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Welcome back to our blog! As you know, we always strive to provide you with information that enriches your understanding of construction materials and improves your ability to get the most life out of our products. Today, our focus is on a product that’s a favorite among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike: the acrylic sealer. While these sealers are celebrated for their aesthetics and durability, it’s important to recognize that several factors can wear down their lifespan. In this blog, we will delve into these factors, arming you with the knowledge to optimize your sealer’s longevity and maintain the aesthetic…
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Concrete Sealers
W. R. MEADOWS VOCOMP SERIES
Unveiling the differences between VOCOMP-20, VOCOMP-25, & VOCOMP-30 W. R. MEADOWS has long been a trusted name in the concrete and construction industry, providing innovative solutions and products designed to meet the needs of professionals worldwide. One of their flagship product lines, the VOCOMP series, offers concrete curing and sealing compounds that are environmentally friendly and compliant with VOC regulations. In this blog, we will delve into the VOCOMP series and specifically compare the VOCOMP-20, VOCOMP-25, and VOCOMP-30, highlighting their unique features and differences. Cure and Seal Products: The VOCOMP Series Overview The VOCOMP series from W. R. MEADOWS features…
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO APPLY ACRYLIC SEALERS: Here’s What You Need to Know
Summer is upon us again, and building owners and businesses alike are getting ready to host outside events and so are thinking about prepping their concrete for protection and aesthetics. Sealing your concrete IS an essential step in maintaining its durability, appearance, and lifespan; however, it’s crucial to choose the right time to complete this task to ensure the sealer’s optimal performance. But which season is really the best time to seal your concrete with an acrylic sealer? Well, let’s dive into that question to find an answer! WHAT IS AN ACRYLIC SEALER? Acrylic sealers are liquid membrane-forming compounds that,…
Why is Your Concrete Blotchy (and How to Fix it)
Have you ever walked past a home with discolored concrete in the driveway? It’s lighter here and darker there, creating a blotchy effect that you know couldn’t have been intentional. Looking at the chaotic design, you can’t help but wonder what went wrong,… and how you can avoid making a similar mistake with your own concrete projects in the future. Concrete discoloration is not a rare event Laying concrete isn’t an exact science, and there are a variety of factors that can contribute to concrete discoloration from the very beginning. These factors include: Variability in concrete mixtures The use of…
How Do I Know If My Concrete Is Ready for a Penetrating Sealer?
Introducing the WATER DROPLET TEST The “water droplet test” is the industry standard for discerning if your concrete is ready for a penetrating sealer. We teach this simple method to distributors, contractors, and homeowners so they can visually identify the status of their concrete seal. Here’s the step-by-step application: STEP #1: Apply a water droplet to your concrete. When you want to know if your concrete needs a penetrating sealer, apply a small droplet of water to your concrete as seen here: STEP #2: Watch and wait. See if the water beads up, or if it absorbs into the…
UNO POWER: Why Should I Use a One-Step Concrete Cure and Penetrating Sealer Product?
You’ve been hearing about this single-step cure and penetrating sealer product on the construction sites for a while now, and you’re probably wondering, “Is this stuff cost-effective? Is it easy to use? What if it doesn’t last? Will my project benefit the most from a single-step cure and penetrating sealer product?” We get it. No one wants to be the guinea pig. That is why we were independent, third-party lab tested before we ever launched PENCURE OTC. PENCURE OTC demonstrated a similar chloride reduction and water absorption reduction rate as a 100% active silane placed on 28-day-old concrete. This blog will take…
LIQUI-HARD
LIQUI-HARD concrete densifier and chemical hardener compound is a proprietary, water-based, low VOC, ready-to-use, clear silicate liquid, formulated with chemically reactive raw materials to harden and dustproof concrete. This waterborne solution, when properly applied, offers substantial improvement in abrasion and chemical resistance and will significantly improve the durability of the concrete surface when compared to untreated concrete. As LIQUI-HARD is applied and penetrates into the concrete surface, a chemical reaction takes place, producing a byproduct that fills in the pores of the concrete. This process produces a substantially denser concrete surface with enhanced durability. In addition to the densifying and…
Sealer Maintenance
