After over 30 hours of researching more than 60 concrete sealers and testing and evaluating seven of them, our results for the Best Concrete Sealers for 2024 are found below. We found that the Siloxa-Tek 8500 concrete sealer is best for most people. Its made of high quality silanes and siloxanes with a 40 percent actives content, so it’s active ingredients are stronger, less watered down and approved by the Department of Transportation. The 8500 concrete sealer leaves a natural finish without any artificial luster or sheen leaving a natural, protected surface without ever fading.
Our Pick – Best Concrete Sealers for 2024:
Though we like Siloxa-Tek 8500, the Okon S-40 is a less expensive alternative. It lacks the concentrated availability but is cost effective, providing durable performance at an affordable cost.
Why you should trust us
We have worked in the construction industry for more than 20 years. We’ve reviewed countless sealer products with our conclusions posted throughout this site. For this guide we also talked to a number of experts about what they look for when sealing any concrete application.
The American Concrete Institute provided us with resources about terminology and the industry, and we gained insight from magazines such as Concrete Decor, Concrete Construction and For Construction Pros as to which products were popular among contractors.
To determine the longevity of sealers we relied heavily on customer reviews from Home Depot, Lowes and Amazon.
The difference between penetrating sealers, decorative coating and durable coatings
If you’re purchasing a concrete sealer for the first time or you’re due to reapply, its helpful to know the meaning behind some basic terms – including penetrating sealer, decorative coating and durable coating to ensure you get the appropriate product.
Penetrating concrete sealers: Penetrating concrete sealers penetrate into the concrete to form a chemical barrier that protects against water, moisture and deicing salts. They usually leave a natural finish without changing the surface appearance and most products are breathable allowing for vapors to escape. They are more frequently used in exterior applications to protect against the harsh elements. A penetrating concrete sealer is your best choice if you are looking to protect your application from deicing salts, freeze-thaw cycles and water without changing the surface appearance or feel of the concrete. A penetrating concrete sealer has a long lifespan and typically requires reapplication after five plus years of service life.
Decorative coatings: Decorative concrete coatings are typically of an acrylic chemistry available in both solvent and water based formulations. Available in a range of sheen levels they typically leave a satin or gloss finish changing the look, feel and texture of the concrete. They are great for enhancing colors and giving concrete the much desired wet look. Acrylic concrete sealers generally wear faster than penetrating sealers and usually require reapplication much sooner, typically every year if exposed to deicing salts. Decorative acrylic concrete coatings are great at first leaving the concrete looking nice but tend to wear quickly and cost more in the long run with constant reapplication.
Durable coatings: Durable concrete coatings build a protective film on the concrete surface, producing a hard, long-lasting abrasion and chemical resistant finish. Available in a variety of colors most durable coatings leave a gloss finish. Durable concrete coatings are harder and last longer than decorative coatings. Because durable concrete coatings may yellow with exposure to UV radiation they are limited to interior use.
How we picked and tested
Manufacturers offer penetrating concrete sealers, decorative concrete coatings and durable concrete coatings but we’ve focused our selection on penetrating sealers due to their longevity, versatility, appearance and practicality.
Our testers were drawn to the natural finish of penetrating concrete sealers. We aren’t alone in that assessment, as many of our experts agree. A Concrete Decor article titled, “Use of Penetrating Sealers is on the Rise” published in January of 2017 states, “The decorative industry grew up on the “one size fits all” high-gloss sealer which was the go-to coating for decades. While high gloss is still widely used, low-gloss and natural finishes in the decorative concrete industry have been gaining momentum as homeowners, architects and designers seek more ecofriendly, green and natural-looking sealing options.”
Aside from its appearance, penetrating concrete sealers offer greater durability and are less prone to water absorption and deicing salt damage than decorative coatings.
Ultimately you want a concrete sealer that provides water repellency to keep out any salts, mold/mildew, efflorescence and dirt, and will have a long life span. We found that in penetrating concrete sealers with a silane/siloxane chemistry.
In our research, we found that more inexpensive penetrating concrete sealers suffered in quality due to low solids content and most commercial products were exorbitantly priced. We prioritized finding a high quality concrete sealer that was both durable and had a high solids content at a reasonable price.
According to our experts, the best penetrating concrete sealers are resistant to water, chloride absorption and staining but clear enough to not change the look or feel of the concrete. The Concrete Decor article mentioned above states, “While relatively new to the decorative industry, penetrating sealers have been used successfully in other markets for decades. Originally developed for the stone, masonry and concrete flatwork industry, penetrating sealers primarily resist water and stains, while not changing the substrate’s appearance. Their primary functions have been salt and acid resistance, efflorescence control and water resistance.”
Concrete Construction noted that, “When applied properly, penetrating sealers can serve as chloride screens and dampproofing to improve durability against destructive corrosion of embedded reinforcement and damage from freezing and thawing.”
Decorative concrete sealers can be beautiful to look at but they’re also more likely to fade over time. For this reason we limited our search to products with a natural finish that do not need to be reapplied as frequently.
Overall we preferred concrete sealers with proven longevity that were highly reviewed with excellent water beading characteristics.
We searched for concrete sealers that are available online which allows the consumer freedom to order and have them shipped to a home or business versus having to shop around and find a distributor that carries the product in stock. Ideally we wanted concrete sealers that were not only conveniently available but offered excellent performance. At the very minimum we felt each concrete sealer should be composed of a 20% silane/siloxane chemistry. We were able to rule out any sealers that were too watered down or did not have enough active ingredients. Concrete sealers that offered additional oil and stain repellency were viewed as a nice bonus, but were not a required factor in our selection.
A note on penetrating concrete sealers. Though plenty of penetrating concrete sealers are available our research showed that homeowners often regret purchasing a penetrating concrete sealer that did not offer any sort of water repellency, such as a penetrating silicate densifier. These concrete sealers simply harden the concrete but offer no water and stain repellency. They are inexpensive, but likewise they don’t offer the full benefits of a silane/siloxane penetrating concrete sealer. Because of this we prioritized finding products that were penetrating and hydrophobic impregnating concrete sealers.
