Can I Do Concrete Cleaning and Resealing Myself, or Should I Hire a Professional?

Sweeping Cleaning Concrete Sidewalk With Wide Broom

Concrete cleaning and resealing is an essential part of maintaining the durability, appearance, and performance of your concrete surfaces over time. By removing dirt, stains, and contaminants, and applying a protective coating, you can extend the life and value of your investment, and avoid costly repairs or replacements down the line.

However, when it comes to concrete cleaning and resealing, one of the most common questions that homeowners and business owners face is whether to do it themselves or hire a professional. While DIY concrete maintenance can be tempting as a way to save money or take control of the process, it’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons before making a decision.

In this article, we’ll explore the key factors and considerations for deciding whether to tackle concrete cleaning and resealing on your own, or enlist the help of a professional contractor. We’ll also provide some tips and best practices for ensuring a successful and safe outcome, no matter which route you choose.

DIY Assessment

The first step in deciding whether to do concrete cleaning and resealing yourself is to assess your own skills, knowledge, and resources. Here are some key factors to consider:

Skill Requirements

Concrete cleaning and resealing is not a simple or straightforward task, and it requires a certain level of skill, experience, and attention to detail to achieve optimal results. Some of the key skills that are needed include:

  • Understanding the different types and conditions of concrete surfaces, and their specific cleaning and sealing requirements.
  • Selecting and using the appropriate cleaning and sealing products and equipment for the job, based on the manufacturer’s guidelines and best practices.
  • Preparing the surface properly, including cleaning, repairing, and drying the concrete before applying any sealers or coatings.
  • Applying the products evenly and consistently, using the right techniques and tools, and avoiding common mistakes like over-application, pooling, or missed spots.
  • Following safety and environmental regulations, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), working in well-ventilated areas, and disposing of waste properly.

If you don’t have experience or training in these areas, or if you’re not confident in your ability to perform these tasks correctly, it may be best to hire a professional who has the expertise and skills to ensure a quality result.

Equipment Needs

Another important factor to consider when assessing your DIY ability is whether you have access to the necessary equipment and supplies for concrete cleaning and resealing. Depending on the size, condition, and type of your surfaces, you may need specialized tools and machines like:

  • Pressure washers or power scrubbers for deep cleaning and stain removal
  • Vacuum cleaners or air blowers for removing dirt, debris, and water from the surface
  • Sprayers, rollers, or brushes for applying sealers and coatings evenly and efficiently
  • Protective gear like gloves, goggles, and respirators for handling chemicals and avoiding exposure
  • Cleaning and etching solutions for preparing the surface and improving sealer adhesion
  • Patching and repair materials for fixing cracks, holes, or other damage before sealing

If you don’t already own or have access to these items, the cost of purchasing or renting them can quickly add up, and may negate any potential savings from doing the job yourself. In addition, using the wrong or inadequate equipment can lead to poor results, wasted products, or even damage to your surfaces.

Time Commitment

Concrete cleaning and resealing can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, especially for larger or more complex surfaces. Depending on the size and condition of your concrete, as well as the products and methods used, the job can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to complete.

Before deciding to tackle the project yourself, it’s important to consider whether you have the time, energy, and patience to devote to the task, and whether it’s worth the opportunity cost of other activities or responsibilities you may have to put on hold.

In addition, it’s important to factor in the drying and curing time for the sealers and coatings, which can range from a few hours to a few days depending on the product and conditions. During this time, the surface may be unusable or have limited access, which can disrupt your daily routines or business operations.

Safety Considerations

Finally, it’s crucial to consider the safety risks and precautions involved in concrete cleaning and resealing, especially when using chemical products and powered equipment. Some of the key safety hazards to be aware of include:

  • Skin and eye irritation or burns from contact with cleaning or etching solutions
  • Inhalation of dust, fumes, or vapors from products or equipment
  • Slips, trips, and falls on wet or slippery surfaces during cleaning or sealing
  • Electrical shocks or fires from improper use or maintenance of powered equipment
  • Environmental contamination from improper storage, handling, or disposal of products

To minimize these risks and ensure a safe working environment, it’s important to read and follow all product labels and safety data sheets (SDS), wear appropriate PPE, work in well-ventilated areas, and keep children and pets away from the work area.

If you’re not comfortable or familiar with these safety protocols, or if you have any health concerns or limitations that may affect your ability to perform the work safely, it may be best to leave the job to a professional who has the training, experience, and insurance to handle it properly.