You’ve got that nice, beautiful, lustrous concrete floor now protected by a W. R. Meadows curing and sealing compound, but how do you maintain that look? Here’s some tips on proper floor maintenance after the application of our product. The following steps are recommended for proper maintenance of W. R. MEADOWS curing and sealing compounds and concrete sealers. Routine dust mopping, sweeping, vacuuming, etc. This will help remove any dust, dirt, grit, etc., which can dull the appearance of the concrete sealer if left on the surface. Routine damp-mopping with a commercially available, MILD cleaner.* Avoid cleaners that contain ammonia, harsh chemicals,…
CDPH Compliant Sealers
What is a VOC VOC stands for volatile organic compound. VOCs are found in many chemical formulations and exhibit a high degree of volatility. Substances that are classified as volatile tend to readily enter the atmosphere when allowed to vent to the air. VOCs can be flammable and have a variety of potential health issues if improperly handled. What Contains VOC To see a full list of VOC sources, check out this article from American Lung Association. Some of the most predominant products from that list include: paint, paint strippers Varnishes and finishes Caulks and sealants Adhesives Flooring, carpet, pressed…
DECRA-SEAL NATURAL
Description DECRA-SEAL NATURAL is water-based sealer that enhances the natural color and features of decorative concrete, hardscapes, unglazed tiles, concrete pavers, and a variety of porous natural and artificial stone. For more information click the data sheets HERE. Benefits DECRA-SEAL NATURAL is a penetrating water repellent that chemically bonds to the substrate, increasing the service life by providing protection against deterioration or staining. In addition, DECRA-SEAL NATURAL does not create a glossy finish on the surface, instead it preserves the natural look of the substance. It also has a very low VOC which means it is safer for the user…
Choose Decra-Seal W/B to Protect and Enhance Your Decorative Concrete Creations
Decra-Seal W/B from W. R. Meadows is a non-yellowing, high solids, liquid sealer for decorative concrete. The product is clear, transparent, and easy to apply. DECRA-SEAL W/B also offers greatly improved chemical resistance when compared to standard curing and sealing compounds. The product has been formulated to seal and protect decorative colored concrete by producing a hard (yet flexible) clear film. Decra-Seal W/B is designed for various applications, including interior/exterior concrete surfaces, driveways, patios, swimming pool areas, and exposed aggregate, as well as any interior/exterior surface where protection and sealing of concrete is desired. The use of Decra-Seal W/B on…
New DECRA-SEAL Samples Now Available
DECRA-SEAL decorative concrete curing and sealing compound produces a hard yet flexible film designed to seal and protect exterior concrete surfaces such as driveways, patios, swimming pool areas, and exposed aggregate concrete surfaces. This non-yellowing, acrylic-based, high solids liquid curing and sealing compound is clear, transparent, and easy to apply. The permeable film in DECRA-SEAL allows moisture in cured concrete to evaporate. DECRA-SEAL provides a glossy, long-lasting appearance that will not yellow. Recently available is a DECRA-SEAL sample that shows the difference in appearance between untreated concrete and the aesthetically-pleasing sheen that DECRA-SEAL offers. This complimentary sample can be requested…
How to Protect and Beautify Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate allows the natural stone in concrete to be on display, offering a unique, visually appealing texture and a variety of eye-catching colors to appear. As in any concrete construction project, it’s imperative to protect the surface from staining, dusting, wear, and damaging water infiltration. With EXPO-GLOSS from W. R. MEADOWS, exposed aggregate protection can be achieved as well as enhancing the natural beauty of the revealed stone by adding a “wet-look” glossy finish. EXPO-GLOSS is available in clear-transparent and Merrimac brown-transparent to offer a choice in finished appearance. EXPO-GLOSS is equally appropriate for use on old or freshly…
Seal and Enhance the Natural Beauty of Decorative Substrates
DECRA-SEAL NATURAL from W. R. MEADOWS offers a unique water-repellent formulation that also enhances the appearance of the substrate without compromising its natural features with an artificial gloss. Low-VOC DECRA-SEAL NATURAL is a water-based non-film forming waterproofing sealer that penetrates deeply into the substrate surface to help repel water intrusion with a strong chemical bond. DECRA-SEAL NATURAL simultaneously enriches the colors of the application surface to provide a heightened appearance. DECRA-SEAL NATURAL is safe for use on decorative concrete, pavers, unglazed tiles, and a variety of porous natural and artificial stones. DECRA-SEAL NATURAL offers many beneficial features including the reduction…
How to Protect Concrete from the Harsh Elements
