Can We Varnish a Concrete Pillar?

Why Seal Concrete?

• Reasons for applying a sealant to concrete include protecting it from stains, repelling water, protecting color and imprints if any, and enhancing the appearance by giving the concrete a shiny look. A high-gloss sealant will give the concrete a glossy finish, while a matte sealant lets more of the original color through and won't reflect as much light. Sealants designed for concrete are semi-permeable, able to block substances from penetrating while allowing the concrete to "breathe," which releases any moisture that may become trapped in the porous material.

Pre-Varnish Preparation

• Cleaning the column well will ensure no surface material or debris remains. Wash the concrete pillar with water and a brush to eliminate any dust particles. Use a mild cleanser to remove and stains. Allow any moisture on the concrete column to dry completely. Patch any cracks with a trowel and commercial filler and allow them to dry completely, at least 24 hours. Ensure the conditions for applying the sealant will be ideal, between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit and no rain, if the concrete pillar is outdoors.

Varnish Application

• You will apply the varnish using a paint tray and roller, and a brush for the finer work at the top and bottom of the pillar. Smooth out any drips, puddles and thick brush strokes to leave a thin, even coating. Allow the sealant to dry for two to four hours before applying a second coat. Let the concrete pillar dry completely for 24 hours.

Tips

• Before varnishing an entire concrete column, do a test patch in an inconspicuous location. You'll be able to determine if the finished look is one you want after the test patch dries.

  If a roller brush doesn't appeal to you, look into renting a concrete sealant sprayer.

  Multiple concrete pillars may make hand painting extremely time consuming, and a sprayer can reduce the time the task will take.