Cleaning your concrete is only half the job. Once a driveway, patio, or walkway is professionally pressure washed, applying a concrete sealer locks in that clean look and protects the surface from future damage. I'm Mike Inman with Inman ProWash, and I've been cleaning and sealing concrete in Lexington since 2009. Sealing is one of the smartest things you can do for your concrete — especially in Kentucky.
Here's why sealing matters here: Central Kentucky has freeze-thaw cycles all winter long. Water soaks into porous concrete, freezes overnight, expands, and cracks the surface. Over time, you get spalling, pitting, and crumbling that costs thousands to repair or replace. A quality concrete sealer creates a barrier that repels water, oil, and stains while allowing the concrete to breathe. It also resists UV fading, red clay staining, and makes future cleaning much easier.
My sealing process always starts with a thorough hot water pressure wash — I won't seal dirty concrete because you'd just be locking in the grime. Once the surface is clean and completely dry, I apply the sealer using a commercial sprayer for even coverage, then back-roll it to ensure full penetration. I use professional-grade sealers — not the cheap hardware store products that peel in six months. Depending on your preference, I can apply a natural matte finish that doesn't change the look of your concrete, or a wet-look finish that gives it a slight sheen and deepens the color.
Concrete sealing in Lexington typically runs $200 to $500, which includes the pressure washing. Price depends on total square footage and the type of sealer you choose. Most residential driveways fall in the middle of that range. I provide an exact quote before any work begins.
A properly applied sealer lasts 2 to 4 years depending on traffic and sun exposure. When you consider that a new concrete driveway costs $4,000 to $8,000 or more, sealing every few years is one of the best investments you can make in your property. I carry $2 million in insurance, hold an A+ BBB rating, and have 226 five-star Google reviews from Lexington customers.
Common Questions About Concrete Sealing
How long before I can drive on my sealed driveway? Plan on staying off it for at least 24 hours. Full cure time depends on temperature and humidity, but most sealers are ready for vehicle traffic within 24 to 48 hours. I'll give you specific instructions on job day.
Does sealing make the concrete slippery? Not with the products I use. I add a non-slip additive to sealers applied in areas where traction matters, like pool decks, steps, and sloped driveways. Safety is always part of the plan.
Should I seal new concrete? Yes, but new concrete needs to cure for at least 30 days before sealing. If your concrete was just poured, I'll let you know exactly when it's ready for sealer application.
What's the difference between matte and wet-look sealer? Matte finish is invisible — your concrete looks the same, just protected. Wet-look gives the surface a slight sheen similar to when it's damp and can deepen the color of stamped or colored concrete. Most driveways look great with either option.
