Concrete is **crazy tough** and forever-lasting, perfect for floors and walls. But, it’s like a sponge that gobbles up stains and liquids. The trick? **Concrete sealers**. These sealers work like a magic shield, keeping water, stains, and nasty stuff from seeping in.
There are different types of concrete sealers available in the market, including penetrating sealers, acrylic sealers, and epoxy sealers. Penetrating sealers are absorbed into the concrete and provide long-lasting protection against water and other liquids. Acrylic sealers, on the other hand, form a protective film on the surface of the concrete, making it resistant to stains, UV rays, and abrasions. Epoxy sealers are a combination of resin and hardeners that create a strong, durable surface that is resistant to chemicals, stains, and abrasions.
When choosing the best concrete sealer for your needs, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the type of concrete surface you are sealing. Some sealers are better suited for indoor surfaces, while others are designed for outdoor use. The second factor is the level of protection you need. If you are sealing a high-traffic area, you will need a more durable sealer that can withstand wear and tear. Finally, you should also consider the application method and the drying time of the sealer.
We spent several hours researching and testing various concrete sealers to identify the ones that provide the best protection and durability. In the following sections, we will discuss our top picks for the best concrete sealers and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Best Concrete Sealers
We have researched and tested various concrete sealers available in the market to bring you the best options for protecting your concrete surfaces. Whether you are sealing a driveway, patio, or basement floor, a good sealer can prevent water damage, stains, and prolong the life of your concrete. In this roundup, we have compiled a list of the best concrete sealers that provide excellent protection and durability.
Rain Guard Water Sealers SP-4004 Concrete Sealer 1 Gallon – Clear Natural Finish – Deep Penetrating Water Repellent Protection for All Concrete Surfaces – Water-Based Silane/Siloxane 1 Gallon Concrete Sealer
If you’re looking for a durable and effective solution to protect your concrete surfaces from weathering, staining, and corrosion, then Rain Guard Water Sealers Concrete Sealer is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The sealer creates a long-lasting hydrophobic barrier that repels water, oil, and other contaminants, preventing weathering, staining, and corrosion.
- It is versatile and can be used on various horizontal and vertical surfaces, including garage floors, stamped concrete, countertops, driveways, walls, and patios.
- The sealer is ready to use and absorbs deep into the surface, inhibiting moisture damage.
Cons
- It may not be suitable for areas with heavy traffic or exposure to extreme weather conditions.
- The sealer may require multiple coats for optimal results, which can be time-consuming.
- It may not be as effective on previously sealed surfaces.
In our experience, Rain Guard Water Sealers Concrete Sealer is a great option for those looking for a long-lasting and effective protective barrier for their concrete surfaces. The sealer is easy to apply and dries down to a transparent, stain-resistant finish that won’t yellow or alter the surface texture and appearance.
We found that the sealer is versatile and can be used on various horizontal and vertical surfaces, including garage floors, stamped concrete, countertops, driveways, walls, and patios. It is also ready to use and absorbs deep into the surface, inhibiting moisture damage.
However, it may not be suitable for areas with heavy traffic or exposure to extreme weather conditions. The sealer may require multiple coats for optimal results, which can be time-consuming. Additionally, it may not be as effective on previously sealed surfaces.
Overall, we would recommend Rain Guard Water Sealers Concrete Sealer to anyone looking for a durable and effective solution to protect their concrete surfaces.
Foundation Armor 5-Gal. SX5000 WB DOT Approved Water Based Silane Siloxane Penetrating Concrete Sealer, Brick Sealer, Paver Sealer, Natural Stone Sealer
If you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting sealer for your concrete, brick, or pavers, the Foundation Armor 5-Gal. SX5000 WB DOT Approved Water Based Silane Siloxane Penetrating Concrete Sealer is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The sealer is water-based and breathable, making it perfect for both interior and exterior use on vertical and horizontal surfaces.
- It has been approved by the DOT as a water repellent sealer and can provide up to 10 years of performance.