After considering over 60 concrete sealing products, we evaluated and tested seven. We applied and examined each product to check for a clear, natural finish. We tested for abrasions, salt exposure and water absorption and we also compared the application techniques for ease of use. Finally we asked testers to check for mold, mildew growth and efflorescence deposits.
Our pick: Our testers like the ease of use and lack of maintenance of the Siloxa-Tek 8500 of all the concrete sealers we tried. The product is easy enough to use so a professional is not needed to apply it. The Siloxa-Tek 8500 concrete sealer is also available as a concentrate which was lacking from the other sealers we tested. The type of silane, one of the chemical components, that is used in the product also gives the Siloxa-Tek 8500 concrete sealer a longer performance life, making it more stable and less volatile.
The concrete sealer not only uses quality silanes (isoctyltriethoxysilane) but it is a well formulated blend of silane and siloxane. Water was not absorbed by the concrete whatsoever during the water absorption test; in fact we were able to move the beaded water across the concrete and even then it was not absorbed.
Also the concrete sealer is available in a ready to use or concentrate version so you have the freedom to choose if you want to pay less to do a little extra work or pay a little more for the ease of convenience. The concentrate allows you to pay less in shipping since a one gallon of concentrate will make a five gallon pail of sealer, which wasn’t a possibility with some of the other sealers we looked at. This sealer is sold through Home Depot Lowes and Amazon, and Ghostshield is a brand that’s been around for years.
Flaws but not deal breakers
The only drawback to the Siloxa-Tek 8500 concrete sealer is that it does not repel stains such as oil and grease. We detected these minor imperfections when the Siloxa-Tek 8500 concrete sesaler was applied to a garage floor. Some of our testers found that if you prefer stain protection the 8500’s counterpart, the Siloxa-Tek 8505 (water based), or the Siloxa-Tek 8510 (solvent based) is resistant to staining. Also the Siloxa-Tek 8500 concrete sealer is more expensive than some of the other concrete sealers we reviewed, but the quality and longevity were unsurpassed making it a worthwhile investment.
Where to Buy
Siloxa-Tek 8500 concrete sealer is available through Home Depot in the ready to use version or Lowes in the ready to use or concentrated version. It is also available in both concentrations direct through the manufacturer.
Long-term test notes
After fifteen months of exposure to the elements, two freeze-thaw cycles and two winter seasons, we still highly recommend it. We did not have any visible cracking, spalling or deicing salt damage on driveway applications. Though we haven’t tested the product for a full five to ten years like the manufacturer claims it will work for, we haven’t experienced any major issues ourselves but we’ll continue to long-term test to see if any problems arise.
Runner-up
Though we like the Siloxa-Tek 8500 concrete sealer best, if you prefer something less expensive and a product that is available on store shelves we recommend Rustoleum Okon S-40. This concrete sealer is also a 40% silane/siloxane, penetrating sealer. It is not available concentrated, but it has a nice price point for a 40% formula. This concrete sealer comes with the option to purchase online or in some retail store outlets.
The S-40 has proven longevity, with one reviewer on the Home Depot site saying “This product is 40% silane/siloxane and is the best deal on an active ingredient basis. Most of the other products out there are just watered down versions with only 5%-20% active ingredients. S-20 was the next best deal I could find. Be sure to look at the concentration of ingredients on the Spec sheet so that you don’t end up just buying water.” We’re confident this will remain an effective and viable option for sealing concrete for years to come.
Historically when it came to staining concrete, there were acid stains and “other stains”. Reactive acid stains had been used on concrete for decades and really took over the market when it came to coloring concrete. With new chemistry and technology emerging and as the concrete stain industry grew, new products have been formulated and developed to compete with acid stains. These new products are water-based instead of acid-based and come in an assortment of colors. They are UV stable which means they can be used indoors and outdoors. Water-based stains are made up of water, water-based resins and paint-grade resins to allow for excellent penetration into concrete.
Differences between acid stains, water-based stains and solid color stains
Acid Stains: Most acid stains are a mixture of water, hydrochloric acid, and acid-soluble metallic salts. They work by chemically reacting with calcium hydroxide after penetrating the surface. The acid in the stain lightly etches the surface, allowing the metallic salts to penetrate more easily. Once the stain reacts, it becomes a permanent part of the concrete and won’t fade, chip off, or peel away. Acid stains leave a mottled surface appearance. They are available in select earth tone colors but can be mixed for additional color options.
Water-Based Stains: A new-generation of stain which blend pigments and acrylic polymers to penetrate concrete producing a translucent color. The main difference between water-based stains and acid stains is that no chemical reaction occurs with water-based stains, so the color is more consistent. Water based stains are available in a large selection of colors in comparison to traditional earth tone colors of acid stains. One of the biggest draws to using a water-based stain in replacement of an acid stain is safety. Water-based stains are low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and safer to apply because they are free of solvents and acids. Water-based stains are much easier to work with, and do not need to be neutralized after application. Water-based stains can save time and labor while achieving the same look and appearance as an acid stain.
Solid Color Stains: Solid color concrete stains are similar in viscosity and composition to paint; however, they have been optimized and formulated to be more durable to be able to withstand heavy traffic, abrasions and weathering such as freeze-thaw cycling, deicing salt exposure and UV radiation. Although solid color concrete stains are not as durable as epoxy coatings and urethane coatings, they require less surface preparation, maintenance and can be used on exterior concrete. Some of the major draws to solid color concrete stains is that they are easy to use, water-based with low odor and they can hide old staining or concrete imperfections.