Professional Service Benefits

If after assessing your DIY ability and considering the potential risks and challenges, you decide that hiring a professional for concrete cleaning and resealing is the best option for you, there are several key benefits to keep in mind. These include:

Expert Knowledge

One of the biggest advantages of hiring a professional concrete cleaner and sealer is their expert knowledge and experience in the field. A reputable and qualified contractor will have a deep understanding of the different types and conditions of concrete surfaces, as well as the latest products, techniques, and best practices for cleaning and sealing them effectively.

They can assess your specific needs and challenges, and recommend the most appropriate and cost-effective solutions for your budget and goals. They can also identify and address any underlying issues or problems with your surfaces, such as structural damage, moisture intrusion, or contamination, that may affect the performance and longevity of the sealers or coatings.

Proper Equipment

Another benefit of hiring a professional is their access to and proficiency with the proper equipment and supplies for the job. A well-equipped contractor will have industrial-grade pressure washers, vacuums, sprayers, and other tools that are designed for heavy-duty cleaning and sealing applications.

They will also have the knowledge and skills to use these tools safely and efficiently, without damaging your surfaces or wasting products. They can cover larger areas in less time, and achieve a more consistent and thorough result than most DIY methods.

In addition, a professional contractor will have the necessary safety gear and protocols in place to protect themselves, your property, and the environment from any potential hazards or accidents.

Quality Assurance

When you hire a professional for concrete cleaning and resealing, you can have greater confidence and peace of mind in the quality and durability of the results. A reputable contractor will use high-quality, proven products and methods that are backed by manufacturer warranties and industry standards.

They will also have a track record of successful projects and satisfied customers, and be willing to provide references, portfolios, and guarantees of their workmanship. If any issues or defects arise during or after the job, a professional contractor will have the resources and responsibility to address and resolve them promptly and fairly.

In contrast, if you do the work yourself and something goes wrong, you may have limited recourse or protection, and may end up spending more time and money to fix the problem than if you had hired a professional in the first place.

Time Efficiency

Finally, hiring a professional for concrete cleaning and resealing can save you a significant amount of time and hassle compared to doing it yourself. A skilled and experienced contractor can typically complete the job faster and more efficiently than a DIY approach, thanks to their specialized equipment, streamlined processes, and team of trained workers.

They can also work around your schedule and minimize any disruptions to your daily life or business operations, by coordinating the job in stages or off-hours, and providing clear communication and updates throughout the process.

By delegating the task to a professional, you can free up your own time and energy for other priorities or activities, and avoid the stress and frustration of a potentially challenging and time-consuming project.

Cost Comparison

Of course, one of the main factors that many homeowners and business owners consider when deciding between DIY and professional concrete cleaning and resealing is the cost. While hiring a contractor may seem more expensive upfront, it’s important to consider the long-term value and potential savings of a professional approach. Here are some key cost considerations to keep in mind:

Equipment and Material Costs

If you choose to do the work yourself, you will need to factor in the cost of purchasing or renting the necessary equipment and supplies, such as pressure washers, sprayers, cleaners, sealers, and safety gear. Depending on the size and complexity of your project, these costs can add up quickly, and may exceed the price of hiring a professional who already has these items on hand.

In addition, if you’re not familiar with the products or methods, you may end up buying more materials than you need, or using them incorrectly, which can lead to waste and additional expenses.

Labor Costs

When you hire a professional for concrete cleaning and resealing, a significant portion of the cost will go towards labor, or the time and expertise of the workers who perform the job. While this may seem like an added expense compared to doing the work yourself, it’s important to consider the value and benefits of professional labor, such as:

  • Faster and more efficient completion of the job
  • Higher quality and more consistent results
  • Reduced risk of mistakes, accidents, or damage
  • Access to specialized skills, knowledge, and equipment
  • Warranty and insurance protection for the work performed

In many cases, the labor costs of a professional contractor can be offset by the time and money saved on equipment, materials, and potential repairs or redos.

Long-Term Value

Another important factor to consider when comparing the costs of DIY and professional concrete cleaning and resealing is the long-term value and performance of the results. A professionally applied sealer or coating can typically last longer, look better, and provide better protection than a DIY job, thanks to the quality of the products and methods used.

This can translate into slower deterioration, less frequent maintenance, and higher property value over time, which can more than justify the initial investment in professional services. In contrast, a poorly done DIY job may require more frequent touch-ups, repairs, or replacements, which can end up costing more in the long run.

To get a true cost comparison between DIY and professional concrete cleaning and resealing, it’s important to consider not just the upfront expenses, but also the potential long-term savings and benefits of each approach, based on your specific needs, goals, and budget.

