, and stamped surfaces. For North Jersey winters, we often recommend penetrating sealers for driveways and topical for protected patios.
Can you seal old or damaged concrete?
Yes, we can seal most old concrete, but repairs may be needed first. Minor cracks under 1/4 inch are filled before sealing. Moderate damage requires patching with concrete repair compound. Severe spalling or large cracks may need resurfacing before sealing. We assess every surface and provide honest recommendations—sometimes replacement is more cost-effective than extensive repairs. Sealing healthy older concrete is excellent value, restoring protection and extending life another 10-20 years.
How long before I can walk or drive on sealed concrete?
Light foot traffic: 24 hours after sealing. Vehicle traffic: 48-72 hours minimum, 7 days ideal. Heavy vehicle traffic: 7-14 days for complete cure. North Jersey humidity may extend cure times by 24-48 hours. During curing, avoid dragging objects, parking vehicles, or placing furniture on sealed surfaces. Full cure takes 7-30 days depending on sealer type and weather conditions.
Will sealing make my concrete slippery when wet?
Penetrating sealers maintain original texture and traction—no slip risk. Topical sealers with high-gloss finishes can be slightly more slippery when wet on smooth concrete. For pool decks, walkways, and slopes, we use satin or matte finishes and can add slip-resistant additives. We always recommend appropriate sealers for each application—safety is never compromised for appearance.
Do I need to clean concrete before sealing?
Yes, thorough cleaning is essential for proper sealer adhesion. Our process includes power washing at 2,500-3,500 PSI, treating oil stains with degreasers, removing rust stains with oxalic acid, eliminating efflorescence (white deposits), and allowing 24-48 hours drying time. Sealing over dirt, stains, or moisture causes adhesion failure and hazy appearance. Professional cleaning is included in our sealing service.
How often should concrete be resealed in New Jersey?
In North Jersey, we recommend resealing every 2-3 years for driveways and high-traffic areas, every 3-4 years for patios and walkways, and every 2 years for pool decks. Signs you need resealing: water absorbs instead of beading, color fading, stains penetrating easily, or surface feels rough/chalky. Annual inspection is recommended—we offer free sealer condition checks for existing customers.
Get Your Free Concrete Sealing Quote
Protect your concrete investment with professional sealing. We provide free on-site assessments with detailed written quotes within 24 hours. 31+ years experience, licensed and insured, serving 40+ North Jersey cities.
Related Services
Paver Sealing
For interlocking brick, stone, or concrete pavers. Different process and sealers than poured concrete.
Paver Cleaning & Sealing
Complete cleaning and sealing package for paver surfaces, including joint sand replacement.
Asphalt Sealcoating
For asphalt driveways and parking lots. Different material and process than concrete sealing.