Water-based stains and acid stains are intended to enhance rather than disguise the surface. They will not hide cracks, blemishes, or other flaws. Nor will they completely mask an underlying color or conceal the texture of the surface. A solid color stain on the other hand can hide imperfections such as staining, color and texture.
Why should you choose a solid color concrete stain:
- If you are looking to completely change the color or look of existing concrete or cover and fix old, ugly concrete.
- To hide existing imperfections and stains, such as rust and oil, to create an even appearance.
- Add definition and depth to stamped concrete or to renew, enhance textures, or fix badly installed stamped concrete.
- To waterproof concrete while also protecting concrete from deicing salts and freeze-thaw damage.
How to apply a solid color concrete stain:
- Make sure the concrete is clean, dry and free of all previous stains or sealers. If the concrete was previously sealed make sure you strip, etch or grind off the previous sealer.
- If the concrete is porous or broom finished it is best to use a primer or a bonding agent to increase adhesion of the solid color concrete stain to the surface.
- Apply within the application temperature and weather parameters.
- If multiple gallons are being used, make sure to batch (mix) all units together to ensure uniform color. This can be done in a 5-gallon pail.
- Apply a coat of solid color concrete stain using a ¼”- 3/8” nap roller. Back roll and cross-hatch for complete and even coverage. Since concrete varies in texture and porosity, two coats may be required for a uniform color appearance.
- Optionally use an enhancer to highlight textures of stamped concrete.
- Use a topcoat sealer for added longevity and UV protection.
Popular Solid Color Concrete Stain Products:
One of the most popular solid color stains on the market is Behr’s Solid Color Concrete Stain. Behr claims their product is, “A durable solid color stain designed to help protect and enhance both exterior and interior, vertical and horizontal concrete surfaces. This Siliconized 100% Acrylic formula is designed to provide a long-lasting durable finish.”
One of the many pros to Behr Solid Color Concrete Stain is its availability. Behr is a popular brand sold exclusively through The Home Depot. If you want to stain your concrete today you can literally walk into any Home Depot store, pick a gallon of Behr off the shelf and begin your project. But just because a product is readily available does not mean it is the best product for you to use. According to many customer reviews the product seems less durable than claimed, with a major complaint being how easily the product scratches and scuffs. Behr does offer a 1-year warranty to furnish an equivalent amount of new product or a refund of the original purchase. Although they do not disclose longevity of their product, it seems the product is intended to last less than one year.
Pro-Fusion 1505 Solid Color Concrete Stain Review
We recently came across a newer solid color concrete stain system: the Pro-Fusion 1505 – part of the Ghostshield brand. Ghostshield claims their product is, “A pigmented, water-based, non-yellowing stain system designed for unsealed concrete, masonry and pavers. Infused with nano-sized color particles, the 1505 concrete stain system will provide a much stronger bond than typical polymer stains. It penetrates deeper and self-crosslinks to promote outstanding adhesion.”
Since we always test out new products when they become available, we decided to try out the Pro-Fusion 1505. The Pro-Fusion 1505 solid color concrete stain is available in six color options. The Pro-Fusion 1505 enhancer designed for stamped concrete is available in three color options. After going through the entire recommended application process this is what we found.
The Pro-Fusion 1505 is considered a solid color concrete stain system. What this means is everything you need to successfully stain your concrete and have it last for many years is included in the system. However, you do not need to purchase all the items in the system. We purchased the Pro-Fusion 1505 primer, Pro-Fusion 1505 solid color stain in Tan, and the Cryli-Tek 5500 as the topcoat sealer. A topcoat sealer is required after applying the Pro-Fusion 1505. We did not purchase the enhancer as it is only recommended for stamped concrete. We were also informed that you can use the Pro-Fusion 1505 primer as the topcoat sealer, but we decided to go all out for the sake of this review.
Before the concrete stains arrived, we prepped a broom finished concrete patio. It had been previously stained with the Behr Solid Color Concrete Stain and then sealed with a solvent-based acrylic sealer. We made sure to strip it, pressure wash it and let it completely dry out. There were some old rust stains that were not removed and had always bled through the previous stain, so we were interested in seeing if the Pro-Fusion 1505 concrete stain was able to conceal them.
Once the products arrived, we chose a sunny day with the temperature around 70 degrees with low humidity to begin priming. We decided to use the primer because the broom finished concrete patio was older and very porous. The primer is not necessary for every application. If we were applying this system to stamped concrete, we would not have used the primer and would have just gone right to applying the solid color stain. We applied the primer with an 18” – 3/8” nap paint roller. We made sure we rolled in the same direction and let it dry for 24 hours before applying the solid color stain. We applied the stain as we applied the primer, with an 18” – 3/8” nap paint roller. We rolled one coat onto the concrete and after letting it dry, we applied a second coat. The two coats completely covered the old rust stain – you couldn’t even tell it had ever been there.
The old broom finished concrete patio now looked like a newly painted patio. The tan color left the patio looking like new concrete. The next day we applied the Cryli-Tek 5500 as the topcoat sealer. The Cryli-Tek 5500 is a low gloss, water-based, wet look acrylic sealer so it really gave the stain a nice durable finish.
We applied this system and it has held up great to foot traffic, BBQ grilling and salt water from a saltwater pool. We have not experienced any spalling or cracking from the salt water. If food spills on the patio, it is easily wiped away and grease from the grill hoses off nicely.
All in all, the Pro-Fusion 1505 was very easy to use. It may seem intimidating with all the different system options but for most people the solid color concrete stain and a topcoat sealer is all you will need. We were amazed that the stain was able to hide old rust stains. This is something that the Behr product had been unable to do in the past. Since Ghostshield is known for professional grade products we would recommend the Pro-Fusion 1505 over the Behr Solid Color Stain. After talking with the manufacturer, the Pro-Fusion 1505 had been under development and testing for over five years before it was made available to the public. As with all Ghostshield products the Pro-Fusion 1505 was tested in the field by their certified applicators, installers and contractors. We were given a list of Pro-Fusion 1505 project references to ensure that the product has been used in the field and is long lasting. What makes the Pro-Fusion 1505 unique is the Ghostshield nanotechnology. Infused with nano-sized color particles, the 1505 concrete stain system will provide a much stronger bond than typical polymer stains. It penetrates deeper and self-crosslinks to promote outstanding adhesion. Overall this leads to a longer lifespan.
