Different types of concrete will require different types of sealers. Different types of projects will also require different types of sealers. Sealers come in many different varieties and types that offer many different benefits and protective aspects. The two biggest different categories of sealers are surface and topical sealers versus penetrating sealers.
Surface sealers, like acrylics, are better used to more porous concrete. Most decorative concrete tends to be more porous, which makes acrylic sealers the only logical choice. Similarly, the decorative concrete is more delicate, which makes a surface sealer the best choice to preserve the concrete’s structural integrity and visual appeal. If you use a penetrating sealer on a driveway, patio, or pool deck made of pavers, for instance, the results would not be at all what you want. Not only would the concrete remain unprotected, the sealer would be absolutely wasted. Instead, choose an acrylic sealer for the porous concrete. Acrylic sealers feature large particles of sealant that pool on the surface of the concrete to be spread out evenly during the application process. As the particles are large, they will not penetrate into the concrete, instead remaining on the surface to form a type of barrier, similar to a raincoat, to protect your concrete.
Penetrating sealers like silicates, on the other hand, operate a little differently. As such they are also better choices for different projects and different types of concrete. Penetrating sealers are typically used on stronger and more traditional concrete, as found in garages, basements, and foundations. These sealers are made up of particles of sealant that are extremely small. When the sealer is applied to a concrete surface, the particles of sealant slip through the tiny surface pores natural to the concrete, traveling throughout the material via the extensive network of microscopic cracks and pores that all concrete has as a result of its mixing process. These sealers react chemically with the concrete to increase its strength and block out water from entering, which is different from the acrylic sealer that bonds to the surface to form a barrier. Neither is necessarily better than the other; rather, they are each just better suited to different projects and different types of concrete.
Our Take: Penetrating sealers like the Ghostshield formulas work well and can be purchased through HomeDepot.com.
