Best Concrete Sealer
By Annabelle Evans
| Updated 3 Days Ago
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Concrete is a tough, versatile material used for everything from driveways and patios to garage floors and basements, but without proper treatment, it can be prone to staining, cracking, and wear. That’s where concrete sealers come in, adding a protective layer to prevent water, oil, and other liquids from penetrating the surface. A good sealer can extend the life of your concrete and keep it looking fresh, with some even enhancing its appearance with a glossy finish. When choosing a sealer, consider factors like UV resistance, slip resistance, and durability, especially for high-traffic areas or outdoor use. We tested 12 concrete sealers to find the best options for protection and ease of application across different surfaces.
Armor SX5000 Concrete Sealer
We think this is a top-notch choice for protecting concrete surfaces due to its professional-grade formula and long-lasting effects.
We think this is a top-notch choice for protecting concrete surfaces due to its professional-grade formula and long-lasting effects.
We recently tried out the Armor SX5000 on a client’s driveway, and we were impressed with its performance. This water-based sealer went on smoothly and dried clear, preserving the concrete’s natural look. It’s nice to find a product that protects without altering appearance.
The deep-penetrating formula really stood out to us. Unlike surface sealers, this one forms a water-repellent barrier below the surface. We noticed water beading up nicely after application, which bodes well for its ability to prevent damage from moisture, salt, and freeze-thaw cycles.
One thing to keep in mind is that proper surface prep is key. We made sure to clean the driveway thoroughly before applying. While it took some extra time, the results were worth it. The sealer’s versatility is a big plus – we’ve since used it on brick pavers and stone surfaces with equally good results.
Armor AR500 Concrete Sealer
We think this high-gloss sealer is a top choice for dramatically enhancing and protecting exterior concrete and pavers.
We think this high-gloss sealer is a top choice for dramatically enhancing and protecting exterior concrete and pavers.
We recently tried out the Armor AR500 on our concrete patio, and we were impressed with the results. This solvent-based sealer gave our dull concrete a stunning wet look that really made the colors pop. It was like our patio got a whole new life!
Applying the sealer was pretty straightforward. We used a roller to spread it evenly, and it dried quickly. One gallon covered about 200 square feet, which was enough for our small patio. The glossy finish not only looked great but also seemed to repel water and resist stains.
We did notice a strong smell while applying the sealer, so we made sure to keep doors and windows closed. After it dried, the odor went away. The surface felt a bit slick when wet, so we’d be careful during rainy weather. Despite these minor issues, we think the Armor AR500 is a solid pick for anyone wanting to spruce up their concrete or paver surfaces.
Armor WB25 Concrete Sealer
We recommend this professional-grade sealer for its high-gloss wet look and long-lasting protection on concrete and pavers.
We recommend this professional-grade sealer for its high-gloss wet look and long-lasting protection on concrete and pavers.
We tested the Armor WB25 on an old concrete patio that needed some TLC. After a good cleaning, we rolled on two coats about 6 hours apart. The sealer went on smoothly and dried quickly with little odor.
The results were impressive. Our dull, faded concrete now had a rich, wet look that really made the color pop. It’s not just about looks though – this sealer forms a tough protective layer. We’ve noticed that water beads up and rolls off instead of soaking in.
While we love the glossy finish, it can be slippery when wet. We added some anti-slip additives to high-traffic areas for safety. The sealer has held up well to foot traffic and weather over several months. It’s a bit pricey, but a little goes a long way. For DIY-ers wanting pro results, this sealer delivers.
Armor AR350 Concrete Sealer
We recommend this concrete sealer for its long-lasting protection and dramatic color enhancement.
We recommend this concrete sealer for its long-lasting protection and dramatic color enhancement.
We tried the Armor AR350 on our driveway and patio, and we were impressed with the results. This sealer darkened our concrete, bringing out rich tones we didn’t know were there. It gave our surfaces a subtle sheen that made them look fresh and new.
Applying the sealer was straightforward. We used a roller for an even coat. The product spread nicely and dried quickly. We noticed it filled in small cracks, giving our concrete a smoother feel.
After a few months of use, we can say the AR350 holds up well to foot traffic and weather. Our driveway still beads water, showing its protective qualities are intact. We like that when it’s time to reseal, we only need to add one new coat.
Armor SX5000 Concrete Sealer
We recommend this sealer for its long-lasting protection and ease of use on various surfaces.
We recommend this sealer for its long-lasting protection and ease of use on various surfaces.
We tried the Armor SX5000 on our old brick foundation and were impressed by how easy it was to apply. The water-based formula had almost no smell, which was a big plus for us. We used a garden sprayer to put it on, and it went on smoothly without any stickiness.
After letting it dry for a couple of days, we did the water test. We were happy to see the water beading up on the surface instead of soaking in. This gave us peace of mind knowing our foundation was now protected against moisture damage.
We also used it on our concrete patio. The sealer didn’t change the look of the concrete at all, which we liked. It’s been a month since we applied it, and so far, it’s held up well to foot traffic and rain. We’re hoping it will help our patio last longer and stay cleaner. If you have old concrete or brick that needs protection, this sealer is worth a try.
Prosoco SaltGuard WB
We think this concrete sealer is a solid choice for both professionals and homeowners looking to protect their surfaces from moisture and salt damage.