The Pro-Fusion 1505 is currently available direct through the manufacturer, Amazon or Lowes. Although it is more expensive than the Behr Solid Color Concrete Stain, you do not need to be stripping, staining and resealing every year. It is a worthwhile investment for solid color stain protection.
If you are looking to seal a concrete driveway use one of these concrete driveway sealers:
The best all-around: Siloxa-Tek 8500
Pros: 40% water-based silane/siloxane. Available in a single gallon ready to use or a one gallon concentrate that makes five gallons. Able to protect concrete from water, cracking, deicing salts and freeze-thaw cycles.
Buy Now: Amazon, Lowes, Home Depot, Concrete Sealer Supply
The most economical: Concrete Driveway Sealer
Pros: Very cost effective and will do a good job sealing for a season.
Buy Now: Amazon
Best for stopping oil-based stains and automotive fluids: Siloxa-Tek 8510
Pros: Long lasting, 95% actives concrete driveway sealer that will repel staining from oils and greases.
Buy Now: Concrete Sealer Supply
The contractor’s favorite: Saltguard WB
Pros: Although it only has a 4.2% actives content it is mostly used in the commercial marketplace. Prosoco is a trusted manufacturer and brand.
Buy Now: JonDon
Best high gloss decorative concrete sealer: Diamond Clear
Pros: Can be used on freshly poured concrete and will give a concrete driveway a high gloss wet look finish.
Buy Now: EMI Supply
Types of Concrete Driveway Sealers
When it comes to choosing a type of concrete driveway sealer you can first break them down into three categories:
- Penetrating Concrete Driveway Sealers: These natural finish concrete sealers that do just as their name states; they penetrate into the concrete without leaving a surface film. Penetrating concrete driveway sealers are best used in northern climates and environments since they are able to protect concrete driveways from harsh freeze-thaw cycles and deicing salt damage including spalling, pitting and cracking. Penetrating concrete driveway sealers are usually silane and siloxane based products.
- Decorative Concrete Driveway Sealers: These high-gloss, wet look or satin finish concrete sealers also do just as their name states; they add a decorative finish to any concrete, brick, paver or masonry substrate. Although they look fantastic when first applied, their appearance will fade over time and regular resealing maintenance will need to be maintained. Decorative concrete driveway sealers are usually of a solvent-based or water-based acrylic chemistry.
- Concrete Driveway Coatings: Concrete driveway coatings are decorative and durable at the same time. They are able to withstand harsh winter climates while providing a decorative look. They are also able to withstand staining from leaves, oils, greases and hot tire pick up. The only downside is that they tend to be very expensive based on their multi-functioning ability. Durable concrete driveway coatings are usually urethane based products.
Why We Recommend Silane/Siloxane Based Penetrating Concrete Driveway Sealers
We recommend silane/siloxane based penetrating concrete driveway sealers for most concrete driveways since they provide the most bang for your buck. Silanes and siloxanes are the active ingredients in the formulations. What makes some silanes and siloxanes better than others is the actives concentration. For example a 5% silane/siloxane solution is going to be 5% active silane/siloxane ingredients and 95% water or solvent. Whereas a 40% silane/siloxane is going to be 40% active silane/siloxane ingredients and 60% water or solvent. Water or solvent, commonly referred to as the carrier is used to drive the active ingredients into the concrete. Once the water or solvent evaporates what remains is the active silane/siloxane ingredients. Since solvents can take the active ingredients deeper into the concrete than water, solvent-based concrete sealers typically perform better. However, depending on the type of solvent used they can also have more of an odor (higher VOC’s) and contain more harmful ingredients. The Department of Transportation mandates that all of the products used on their approved products list (and subsequently the roadways) be a minimum of 40% actives. Although this may seem like overkill when it comes to treating your residential driveway, driveways are actually most at risk. Even if you do not use deicing salts on your driveway, your vehicle will track them in from the roadways. The deicing salts will then melt off your vehicle and onto the driveway where they will wreak havoc on the concrete if left untreated. Because of the chemistry behind silanes and siloxanes they are the most effective treatment to protect concrete from spalling, pitting and cracking.
While we prefer silanes and siloxanes that are 40% actives concentration or above, we also understand that these products tend to be more expensive. When you are comparing concrete driveway sealers make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Some of the products on the list above have more than a 95% actives concentration; whereas some of the other products have below a 5% actives concentration. Actives concentrations also directly correlate with longevity. The higher the actives concentration the longer the product will last.
What is the difference between silanes and siloxanes?
- Silanes: Silanes are the smaller molecule of the two while also being alkali-resistant and highly volatile (a high concentration of material is required). In layman’s terms this allows them to migrate deep into the substrate but a higher actives concentration is most effective.
- Siloxanes: Similar to a silane molecule yet a little larger, siloxanes cannot penetrate as deep as silanes due to their complexity and shape. They are less volatile (so you can use a lower concentration) and they are also alkali resistant. Since they do not penetrate as deep as silanes they are typically used in blended formulations or on their on on more porous mineral substrates such as brick and stone.
How to Apply a Concrete Driveway Sealer
Application of concrete driveway sealers will depend on what type of concrete sealer you decide to use.
- Penetrating concrete driveway sealers: Before sealing you want to make sure the concrete is dry, clean and free of any previous sealers or curing compounds. Penetrating concrete driveway sealers are usually universally applied with a pump sprayer, paint roller or brush. Since they are natural finish, non-film forming products it is hard to make a mistake during application. You just want to make sure that you are not over-applying them. A lot of times two coats are recommended with the coats being applied wet-on-wet. What this means is that you will apply a second coat immediately after the first coat. This help to ensure that you are getting enough concrete sealer material onto the substrate.
