Birdbaths and fountains are frequently constructed out of concrete and should be treated with a concrete sealer in order to presevere their life, prevent cracking, water penetration and organic growth such as mold and mildew. Since concrete birdbaths and fountains are submerged in water, a concrete sealer or concrete coating will help to reduce the porosity while preventing leakage.
How to seal a concrete birdbath or fountain:
- All standing and flowing water must be drained from the birdbath and fountain prior to sealing.
- Concrete must be clean and free of previous sealers and paints.
- The birdbath and fountain must be completely dry before sealing.
- Fill in any cracks with a concrete crack filler where water may be leaking through.
- Use a penetrating concrete sealer or durable concrete coating to seal the birdbath and fountain.
If you are not looking to change the look or appearance of the birdbath or fountain, a penetrating concrete sealer is going to be an excellent choice. The Siloxa-Tek 8510 is the deepest penetrating, highest performing and longest lasting penetrating concrete sealer. Comprised of almost 100% actives, it is able to reduce moisture seepage and prevent mold and mildew growth. This proprietary {silane/siloxane} concrete sealer dries completely clear and three or four wet-on-wet coats are required for optimal protection. Let the Siloxa-Tek 8510 fully cure for at least 24 hours before refilling the birdbath or fountain with water. Once cured the sealer is safe and non-toxic for wildlife and birds.
Apply the Siloxa-Tek 8510 wet-on-wet. What does wet-on-wet mean? Apply the second coat immediately after the first coat while the first coat is still wet. This can range anywhere from 1 to 10 minutes depending on temperature and humidity.
If you are looking to aesthetically enhance the birdbath or fountain with a decorative sheen, or if you are looking to change the color of the birdbath or fountain completely, the Wear-Tek 4400 is the product to use. The Wear-Tek 4400 is a durable coating that will not delaminate, peel or yellow since it is extremely UV resistant. It will also make organic growth easy to clean and will keep water from seeping through the concrete itself. Once cured the coating is safe and non-toxic for wildlife and birds.
The Wear-Tek 4400 is available in a wide variety of standard solid colors and can be perfectly colored matched to a color of your choosing.