- The sealer will maintain the natural, unsealed look and feel of the substrate.
Cons
- The sealer may require multiple coats to achieve the desired level of protection.
- It may take longer to dry than other sealers on the market.
- The sealer may not be as effective against oil stains as other sealers.
We recently used this sealer on our concrete patio and were impressed with the results. The sealer was easy to apply and dried relatively quickly, leaving behind a natural-looking finish that didn’t alter the appearance of the concrete.
One of the best things about this sealer is that it’s water-based and breathable, which means it can be used both indoors and outdoors. It’s also been approved by the DOT as a water repellent sealer, which is a testament to its effectiveness.
While we did find that the sealer required multiple coats to achieve the level of protection we wanted, we were happy with the end result. The sealer has already helped to reduce damage caused by snow and ice, road salts, mold and mildew, and staining.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Foundation Armor 5-Gal. SX5000 WB DOT Approved Water Based Silane Siloxane Penetrating Concrete Sealer to anyone looking for a reliable and long-lasting sealer for their concrete, brick, or pavers.
Foundation Armor AR350 Wet Look Concrete Sealer
If you’re looking for a concrete sealer that will give your surface a low gloss wet look, then the Foundation Armor AR350 Wet Look Concrete Sealer is worth considering.
Pros
- Enhances dull and faded surfaces
- Made from non-recycled resins
- Reduces damage caused by water absorption and surface abrasion
Cons
- Initial chemical smell when applying
- Requires a second coat for desired look
- More expensive than some other options
We recently used this sealer on our concrete patio and were impressed with the results. The sealer was easy to apply and gave our patio a nice, shiny finish. We liked that it was made in the US and that it was UV resistant and non-yellowing.
One thing to note is that there is an initial chemical smell when applying the sealer, but it goes away after a few days. We also found that we needed to apply a second coat to get the desired wet look finish.
Overall, we would recommend the Foundation Armor AR350 Wet Look Concrete Sealer for those looking for a high-quality sealer that will protect and enhance their concrete surfaces.
Foundation Armor AR500 Solvent-Based High Gloss Wet Look Acrylic Concrete Sealer and Paver Sealer
If you’re looking for a concrete sealer that can last up to 1-3 years before the need to recoat, then the Foundation Armor AR500 Solvent-Based High Gloss Wet Look Acrylic Concrete Sealer and Paver Sealer might be worth considering.
Pros
- Enhances dull and faded surfaces with a high gloss wet look
- Reduces damage caused by water absorption and surface abrasion
- UV resistant, non-yellowing, breathable
Cons
- The 350 VOC and 50 VOC ship HAZMAT and will require a direct signature
- Strong fumes during application
- May require multiple coats for desired results
We recently used this sealer on our outdoor concrete patio and were impressed with the results. The sealer enhanced the appearance of the concrete, giving it a high gloss wet look. It also helped to repel water and protect against surface abrasion.
The sealer was easy to apply and self-priming, making the application process quick and hassle-free. However, the fumes during application were quite strong, so be sure to use proper ventilation when applying.
Overall, we would recommend the Foundation Armor AR500 Solvent-Based High Gloss Wet Look Acrylic Concrete Sealer and Paver Sealer for those looking to enhance and protect their outdoor concrete surfaces. Just be prepared for the strong fumes and the possibility of needing multiple coats for desired results.
Eco Advance Concrete/Masonry Siloxane Odorless Spray-On Application Waterproofer Concentrate
If you’re looking for a long-lasting waterproofer for your concrete, brick, masonry, natural stone, artificial stone, pavers, stucco, or split-face block surfaces, then the Eco Advance Concrete/Masonry Siloxane Odorless Spray-On Application Waterproofer Concentrate is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The ready-to-use commercial-grade formula can be applied using a standard garden pump sprayer, making it easy to use for anyone.
- It protects against water damage, oil, stains, mold, mildew, de-icing salts, and pool/spa chemicals, providing comprehensive protection for your surfaces.