Risk Factors

In addition to cost, another important consideration when deciding between DIY and professional concrete cleaning and resealing is the potential risks and liabilities involved. Here are some key risk factors to keep in mind:

Safety Hazards

As mentioned earlier, concrete cleaning and resealing can involve a number of safety hazards, such as exposure to chemicals, dust, and fumes, as well as the risk of slips, trips, and falls on wet or slippery surfaces. If you’re not properly trained or equipped to handle these hazards, you may be putting yourself and others at risk of injury or illness.

In contrast, a professional contractor will have the necessary safety protocols, gear, and insurance in place to minimize these risks and protect themselves and your property from any potential accidents or damages.

Quality Issues

Another risk factor to consider is the potential for quality issues or defects in the finished product. If you’re not experienced or skilled in concrete cleaning and sealing, you may end up with a subpar or inconsistent result, such as:

  • Uneven or incomplete coverage of the sealer or coating
  • Streaks, bubbles, or lap marks in the finish
  • Peeling, flaking, or yellowing of the surface over time
  • Inadequate protection against stains, moisture, or wear and tear

These quality issues can not only affect the appearance and performance of your concrete, but also create additional problems or expenses down the line, such as the need for repairs, refinishing, or replacement.

Warranty Concerns

If you choose to do the work yourself, you may also be voiding or limiting any existing warranties or guarantees on your concrete surfaces or products. Many manufacturers and installers require that any cleaning, sealing, or repair work be performed by a certified or approved professional in order to maintain the validity of their warranties.

If you perform the work yourself and something goes wrong, you may be on the hook for any additional costs or damages, without the protection or recourse of a warranty claim.

Future Problems

Finally, it’s important to consider the potential for future problems or issues that may arise from improper or inadequate cleaning and sealing of your concrete surfaces. Some examples of these problems include:

  • Accelerated deterioration or wear of the surface due to lack of protection
  • Increased risk of moisture intrusion, freeze-thaw damage, or chemical attack
  • Difficulty in cleaning or removing stains or contaminants from the surface
  • Incompatibility or failure of future sealers or coatings due to improper preparation or application

By hiring a professional contractor who follows industry best practices and uses high-quality products, you can minimize these risks and ensure a longer-lasting, better-performing, and more sustainable solution for your concrete surfaces.

Decision Criteria

Ultimately, the decision of whether to do concrete cleaning and resealing yourself or hire a professional will depend on your individual circumstances, preferences, and priorities. Here are some key criteria to consider when making your decision:

Project Scope

The size, complexity, and condition of your concrete surfaces will be a major factor in determining the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of a DIY approach. For smaller, simpler projects like a residential driveway or patio, doing the work yourself may be more practical and affordable than hiring a professional.

However, for larger, more complex projects like a commercial parking lot or industrial floor, the time, effort, and resources required may be beyond the scope of most DIY abilities, and professional services may be the better option.

Time Availability

Another important consideration is the amount of time and availability you have to devote to the project. Concrete cleaning and sealing can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, especially for larger or more complex surfaces.

If you have limited time or competing priorities, or if you need the work done quickly or on a specific schedule, hiring a professional may be the more efficient and convenient option. On the other hand, if you have the time and flexibility to tackle the project at your own pace, a DIY approach may be more feasible.

Budget Constraints

Of course, cost is always a major factor in any home improvement or maintenance decision. If you have a limited budget or are looking to save money on the project, doing the work yourself may be the more attractive option, especially if you already have some of the necessary equipment or supplies.

However, it’s important to carefully consider the potential long-term costs and risks of a DIY approach, such as the need for repairs, replacements, or additional products down the line. In some cases, investing in professional services upfront may actually be the more cost-effective choice in the long run.

Project Complexity

Finally, the complexity and difficulty of the project will be a key factor in determining whether a DIY or professional approach is the best fit. If your concrete surfaces have unique challenges or requirements, such as:

  • Severe damage or deterioration that requires repair or resurfacing
  • Intricate or decorative designs that require specialized tools or techniques
  • Exposure to harsh chemicals, heavy traffic, or extreme weather conditions
  • Strict compliance with building codes, safety regulations, or environmental standards

Then hiring a professional contractor with the expertise and resources to handle these complexities may be the safer and more effective option. On the other hand, if your surfaces are in relatively good condition and have straightforward cleaning and sealing needs, a DIY approach may be more manageable and practical.

Worker pressure washing conrete sidewalk to clean it
Worker pressure washing conrete sidewalk to clean it

Frequently Asked Questions

To help you make an informed decision about whether to do concrete cleaning and resealing yourself or hire a professional, here are some answers to common questions and concerns:

What skills are required for DIY concrete cleaning and resealing?