- Decorative concrete driveway sealers: Before sealing you want to make sure the concrete is dry and clean. If a previous decorative concrete driveway sealer was used you want to make sure when it comes time to reseal the new product you are using is of the same chemistry. What this means is if a solvent-based acrylic was previously used you want to reseal using a solvent-based acrylic sealer. This will prevent you from having to strip off the previous sealer. If you are thinking of switching the type of concrete driveway sealer from a decorative concrete driveway sealer to a penetrating concrete sealer you want to make sure the previous concrete sealer has completely worn away or you will need to remove it. In order to apply a decorative concrete driveway sealer a high quality 3/8″ nap paint roller is usually best practice. One coat is usually recommended.
- Concrete driveway coatings: Like decorative concrete driveway sealers you want to make sure the concrete is dry, clean and free of previous sealers or coatings. And if a previous concrete driveway sealer was used you want to make sure the new coating you are using is compatible and of a similar chemistry. In order to apply a concrete driveway coating, a high quality, 3/8″ nap paint roller is also best practice. One or two coats are recommended depending on the manufacturer.
What to look for when buying a concrete driveway sealer
When it comes to choosing a concrete driveway sealer it is best to first take into account your location. Do you live in a warmer climate or a colder climate. If you live in a colder climate a penetrating concrete driveway sealer is going to be your best option. You can use a decorative concrete driveway sealer but just keep in mind it will need to be reapplied more often since road salts and chlorides will eat away at the concrete sealer after a season. If you live in a warmer climate you can then narrow down the appropriate sealer based on the type of finish (sheen) you prefer – flat, satin, high gloss or wet look. Once you have determined your location you can then take into account longevity. Are you willing to make a larger up front investment and not have to seal as frequently, or would you rather buy an inexpensive product and reseal every season. And then you can take the finish (sheen) into consideration. Do you really like how your stamped concrete driveway looks when it is wet? If you live in a warmer climate a decorative concrete driveway sealer will do the job; whereas if you live in a colder climate a durable concrete coating will be able to stand up to the salt exposure for more than a season. There are a lot of factors to consider and there is no one size fits all concrete driveway sealer.
In order to best assist you we have come up with the following general recommendations for concrete driveway sealers:
- Northern climate, natural finish: Penetrating silane/siloxane based concrete sealer
- Northern climate, decorative finish: Durable urethane based concrete coating
- Southern climate, natural finish: Penetrating silane/siloxane based concrete sealer
- Southern climate, decorative finish: Decorative acrylic based concrete driveway sealer
Where to buy a concrete driveway sealer
When it comes to purchasing a concrete driveway sealer big box retailers such as Lowes and Home Depot do not usually carry concrete sealer products on store shelves. They do however have a large assortment in their online catalog. These special order products can be shipped directly to your home or to your local store. If you are under a time constraint you can shop on Amazon since there is a wide assortment of concrete driveway sealers that can be shipped via Prime. Smaller online retailers may have a longer shipping time; however, their pricing is usually most competitive. Before shopping a local hardware store, do some research as to what brands they are carrying since a lot of times they have been selling the same concrete sealer products for years while a newer technology is available.
Specialty concrete driveway sealers
If you are looking for features in addition to deicing salt protection there are products available that will also offer stain protection. These silane/siloxane based products use fluoro-chemistry to repel oils and automotive fluids. This is extremely beneficial when it comes to choosing a concrete driveway sealer since vehicles can leak grease and oil and cause unsightly stains. By using a specialty concrete driveway sealer it will make these stains easier to clean and keep the concrete driveway free of oil and grease stains. Read our review of best oil repellent concrete sealers to learn more.
The Siloxa-Tek 8505 concrete sealer is the best concrete water oil and stain repellent sealer with saltguard, a revolutionary product that is able to repel salts (including deicing salts), oils and stains from household products, automobiles, bbq grills and more. Of a silane/siloxane chemistry with an added proprietary component this concrete sealer product is unrivaled when it comes to sealing driveways, warehouses and patios to name a few. This concrete sealer product leaves a completely clear, natural finish so once you apply it, you wont even know it is there except when water, and fluids are spilled on the surface and they bead right up like a newly waxed car.
A lot of manufacturers claim their concrete sealer products will “limit the penetration of stains”; however, this is different and must not be confused with a sealer that is formulated to actually repel stains and oil like the Siloxa-Tek 8505 concrete sealer. The manufacturer would not give away the proprietary ingredient but we tested it in comparison to the products that claim to limit the penetration of stains and there is no comparison. The proprietary ingredient in the Siloxa-Tek 8505 concrete sealer is extremely effective and performs as described on the technical data sheets and the manufacturer is actually able to provide testing data on request.
This product is available in two variations, a water based version for residential applications and small commercial applications or a solvent based version for larger commercial applications. The water based version is available in a ready to use formulation or an ultra concentrated version (both are readily available for purchase through Lowes.com and if you prefer, The Home Depot.com carries the ready to use version) or it is available on Amazon. The ready to use product will cover 125 sq. ft. per container for both applications and the ultra concentrated product will cover 625 sq. ft. per container for both applications. If you are looking for industrial or commercial use of this product, it is also available in a solvent based version is called Siloxa-Tek 8510 concrete sealer and is available through the manufacturer in 1 gallon, 5 gallon bucket or drum quantities.