We think this concrete sealer is a solid choice for both professionals and homeowners looking to protect their surfaces from moisture and salt damage.
We recently tried out the Prosoco SaltGuard WB on a few different concrete surfaces around our property. This water-based sealer was easy to apply and didn’t leave any noticeable film on the treated areas. We liked that it kept the natural look of our concrete while still providing protection.
One thing we noticed is that a little goes a long way. We covered about 300 square feet per gallon, which matched up with what the product claimed. The sealer dried quickly, and we were able to walk on the surface after just a few hours.
We did find that the sealer made some areas a bit slippery when wet, so we’d suggest being careful on slopes or steps. The 3-5 year lifespan means we’ll need to reapply it down the road, but that’s pretty standard for concrete sealers. Keep in mind that you can’t use this when it’s too hot or cold outside, which might limit when you can apply it depending on where you live.
Quikrete Waterproofer
We think this sealer is a solid choice for those looking to protect concrete and masonry surfaces without changing their look.
We think this sealer is a solid choice for those looking to protect concrete and masonry surfaces without changing their look.
We tried out Quikrete’s Waterproofing Sealer on a few spots around our house. It went on pretty smoothly with a roller. The liquid was thin, so we had to be careful not to let it pool up in low spots.
One thing we liked was how it didn’t change the color of our concrete patio. After it dried, you couldn’t even tell it was there. But it did its job – water beaded up nicely when we tested it with the hose.
We found it worked well on our brick walkway too. The sealer soaked in and didn’t leave a shine. It took about three days to fully dry, which was longer than we hoped. The smell was strong at first, but it went away once it dried. We think it’s a good pick for DIY folks who want to protect their outdoor surfaces.
Armor WL550 Concrete Sealer
We recommend this sealer for its easy application and impressive color-enhancing effects on various surfaces.
We recommend this sealer for its easy application and impressive color-enhancing effects on various surfaces.
We recently tried the Armor WL550 on a few different surfaces around our property. The application process was a breeze – we used a roller attached to a painter’s pole, which made covering large areas quick and easy.
The sealer dried fast, leaving our flagstone and concrete with a nice matte wet look. It really brought out the colors in the stone, making it look less dusty and more vibrant. We noticed that water beaded up on the surface after application, which is a good sign for its water-repellent qualities.
One thing to keep in mind is the strong smell during application. We made sure to wear masks and work in a well-ventilated area. The sealer also darkened our surfaces a bit more than we initially expected, so it’s worth testing on a small area first. Despite these minor issues, we were happy with how it protected our outdoor spaces from moisture and freeze-thaw damage.
Armor AR350 Wet Look Sealer
We recommend the Armor AR350 for its dramatic color enhancement and long-lasting protection on concrete and pavers.
We recommend the Armor AR350 for its dramatic color enhancement and long-lasting protection on concrete and pavers.
We tried the Armor AR350 on our old stamped concrete patio, and the results were impressive. The sealer brought out rich, deep tones we didn’t know were there. It was like seeing our patio for the first time again.
Applying the product was straightforward. We used a roller for even coverage. The sealer went on smoothly and dried quickly. After two thin coats, our patio had a nice low-gloss sheen that made it look perpetually wet.
One downside we noticed was the strong smell during application. It lingered for a few days, so good ventilation is a must. But once cured, the finish has held up well against foot traffic and weather. Our patio now sheds water easily and looks great even after rain.
Ghostshield Concrete Sealer
We think this high-performance concrete sealer is a solid choice for protecting driveways, patios, and other concrete surfaces.
We think this high-performance concrete sealer is a solid choice for protecting driveways, patios, and other concrete surfaces.
We tried out the Ghostshield Siloxa-Tek 8500 concrete sealer on our driveway, and we were impressed with its performance. This water-based formula soaked into the concrete quickly, leaving no visible residue or sheen. After it dried, we noticed water beaded up on the surface just like it does on a freshly waxed car.
The sealer was easy to apply with a garden sprayer, though we had to be careful to get even coverage. We found it worked best when we applied two thin coats rather than one thick one. It dried fast, which was nice, but also meant we had to work quickly.
We put the sealer to the test during a rainy week, and it held up great. Water ran right off the driveway instead of soaking in. While it’s pricier than some other options, we think the deep-penetrating formula and long-lasting protection make it worth the cost for many homeowners. Just keep in mind you’ll need to reapply every few years to maintain the seal.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a concrete sealer, we recommend considering these key factors:
Type of Sealer
There are two main types:
- Penetrating sealers: Soak into concrete for invisible protection
- Surface sealers: Form a protective layer on top of concrete
Choose based on your needs for appearance and level of protection.
Application Method
Sealers come in different forms:
- Spray-on
- Roll-on
- Brush-on
Pick one that suits your skill level and project size.
Durability
Look for sealers that offer:
- UV resistance
- Abrasion resistance
- Chemical resistance
These features help the sealer last longer.
Drying Time
Fast-drying sealers let you use the surface sooner. Slower-drying options may be easier to apply evenly.
Coverage
Check how many square feet one gallon covers. This helps estimate how much you’ll need.
Finish
Decide if you want:
- Matte
- Satin
- Glossy
This affects the final look of your concrete.
VOC Content
Lower VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) content is better for the environment and your health.
We suggest comparing these features across different sealers to find the best fit for your project.