Some of the key skills that are needed for DIY concrete cleaning and resealing include:

  • Knowledge of different types and conditions of concrete surfaces
  • Ability to select and use appropriate cleaning and sealing products and equipment
  • Attention to detail in preparing, applying, and finishing the surfaces
  • Physical stamina and strength to handle heavy equipment and materials
  • Safety awareness and adherence to proper protocols and precautions

If you don’t have experience or training in these areas, it may be best to leave the work to a professional who has the expertise and skills to ensure a quality and safe result.

Can I rent the equipment needed for concrete cleaning and sealing?

Yes, many home improvement stores and rental centers offer pressure washers, sprayers, and other equipment for concrete cleaning and sealing on a daily or weekly basis. However, it’s important to consider the total cost of renting, transporting, and operating the equipment, as well as the potential learning curve and risks involved.

In some cases, the cost and hassle of renting equipment may actually exceed the price of hiring a professional who already has the necessary tools and experience to complete the job efficiently and effectively.

What insurance coverage do I need for DIY concrete cleaning and sealing?

If you choose to do the work yourself, it’s important to check with your homeowner’s or business insurance provider to see if your policy covers any potential accidents, injuries, or damages that may occur during the project.

In some cases, you may need to purchase additional liability or workers’ compensation coverage to protect yourself and your property from any unforeseen events or claims. In contrast, a professional contractor will typically have their own insurance and bonding in place to cover any potential risks or liabilities associated with the work.

How much time should I expect to spend on a DIY concrete cleaning and sealing project compared to hiring a professional?

The amount of time required for a DIY concrete cleaning and sealing project can vary widely depending on the size, condition, and complexity of your surfaces, as well as your own skill level and efficiency. In general, you should expect to spend at least a full day or weekend on a small to medium-sized project, and possibly several days or weeks on a larger or more complex one.

In contrast, a professional contractor can typically complete the same job in a fraction of the time, thanks to their specialized equipment, efficient processes, and team of skilled workers. They can also work around your schedule and minimize any disruptions to your daily routines or business operations.

Will doing the work myself void any existing warranties on my concrete surfaces or products?

In many cases, performing your own cleaning, sealing, or repair work on your concrete surfaces or products may void or limit any existing warranties or guarantees provided by the manufacturer or installer. This is because these warranties often require that any work be performed by a certified or approved professional in order to maintain their validity.

Before starting any DIY project, it’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your warranties, and contact the provider if you have any questions or concerns. If you proceed with the work yourself and something goes wrong, you may be responsible for any additional costs or damages, without the protection or recourse of a warranty claim.

Conclusion

In conclusion, deciding whether to do concrete cleaning and resealing yourself or hire a professional is a complex and multifaceted decision that requires careful consideration of your skills, resources, risks, and goals. While a DIY approach may seem like a cost-effective or empowering option, it’s important to weigh the potential drawbacks and challenges, such as the time commitment, safety hazards, quality issues, and long-term performance.

On the other hand, hiring a professional contractor can provide a range of benefits and advantages, such as expert knowledge, proper equipment, quality assurance, and time efficiency. While the upfront cost may be higher, the long-term value and peace of mind of a professionally done job can often justify the investment.

Ultimately, the best decision for you will depend on your specific circumstances, preferences, and priorities. By carefully assessing your project scope, time availability, budget constraints, and complexity, you can determine whether a DIY or professional approach is the most feasible, cost-effective, and successful option for your concrete cleaning and resealing needs.

If you’re still unsure or have additional questions, it’s always a good idea to consult with a reputable and experienced contractor who can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your unique situation. They can help you understand the costs, benefits, and risks of each option, and guide you towards the best solution for your concrete surfaces.

At Pro Concreters Mackay, we understand the importance of making informed and confident decisions about your concrete cleaning and resealing needs. As a leading provider of professional concrete services in the Mackay region, we have the expertise, equipment, and experience to handle projects of all sizes and complexities, from residential driveways to commercial warehouses.

Our team of certified and skilled technicians follows industry best practices and uses top-quality products to ensure optimal results and long-lasting protection for your concrete surfaces. We also prioritize safety, communication, and customer satisfaction in every job, and stand behind our work with comprehensive warranties and support.

If you’re considering concrete cleaning and resealing for your home or business, we invite you to contact us for a free consultation and estimate. We’ll take the time to assess your specific needs and challenges, and provide honest and transparent advice on the best course of action for your budget and goals. Whether you choose to do the work yourself or hire us for professional services, we’re here to help you make the most of your concrete investment and enjoy beautiful, durable, and functional surfaces for years to come.

For more information about concrete cleaning and resealing, as well as our other concreting services, please visit our website or call us today. We look forward to serving you and exceeding your expectations with our quality, professionalism, and dedication.

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