When it comes to application it could not be easier to apply. A garden variety sprayer, or nap paint roller is recommended. Two coats are highly recommended and upon talking to the manufacturer they essentially require it. The coats are applied wet-on-wet. What wet-on-wet means is that the second coat is applied before the first coat has dried. Because the concrete sealer product is so hydrophobic if you try to apply the second coat after the first coat has dried the first coat will try to repel the second coat. However, if you apply the second coat while the first coat is still wet you are able to get the product to penetrate as deep as possible and ensure the longest lasting performance. A good rule of thumb is to apply a first coat to a 500 square foot section and go back and apply the second coat to the same 500 square foot section and then move on to the next section and apply a first coat, then second coat. (You can walk on the first coat to apply the second coat, since it is a natural finish product it will not leave footprints).
What we love most about this product is that it does not need to be reapplied every year or even every few years but the product has a lifespan of up to 10 years before needing to apply another 2 coats. Protecting your concrete driveway from spalling, pitting, cracking, deicing salts, oil, auto fluids and staining the Siloxa-Tek 8505 is a worthwhile investment.
When it comes to choosing a concrete sealer you are probably overwhelmed by the plethora of options and information available on the internet. Ho do you know which one to choose. Which sites are reliable sources of information. What is the difference between a concrete sealer and a concrete coating. These are the type of questions that can keep someone searching for a concrete sealer up at night. And these are questions we receive on a daily basis. There is no one size fits all concrete sealer since no two substrates are alike. The concrete sealer you would use to seal your basement is not necessarily the same product that you should use on your patio. There are of course exceptions to this rule, but that is why we have come up with a check list to help you narrow down what the best concrete sealer is going to be.
Before we continue, let us define a few key terms that will be important. Application: an application is what you are trying to seal. For example a basement, driveway or patio. Substrate: a substrate is the type of material composition. For example concrete, brick, stone, stucco, slate. Finish: the finish is the level of shine you are looking for out of the product. For example flat, satin, gloss. The finishes are similar to paint finishes. Chemistry: the chemistry is the actual chemical make up of the product. For example, acrylic, epoxy or urethane. Square footage: before you can determine how many gallons of sealer you need, you must calculate the square feet or size of the project. For horizontal applications this can be calculated by measuring the length times width of say a garage or driveway. For vertical application you would follow the same calculations but if you are measuring basement walls you will need to add the square footage of each wall together.
Steps to choosing the best concrete sealer
- Application: narrow down your application and substrate. What are you trying to seal. Is it composed of concrete, brick, stone, slate, stucco? You cannot choose the best concrete sealer if you don’t know what you are sealing. Before continuing your research determine the substrate and the application.
- Location: Where do you live and what type of weathering will the sealer be composed to. Are you looking to seal indoor concrete or outdoor concrete? Identifying your location will help to determine the category of chemistry especially for outdoor applications. For example you do not want to be using a water-based acrylic on a driveway exposed to road salts unless you are okay with re-sealing the concrete every few months.
- Finish: Determine your ideal finish And we say ideal because some times the desired finish is just not practical and will need to be compromised for better longevity and performance. High gloss, wet look sealers look great but they are not going to be a one time clean it and forget it sealer. Determine if you are willing to make a sacrifice or if the final overall appearance is non-negotiable.
- Chemistry: This next category will require a little more research. Determine what the best chemistry will be for your intended application. For example, concrete driveways in northern climates are best sealed with a silane or silane/siloxane based chemistry. Silanes and siloxanes have been proven & tested to reduce road salts and magnesium chloride damage in concrete. On the other hand epoxies are best suited for interior applications since they are not UV stable and have exceptional stain resistance when compared with penetrating sealers.
- Quality/Longevity: Quality and longevity go hand in hand. The better quality, higher actives a product is composed of, the longer it will last. For example a 100% silane will last a lot longer than a 10% actives silane. Think about it like juice. If juice is 100% juice that means there is no added water, sugar or flavorings. Whereas a 10% juice is watered down and has all sorts of fillers and additives. When it comes to penetrating sealers 100% actives is best and will ensure the longest lifespan. But they are also going to be the most expensive. When it comes to penetrating sealers 40% actives tend to be a great alternative since they are what the Department of Transportation specifies on roadways and bridges. Lower quality sealers are often watered down or made with inferior ingredients. The saying you get what you pay for applies to concrete sealers.
- Price: Which brings us to our next point. Just because a sealer is only $30 per gallon does not mean that it is the best investment. The only time buying a $30/gallon bottle of concrete sealer is a good idea is if you are moving and don’t care about it not lasting. It is like buying an expensive jacket. You take into account the price per wear. Even though the upfront expense is costly, you will wear it every day for ten years. It is much more economical than buying a new jacket every year. The same goes for concrete sealer. You can use a $200 sealer to seal your concrete driveway and have it last 10 years, or you can use a $40 concrete sealer that will need to be reapplied yearly. The initial sticker price may be hard to swallow but you will save time and labor in the long run.
General recommendations
You can read our in depth review here where we overview the best concrete sealers in detail.
Siloxa-Tek 8500 is an all around favorite because it can be used on virtually any substrate and will work on all applications. It is a 40% actives silane/siloxane which means it will work to prevent spalling and road salt damage. It is also an excellent waterproofing concrete sealer that you can see working with its exceptional water beading. If you are looking for staining and oil resistance its counterpart Siloxa-Tek 8510 is an even better option. It is 95% actives so it is more expensive but will last longer and make stains easy to clean.
Familiar names such as Okon, and RustOleum do well in our tests – but so do a few newcomers.
According to Wikipedia, “concrete sealer is applied to concrete to protect it from surface damage, corrosion and staining. They either block the pores in the concrete to reduce absorption of water and salts or form an impermeable layer which prevents such materials from passing.”
Source: wikipedia.com
Picking out concrete sealer, let alone the best concrete sealer, can sometimes be daunting – there are just so many choices in type, finish, chemistry and application.
