Sealer is part of the finish
Decorative concrete has its own maintenance needs. The original finish, the sealer system, weather exposure, traffic, and winter care all affect what is appropriate.
A sealer can influence colour depth, sheen, and how readily a surface sheds water. That is why it should be treated as part of the finish specification rather than a generic afterthought.
Stamped concrete, exposed aggregate, and coloured concrete can each require different product and maintenance decisions.
Ask project-specific questions
Ask about the recommended product and timing for your exact surface instead of applying a universal schedule. A product that suits one finish may not suit another.
It is useful to know whether a surface needs a particular cleaning approach, whether it has slip-resistance considerations, and what signs suggest it is time to reassess the coating.
The best time to get those answers is at handoff, while the project details and care directions are clear.
Protect the surface through winter
Keep the surface free of debris and use care with products that may not be suited to decorative concrete. Winter traction products and metal tools can affect appearance or wear depending on the finish.
Avoid assuming that a loss of shine means a structural issue, or that a new coating is automatically the answer. First identify the finish and the existing sealer.
A practical maintenance routine protects the character you selected and keeps the next care decision informed instead of rushed.