Let’s face it, the atmosphere can create impressively extreme climates. When a concrete structure is constantly exposed to the elements, maximum protection is imperative to maintain its integrity. Special caution is often needed for bridge decks, piers, ramps, and other traffic barring and marine structures that must perform well in every environment. PENTREAT 244-100 breathable, water repellent penetrating sealer offers high-performance 100% active saline protection to inhibit water and chloride ion penetration in concrete and masonry structures. This hydrophobic, impregnating sealer helps prevent chloride-induced corrosion of rebar, scaling, spalling, freeze-thaw damage, and other causes of debilitating concrete by acting as…
How to Protect Decorative Concrete
Decorative concrete has become an increasingly popular option in the construction industry, from turning a drab renovation into an eye-catching revival to creating exciting new projects that break visionary boundaries. Decorative concrete can come in many forms, including stamped concrete, acid stains, dyes, and exposed aggregate. Although the varieties of decorative concrete styles vary, it’s important to protect every creative vision. To make sure your decorative concrete project maintains its beauty and remains durable, W. R. MEADOWS offers the DECRA-SEAL series, a line of decorative concrete sealers for premium-grade protection. The DECRA-SEAL line consists of DECRA-SEAL, DECRA-SEAL W/B, and DECRA-SEAL…
How to Enhance and Seal Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate can be a beautiful and cost-effective option as an architectural finish which features the natural color and texture of aggregate, but just like all concrete flatwork, it’s necessary to properly protect the surface to ensure longevity. Both freshly finished and previously exposed aggregate can benefit from the use of EXPO-GLOSS exposed aggregate sealer. EXPO-GLOSS is a transparent, high solids, film-forming, curing, sealing, and dustproofing compound that provides improved surface protection and resistance to staining and wear while enhancing the natural beauty of the exposed stone. Achieve an aesthetically pleasing “wet-look” finish when EXPO-GLOSS is properly applied. EXPO-GLOSS’ breathable…
New from W. R. MEADOWS – DECRA-SEAL NATURAL
New from W. R. MEADOWS comes DECRA-SEAL NATURAL, a low-VOC, water-based sealer that enhances the natural appearance of interior, exterior, horizontal and vertical decorative concrete, pavers, unglazed tiles, and a variety of porous natural and artificial stones. If your project is in need of a tough water repellent sealer that won’t add an artificial-looking shine, DECRA-SEAL NATURAL will do just that. Enhance the appearance of the substrate without compromising its natural features. DECRA-SEAL NATURAL is a non-film forming, penetrating water repellent that chemically bonds to the substrate to help increase the service life. DECRA-SEAL NATURAL offers a long-lasting, non-yellowing finish. …
We’re proud to introduce our new PENTREAT line
Last year, W. R. MEADOWS launched its line of PENTREAT concrete sealing products, including PENTREAT 244-40, PENTREAT 244-40 OTC and PENTREAT 244-100. All three of the products have been received well and are included in many Department of Transportation and Ministry of Transportation specifications. PENTREAT is a reactive, penetrating, silane sealer that inhibits water and chloride ion penetration in concrete and masonry structures. It is also a hydrophobic, impregnating sealer that helps prevent chloride-induced corrosion of rebar, scaling, spalling, freeze-thaw damage, and other causes of debilitating concrete. PENTREAT is designed for use on horizontal, vertical, overhead, new and existing concrete…
New INTRAGUARD Tri-fold Brochure Now Available
Now available is our new sleek and handy tri-fold brochure highlighting how INTRAGUARD seals and protects concrete surfaces. This brochure breaks down the facts and brings to light the key features and benefits of using INTRAGUARD on non-treated concrete surfaces. The INTRAGUARD tri-fold brochure is an easy way to explain the importance of concrete protection and why INGRAGUARD is the optimal product for the task. Even though concrete and masonry is seemingly hard and strong, it is in reality very vulnerable to the effects of weather, traffic and sun damage. INTRAGUARD combats these harmful elements, offering durable, long-lasting concrete and…
Order Our New DECK-O-SHIELD Sample
Newly available from W. R. MEADOWS is a tile sample for our popular DECK-O-SHIELD product. This sample is available for you at no cost and is a great way to view the properties of the product. DECK-O-SHIELD is a ready-to-use, water-based sealer/water repellent for natural stone, concrete, and masonry surfaces. DECK-O-SHIELD is designed for use as a sealer/water repellent on waterfalls in or around swimming pools; the product will limit the penetration of water into structurally sound, crack-free surfaces. The product also can be used as a sealer/water repellent for natural stone decks, walkways, or patios; virtually any area located…
Choose MED-CURE for your concrete curing needs!