How we decided which products to review
We purchase every product we review. For this year’s review we considered forty concrete sealers, spent twenty-five hours researching, interviewed a few experts and consulted numerous consumers reviews. We buy and test concrete sealers ranging from about $20 a gallon up to $200 a gallon. For this year’s review we considered penetrating concrete sealers and epoxy garage floor coatings and have our best recommendations for both categories. Our pick for best penetrating concrete sealer: Siloxa-Tek 8500. Our pick for best garage epoxy floor coating: Rokrez Pro
The difference between penetrating concrete sealers and epoxy garage floor coatings
Penetrating concrete sealers do exactly what their name implies, they penetrate the concrete to form a chemical barrier that protects against water, moisture and deicing salts. Penetrating concrete sealers do not change the look or feel of the concrete and leave a natural, breathable finish. If you are looking for a sealer to combat deicing salt and freeze-thaw cycling a penetrating concrete sealer is the best. A penetrating concrete sealer has a long-life span and can last upwards of five years before needing to reapply it. Penetrating concrete sealers remain popular because they are easy to apply and require little to no maintenance once applied. Any DIYer can apply this product, all you need is a sprayer or paint roller.
Durable epoxy floor coatings on the other hand build a protective film on the concrete surface, producing a hard, long-lasting abrasion and chemical resistant finish. Available in a variety of colors most durable coatings leave a gloss finish. Paint flakes or metallics can be mixed into epoxy floor coatings to give a floor decorative and durable properties. One of the most important properties of getting a long-life span is proper surface preparation. Before applying an epoxy garage floor coating acid etching or grinding is required.
Penetrating concrete sealer reviews 2019
To determine whether a penetrating concrete sealer can withstand winter freeze-thaw cycles, our testers apply a concrete sealer in the spring and re-evaluate the results the following spring. Core samples are taken to determine the penetration depth. Rilem tubes are used to evaluate water absorption. We also visually inspect the concrete for any noticeable spalling or cracking. Our criteria included cost, durability and customer reviews.
How does a penetrating concrete sealer work? Concrete Décor has a fantastic article that describes this in detail, “A penetrating sealer reduces a substrate’s ability to absorb water or stains at the molecular level. Imagine the concrete surface as a series of microscopic doors (pores) set end to end. Without any kind of sealer, those doors are wide open, allowing easy entry for water or stains…Once the sealer is applied, those doors aren’t open as wide, which keeps the stain from getting into the surface. Note the doors don’t close completely, which allow vapor and gas to move through the substrate, but they don’t allow larger molecules with higher energy to pass through.”
Source: concretedecor.net
Our best overall pick
While most of the penetrating concrete sealers we have tested for the last three years have failed up to us writing this review, the Siloxa-Tek 8500 is still intact and performing like the day it was applied. Although the water beading effect has begun to fade in some areas the reduction in water absorption and the reduction in chloride ion content is still high. Make sure to read our full review on the Siloxa-Tek 8500.
The Siloxa-Tek 8500 is always favorably reviewed with 94% of customers recommending it. One reviewer, Diyer22, on HomeDepot.com says, “I was skeptical at first, couldn’t see how such a product could water proof concrete and be applied so easily. I power washed our 10 year old driveway, let it dry for a few days then applied this product using a pump sprayer in the early morning so that it didn’t instantly evaporate giving it a chance to penetrate the concrete. Don’t be fooled, pictures of results are attached. Driveway looks great, water just beads, one picture compares my sidewalk to my neighbors un treated driveway.”
Source: homedepot.com
One of the most unique features of the Siloxa-Tek 8500 is that it is available as a concentrate so you have the freedom to choose if you want to pay less to do a little extra work or pay a little more for the ease of convenience.
Finish: Natural
Durability: 5+ years
Coverage: 250 square feet per gallon, apply two coats
Preparation: Clean, dry concrete
Dry Time: 6 hours
Availability: Concrete Sealer Supply, Homedepot.com, Lowes.com, Amazon.com,
A better option
Siloxa-Tek 8500 is one of only two products in our ratings to earn an excellent in longevity and penetration depth. However, since we started our initial review, its counterpart, Siloxa-Tek 8510 came available on the marketplace. Unlike the Siloxa-tek 8500 the Siloxa-Tek 8510 product is a solvent based product. The Siloxa-Tek 8510 features all the best qualities of the 8500 but has additional stain protection to make oil and grease stains easier to clean. Although it is not as readily available as the Siloxa-Tek 8500 it may be a better option if you are looking for an even better product. Be aware that it is a lot more expensive than the 8500 (about $35 more per gallon)
Other products we considered: Read our reviews on Eagle Natural Seal and Okon S-20.
Garage floor epoxy coating reviews 2019
To determine whether an epoxy floor coating can withstand vehicle traffic our testers tested numerous vehicles with different weights and tires. Elcometer testing is performed to determine adhesion and bond. We also visually inspect the concrete for any noticeable scratches, scuffs and hot tire pick up. Garage floor coatings remain popular because they bring a garage floor to life with color, metallics and paint flakes. Our criteria included cost, durability and customer reviews.
What is a garage floor epoxy coating? An epoxy garage floor coating is not a paint. This is confusing because some paints may have a small amount of epoxy added to the mix to make it more durable than standard paint but it is still a paint. When looking for a garage floor epoxy coating make sure it is a true two component epoxy.
How to Apply
We found that applying an epoxy primer and then applying a urethane top coat to protect the epoxy gave it the longest lifespan. Application can be easy and save you a lot of money if you choose to do it yourself. Garage floor epoxies are two component products that need to be mixed prior to applying. Part A’s are mixed with Part B’s and then rolled or squeegeed onto the concrete.
Surface prep
When it comes to applying a garage floor epoxy one of the most important factors is the surface preparation. The floor needs to have good surface texture so the epoxy can bond and adhere. This can be achieved by etching the concrete with muriatic acid or using a floor grinder to grind the concrete. Apply garage floor epoxies to bare concrete. Do not apply garage floor epoxies to coated concrete without first removing the previous coating. Do not apply garage floor epoxies to outdoor applications, they are for indoor use only.
