Flex Seal is a popular product that is used to seal cracks and gaps in a variety of surfaces, including concrete. When cured flex is used for sealing concrete surfaces, it creates a waterproof barrier to prevent moisture from seeping into the joints and causing damage.
While a flex seal is designed to be durable, it can sometimes become detached from its applied surface. If this happens, you may wonder how to remove the flex seal from concrete. Upon curing, it may also prove tough to remove, as it forms a strong bond with the substrate.
There are several methods you can use to remove flex seals from concrete. A commonly used method of scraping off the flex is with mineral spirits and sharp objects. Check out the following information to learn more about removing flex seals from concrete.
How to Remove Cured Flex Seal From Concrete?
Concrete that has been cured with Flex Seal can be accomplished in several ways. The method you use will likely depend on the amount of sealant that needs to be removed and the severity of the situation.
Things You’ll Need:
- Scraping Tool
- Putty knife (Optional)
- Acetone
- Stiff brush
- Abrasive or sandpaper
- Chisel
Also, for safety reasons, you should always wear gloves and a respirator when working with harsh chemicals like acetone. Without further ado, let’s talk about removing concrete cured Flex Seal.
Method 1: Use a Putty Knife or Scraping Tool
If only a small amount of sealant needs to be removed, you can try using a putty knife or another type of scraping tool. Start by gently scraping at the sealant with the putty knife. Apply firm pressure and scrape in the same direction to avoid damaging the concrete.
This will create small perforations that will allow the solvent to penetrate the material and loosen the bond between it and the concrete. When the sealant still won’t come off, you can try using a stiff brush to scrub the area. Sometimes, this will loosen up the sealant enough that you can scrape it off.
Method 2: Use Acetone
Acetone is one of the effective ways to get Flex Seal off the concrete. Acetone is a solvent that will dissolve the Flex Seal, making it easy to remove from concrete. To use this method, start by pouring some acetone into a bowl. Then, using a paintbrush, apply the acetone to the affected area.
An acetone-soaked rag can also be used, and apply the solvent to the sealant. Let the acetone sit on the sealant for a few minutes to give it time to work. After a few minutes, the Flex Seal should start to dissolve, and you will be able to wipe it away with a rag. A scraping tool can also be used to remove the Flex Seal.
You may need to repeat this process a few times to remove all of the Flex Seal, but it should come off relatively easily. Just be sure to let the acetone sit for a few minutes each time in order to allow it to do its work. When you are working with the acetone, make sure you ventilate the area well.
Method 3: Use Abrasive or Sandpaper
If the sealant is still not budging, you can try using an abrasive pad or sandpaper to sand away the top layer of the sealant gently. Abrasive pads or sandpaper can both be used on concrete to remove cured Flex Seal.
Start by wetting the area with a garden hose or pressure washer. This will help to lubricate the surface and make removal easier. Then, scrub firmly with sandpaper or an abrasive pad. The goal is to break up as much of the sealant as possible.
Avoid damaging the concrete by moving the abrasive pad or sandpaper in the same direction. When removing as much sealant as possible, rinse the area with water and allow it to dry completely.
Method 4: Use a Chisel
If you have unsuccessfully tried eliminating concrete cured Flex Seal using the above-mentioned methods, you can try using a chisel. This is a more aggressive method and should only be used as a last resort. When using a chisel, score the sealant with its blade.
Be sure only to score the sealant and not the concrete beneath it. Once you have scored in the sealant, use the chisel to pry up the Flex Seal. You may need to use multiple chisels or a wide chisel to remove larger areas of Flex Seal.
Ensure you don’t damage the concrete surface when removing the Flex Seal. Even stubborn areas of cured Flex Seal should be able to be removed using this method if done correctly.
When Should You Remove Cured Flex Seal From Concrete?
There are some situations where you might need to remove Flex Seal from concrete. Main reasons to consider scraping off cured Flex Seal from concrete include:
Failed Sealant:
One reason is if the sealant has come loose from the concrete surface. If this happens, it can allow moisture to seep into the cracks and joints, which can lead to damage. Reattaching the flex seal may be possible in some cases, but in other cases, you may need to remove it completely and start over.
Change in Color:
A Flex Seal application may need to be removed if the color has changed. If the sealant was originally a different color than the concrete, and it has now changed to match the concrete, removing it may be required. This can happen over time as the sealant cures and starts to blend in with the concrete.
Poor Adhesion:
Flex Seal may also need to be removed from concrete if it does not adhere well. It is also possible for moisture to seep into cracks and joints if the sealant does not bond properly. So the sealant might need to be removed.
Change in Use:
It may be necessary to dismantle Flex Seal from concrete if you plan on changing the use of the surface. For example, if you are going to paint over the sealant or work on your surface differently.