For years, MED-CURE has been an important piece in the W. R. MEADOWS line of quality concrete curing products. Contractors have been singing the praises of this product for years. If your business relies on an economical, high-quality concrete curing aid, MED-CURE is the choice for you. MED-CURE concrete curing aid was specially formulated to supplement the W. R. MEADOWS line of curing compounds and provide the contractor with a good, general purpose curing aid for construction applications where economy is of prime importance. It contains no wax, resin, or solvent. As part of our GREEN LINE®, MED-CURE can be…
Protect Concrete with the CS-309-OTC and TIAH OTC Combo
A great flooring system is created with the combination of our CS-309-OTC and TIAH OTC products. CS-309-OTC has been a premier concrete curing and sealing compound for years and our TIAH OTC has recently been reformulated into a protective concrete sealer. This one-two combination of these products can be used on decorative concrete surfaces as well as plain gray. The initial cure with CS-309-OTC and the extended protection and beautification with TIAH OTC sealer creates a durable, sustainable, and eye-pleasing concrete surface. CS-309-OTC acrylic concrete curing and sealing compound is an acrylic polymer solution. In addition to regular concrete, the…
Reintroducing Tiah OTC
W. R. Meadows is proud to announce our reformulation of our popular Tiah® OTC product. Originally, Tiah OTC was a curing-and-sealing compound but now the product is solely focused on being the best concrete sealing compound on the market. Tiah OTC acrylic sealing compound is an acrylic polymer solution that dries to a transparent film, which improves abrasion resistance of concrete. The product is specifically formulated for extended working time and provides a tough, clear film that will not after-yellow. It also provides improved weather and stain resistance, combined with a dustproof sealer. Tiah OTC can be used on driveways,…
Don’t Let Winter Salt Leave You Feeling Salty
Winter salt got you feeling salty? INTRAGUARD is your solution. This water-based, penetrating concrete sealing compound for exterior concrete surfaces is specifically designed to limit the intrusion of moisture and chlorides into concrete surfaces. Its proprietary blend of silane and siloxane penetrates deep into the pores of the concrete to help protect it from scaling caused by deicing salts. We also have a new sell sheet available. You can order print copies or download the PDF here. These sell sheets are a great way to educate and promote our products. You can also request samples here. INTRAGUARD’s clear sealing properties…
Intraguard: The Savior of Salty Concrete
Winter salt got you feeling salty? Have no fear! INTRAGUARD Water-Based, Clear, Penetrating Sealing Compound for Salt Protection has just the penetrating sealing action to protect even your saltiest exterior concrete surfaces. Specifically designed to limit the intrusion of moisture and chlorides into concrete surfaces, this proprietary blend of silane and siloxane penetrates deep into the pores of the concrete to help protect the concrete from scaling caused by deicing salts. INTRAGUARD weatherproofs and protects virtually all exterior concrete surfaces, including concrete driveways, walkways, and parking lots. The product is designed to provide lasting protection from de-icing chemicals and moisture…
Decra-Seal: Yellow is for Bananas, Not Concrete
Having problems with yellowing concrete? Specifically formulated for the decorative concrete market, our DECRA-SEAL is a non-yellowing, acrylic-based, high solids, liquid curing and sealing compound for decorative concrete. The product is clear, transparent, easy to apply, and offers improved resistance to water, alkalis, mild acids, and petroleum spirits. DECRA-SEAL has been formulated to seal and protect decorative colored concrete by producing a hard yet flexible, clear film. We have different formulations to meet all of your decorative concrete needs: Decra-Seal Non-Yellowing Acrylic Curing and Sealing Compound for Decorative Concrete DECRA-SEAL is designed for exterior concrete surfaces, driveways, patios, swimming pool…
Samples of Intraguard Now Available!
We recently introduced Intraguard, a water-based, penetrating concrete sealing compound for exterior concrete surfaces specifically designed to limit the intrusion of moisture and chlorides into concrete surfaces. Its proprietary blend of silane and siloxane penetrates deep into the pores of the concrete to help protect it from scaling caused by deicing salts. The product has met with widespread acclaim throughout the industry, and we just want to make readers aware of this fantastic technology. Intraguard’s clear sealing properties weatherproofs and protects virtually all exterior concrete surfaces, including concrete driveways, walkways, and parking lots. The product is designed to provide lasting…
We’re Proud to be Members of the Concrete Polishing Association of America
The Concrete Polishing Association of America acts as a communication conduit to connect all architect, contractor, engineer, design, distributor, and manufacturing professionals in the concrete polishing industry. The CPAA’s goal is to establish the groundwork as a base for which specifications, standards, and practices can be defined and shared by leaders within the industry from a clear, concise, and technical foundation. The CPAA also strives to lead the industry through non-biased education that emphasizes integrity, accountability, and outstanding craftsmanship to ultimately increase awareness and desire for polished concrete surfaces. We are proud to say that we have been a member of…