Garage floor epoxies are excellent at resisting chemicals such as oils and grease and resist long term spills – even if these fluids sit on the coating for a few days.
Another important factor when it comes to applying a garage floor epoxy is the amount of moisture that is in the concrete. If there is a substantial amount of moisture in the concrete you are going to want to use a vapor barrier coating as a primer and then apply an epoxy garage floor coating.
Hot tire pickup
The issue of car tires pulling sealer from concrete is hot tire pickup. Hot-tire pickup comes down to sealer type, and more importantly, sealer adhesion — the bond between the sealer and concrete substrate.
According to Concrete Décor: “As a car tire runs on the street during normal use, the temperature of the rubber increases. To experience this, feel your car tire in the morning before you drive, then again after you arrive at your destination. The heat generated from normal use causes the tire to expand slightly. When you stop driving and the tire cools, it shrinks back to normal size. This contraction in size puts pressure on the surface the tire is resting on. That pressure is the force that causes hot-tire pickup. As the tire shrinks, it pulls the sealer off the concrete.” Choosing a high quality garage floor epoxy is essential to preventing hot tire pickup.
Source: concretedecor.net
Best overall pick
For the first time we tested the Rokrez Pro product and we are impressed with the quality and finish of the product. Rokrez Pro Industrial Floor Coating by Simiron is a uniquely formulated two-component, 100% solids, high-build epoxy that provides heavy-duty protection for industrial floors. Rokrez Pro extended working time makes the product easy-to-use and enhances adhesion by allowing maximum surface penetration.
The Rokrez Pro is favored by reviewers: “
Tip: Add a slip resistant additive to make the finished product less slippery when wet. Use metallic additives and paint chips to give the floor a decorative feel. Also on the manufacturers website there is a dealer locator feature which allows you to input your zip code and see what local retailers stock the product.
Finish: High gloss
Coverage: 160 square feet per gallon, applied at 10 mils
Preparation: CSP 3-4 (grinded)
Dry Time: 16-24 hours dry to touch, full cure 7 days
Availability: Rokrez Dealer Locator
Other products we considered: Read our full Rocksolid Polycuramine Garage Floor Coating Kit review
Most readily available
Do it yourself epoxy garage floor kits such as RustOleum’s Epoxyshield or RockSolid products are readily available; however, they are not always the longest lasting or highest quality products. When choosing a DIY epoxy look for one with 100% solids, they last the longest and are able to withstand the most abrasion, heavy traffic and chemical exposure. Even though 100% solids epoxy systems have an expensive up front cost they are going to last the longest and save you money in the long run.
Why you should trust us
We have worked in the construction industry for more than 20 years. We’ve reviewed countless sealer products with our conclusions posted throughout this site. For this guide we also talked to a number of experts about what they look for when sealing any concrete application.
The American Concrete Institute provided us with resources about terminology and the industry, and we gained insight from magazines such as Concrete Decor, Concrete Construction and For Construction Pros as to which products were popular among contractors.
To determine the longevity of sealers we relied heavily on customer reviews from Home Depot, Lowes and Amazon as well as our own in house testing.
Common uses for concrete sealer:
Basement Waterproofing Sealer
The primary purpose of sealing a basement is waterproofing. Water is the arch enemy of concrete. Concrete is porous and water moves throughout concrete easily.
According to Energy Star, if your basement is damp, “The source of your problem could be a water leak or high humidity. Both can lead to mold, mildew, or other biological growth…A damp basement is a result of moisture migrating through a concrete foundation. There may not be a sign of any leak or standing water, but the moisture evaporates, increasing indoor humidity. Another common cause is condensation on the cold concrete walls and floors during humid months.”
Source: energystar.com
When choosing a basement waterproofing sealer you first must determine what type of moisture you are experiencing and where it is coming from. Is the water coming in through a crack or cold seam? Is there an inch of water in the basement or is the concrete damp when you touch it? Are you experiencing mold or mildew or concrete sweating?
One of the easiest ways to determine the amount of moisture in your concrete is to perform a Calcium Chloride Test. Once you have the results you can then determine whether a penetrating concrete sealer, cementitious waterproof coating or a moisture vapor barrier coating is going to be the best option.
Concrete Driveway Sealer
Concrete driveways are one of the most common applications for concrete sealer; especially in cold weather climates. Local Department of Transportation’s use deicing salts and chlorides on the roadways during the winter to melt ice and snow. Salt is extremely corrosive to concrete and if left untreated it will result in damage. Even if you don’t salt your driveway, cars that drive on the roadways track in the deicing salts. Over time visible cracking, spalling and pitting may result. One of the easiest ways to prevent concrete deicing salt damage is to use a penetrating concrete sealer with a silane or silane/siloxane chemistry.
Patio Sealer
Patios can be made from a variety of materials including pavers, bricks, stone, slate, stamped concrete and broom finished concrete. Use a concrete sealer on any of these substrates. The primary purpose of sealing a patio can be decorative, to enhance the colors and textures. Or the purpose can be functional to protect from staining, or salt water exposure.
One of the most popular types of patio sealer is a wet look sealer. A wet look sealer is usually of an acrylic or urethane chemistry. Once applied it leaves a glossy, wet look appearance. Although they are nice to look at for a few years they require regular maintenance to keep their original sheen. Over time the suns UV rays, acid rain, and weathering cause decorative wet look sealers to dull.
If you do not want to keep up with annual maintenance, a penetrating concrete sealer is a great option. Although the initial cost may be higher, in the long term the investment pays for itself.
Garage Floor Coating
Treat garage floors with a concrete sealer or a concrete coating. Sealers used on garage floors are typically penetrating concrete sealers that have stain repellent properties to resist oil and grease absorption. For information on oil repellent sealers read our review. Coatings used on garage floors are usually epoxy floor coatings. Epoxy floor coatings are durable protects that are able to withstand chemical exposure and heavy abrasions.