Remodeling:
If you intend to remodel your home, removing Flex Seal from the concrete may be required. When replacing concrete sealer, the old sealant must be removed first. This will ensure that the new sealant can bond properly to the surface.
Why Would You Use Flex Seal for Concrete Projects?
If you’re looking for a product that can help you with your concrete projects, you may want to consider Flex Seal. You can use Flex Seal for a variety of concrete projects, such as:
Sealing Cracks and Joints:
Using Flex Seal, cracks and joints can be sealed on concrete surfaces. This will help to prevent water from seeping through and causing further damage. Also, sealing cracks and joints can help extend the life of your concrete surfaces.
Moisture Protection:
Flex Seal can also be used to protect concrete surfaces from moisture. This can be especially helpful in areas prone to flooding or with a lot of humidity. Just apply a layer of Flex Seal to the surface, and it will help to keep moisture out.
Leak Prevention:
Flex Seal is suitable for preventing leaks on concrete surfaces. This can help extend your concrete’s life and protect it from further damage. Plus, it will also help you save money in the long run by preventing costly repairs.
Smooth Surface:
Concrete can also be created with Flex Seal by smoothing the surface of the concrete. This can help to make it easier to clean and maintain. Also, it will give your concrete surface a much sleeker look.
Protective Coating:
You can use Flex Seal as a protective coating for concrete surfaces. This can help to protect the concrete from staining, fading, and other damage. It is especially useful for outdoor concrete surfaces that are exposed to the elements.
There are many other uses for Flex Seal on concrete surfaces. These are just some of the most popular ones.
How Does Flex Seal Work On Concrete?
Concrete is a versatile building material that can be used for numerous projects, from driveways and sidewalks to patios and porches. Although concrete is a porous material, it is susceptible to damage caused by water, moisture, and air.
A concrete surface can be protected by Flex Seal Liquid by keeping out air, water, and moisture. Flex Seal Liquid also resists mildew, chemicals, and UV rays, so it will keep your concrete looking new for a long time. Flex Seal can be used on concrete surfaces that are both indoors and outdoors.
Flex Seal can be applied to concrete in various ways, including spraying it on, painting it on, or pouring it on. To use Flex Seal spray on concrete, simply clean the surface and apply the Flex Seal Liquid with a brush or roller.
For best results, apply several coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Maintain the look of your concrete surfaces for many years with Flex Seal Liquid.
How Long Does It Take for Flex Seal to Dry On Concrete?
Generally speaking, Flex Seal can take up to 24 to 48 hours to dry completely. You will be able to touch-dry it within 2 to 4 hours. Depending on the thickness of the layer of Flex Seal, the drying time will vary. A thinner layer will dry faster than a thicker one.
Aside from that, the temperature and humidity can influence the drying time of Flex Seal. So if you’re in a hurry, it’s best to apply a thin layer of Flex Seal and wait for it to touch dry before applying additional coats. Once the Flex Seal has touch dried, you can walk on it or use it as you desire. The thing is, it will continue to cure and harden over time.
When completely cured, it will last more than 30 years. Although, it is important to note that Flex Seal will only last as long as the surface it is applied to remains in good condition. If the surface of your concrete begins to deteriorate, flex paste may not be able to provide the same level of protection.
What Color Does Flex Seal Liquid Come In?
One of the great things about Flex Seal is that it comes in various colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. There are several colors of Flex Seal liquid, including white, black, gray, and clear. Clear Flex Seal liquid is perfect for projects where you want the Flex Seal to be invisible.
This white Flex Seal liquid is ideal for projects in which the Flex Seal must blend in with the surface. If you wish to make the Flex Seal stand out from the crowd, black Flex Seal liquid is a perfect choice. Providing a touch of sophistication to projects is the gray Flex Seal liquid.
No matter what color you choose, Flex Seal liquid will dry to a clear finish.
Can You Use Flex Seal On Wet Concrete?
The answer is yes, but it’s important to understand that Flex Seal will always adhere better to a clean, dry surface. If you need to apply Flex Seal to wet concrete in an emergency, be sure to do it as quickly as possible after the concrete has been wetted.
This will help ensure that the sealant adheres properly and doesn’t wash away with the water. Whether you’re fixing a leaky roof or patching up a cracked foundation, Flex Seal is a versatile solution that can help you get the job done right.
Is It Worth Removing Cured Flex Seal From Concrete?
In short, it is worthwhile removing Flex Seal from concrete before applying a new sealer. The reason for this is that any old sealer left on your concrete surface may interfere with the effectiveness of a new sealant once it has been applied.
It’s important to ensure all traces of the old sealer are removed. Otherwise, the new sealant won’t be able to adhere properly to the surface, which can lead to several problems, including having to reseal it more often.
Now that you know how to remove cured Flex Seal from concrete, you can keep your surfaces looking their best. Be sure to follow the above-mentioned methods and use the appropriate tools to remove the sealant to eliminate any unwanted