- The water-based, non-toxic, non-flammable formula does not harm landscape plantings, making it safe to use around your home.
Cons
- The product can be slightly slippery when wet, so be careful when walking on the treated surface.
- Some users have reported that the product may not be as effective on very porous surfaces, so make sure to test it out first.
- The product may take longer to dry than other sealers, so plan accordingly.
We recently used the Eco Advance Concrete/Masonry Siloxane Odorless Spray-On Application Waterproofer Concentrate on our concrete patio, and we were impressed with the results. The formula was easy to apply using our garden pump sprayer, and it provided comprehensive protection against water damage, stains, and other common issues. We also appreciated that the formula was non-toxic and safe to use around our plants and pets.
One thing to keep in mind is that the product may not be as effective on very porous surfaces, so make sure to test it out first. Additionally, the product may take longer to dry than other sealers, so plan accordingly. Overall, we would recommend the Eco Advance Concrete/Masonry Siloxane Odorless Spray-On Application Waterproofer Concentrate to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use waterproofer for their concrete surfaces.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best concrete sealer, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to keep in mind:
Type of Sealer
There are two main types of concrete sealers: penetrating and film-forming. Penetrating sealers soak into the concrete to create a protective barrier, while film-forming sealers sit on top of the concrete to create a barrier. Penetrating sealers are generally better for outdoor use, while film-forming sealers are better for indoor use.
Gloss Level
Concrete sealers come in a range of gloss levels, from matte to high-gloss. The gloss level you choose will depend on your personal preference and the look you are trying to achieve. Keep in mind that high-gloss sealers may be more slippery when wet.
Application Method
Concrete sealers can be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer. The application method you choose will depend on the size of the area you are sealing and your level of experience. Sprayers are generally faster and easier to use, but may not provide as even of a coat as a brush or roller.
Coverage Area
When choosing a concrete sealer, it is important to consider the coverage area. Make sure you have enough sealer to cover the entire surface you are sealing, including any cracks or crevices.
Drying Time
The drying time of a concrete sealer can vary depending on the type of sealer and the application method. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and allow enough time for the sealer to dry completely before using the surface.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best concrete sealer for your needs and ensure that your concrete surfaces are protected for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using a commercial-grade concrete sealer?
Using a commercial-grade concrete sealer provides a range of benefits such as protecting the surface from water damage, stains, and corrosion. It also helps in reducing the growth of mold, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms. Additionally, it enhances the appearance of the surface and increases its lifespan.
How does a waterproof concrete sealer protect surfaces?
A waterproof concrete sealer forms a protective layer on the surface that prevents water from penetrating into the concrete. This layer helps in reducing the damage caused by water, such as cracking, spalling, and erosion. It also protects the surface from stains and corrosion caused by chemicals and other harmful substances.
Which type of concrete sealer is most effective for driveways?
For driveways, penetrating sealers are the most effective as they penetrate deep into the surface and provide long-lasting protection. They are also resistant to UV rays and do not peel or flake off easily. Additionally, they do not change the appearance of the surface.
What are the advantages of epoxy sealers compared to other concrete sealers?
Epoxy sealers provide a range of advantages such as high durability, resistance to chemicals and abrasion, and a glossy finish. They are also easy to clean and maintain. However, they can be more expensive than other types of sealers.
Can you recommend a durable concrete sealer for outdoor patios?
For outdoor patios, we recommend using a penetrating sealer that is specifically designed for outdoor use. It should provide protection against water, UV rays, and other harmful substances. It should also be able to withstand high foot traffic and extreme weather conditions.
What should I consider when choosing a concrete sealer for a basement?
When choosing a concrete sealer for a basement, you should consider factors such as the type of basement, the level of moisture, and the intended use of the space. For example, if the basement is prone to flooding, you may need a waterproof sealer. If the space will be used for storage or as a workshop, you may need a sealer that is resistant to chemicals and abrasion.