Should you seal your driveway after pressure washing?

Sealing concrete after washing is one of the highest-value maintenance moves a homeowner can make. But only if you do it right.

Unsealed concrete absorbs oil, tire marks, tannin from leaves, and de-icing salt. Once absorbed, those stains are hard to remove. Sealer keeps them on the surface where they can be washed off.

• 24–72 hours after washing (fully dry, no rain in the forecast)
• Air temp between 50°F and 85°F
• No rain expected for 24 hours after application

Middle Tennessee's best sealing weather: mid-April to mid-May, and late September to mid-October.

Two main options for residential driveways:

• Acrylic (water-based): cheaper, low-sheen, needs reapplication every 2–3 years
• Silane/siloxane (penetrating): more expensive but lasts 5–7 years, no wet look

I recommend penetrating sealer for most homes. It doesn't leave a shiny film that gets slippery when wet, and it lasts longer.

DIY: $80–$150 in materials for a typical two-car driveway. Application takes an afternoon. Professional (someone else — I don't currently seal): $0.30–$0.80 per sqft depending on product.

New concrete less than 60 days old — it needs to fully cure first. Wait a full year before sealing new concrete, especially over winter.