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Concrete driveways, garage floors, pathways, and other structures are susceptible to damage from the elements. However, with one or more layers of concrete coating, you can protect hard surfaces from scuffs, cracks, water damage, and other threats.
Concrete sealers can help reduce or eliminate long-term damage from moisture, but finding the right one for your needs depends on a variety of factors. Overall, you can expect to spend somewhere between $30 to $75 per gallon for high-quality sealer, but some come in larger quantities that have a higher price point.
To help you find the best concrete sealer for you, The This Old House Reviews Team researched the top models on the market. Overall, our top choice is the TotalBoat Concrete Coating sealer, which has an epoxy formula that leaves a long-lasting high-gloss finish that works on a variety of materials. Read our guide below for more of our top picks, as well as the biggest factors to look for when buying concrete sealer, and the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Best Concrete Sealers: Our Top 7 Picks
- Best Sealer Overall: TotalBoat Concrete Coating
- Best Acrylic Sealer: Foundation Armor Concrete Sealer
- Best Penetrating Sealer: Ghostshield Siloxa-Tek Concrete Sealer
- Best Glossy Sealer: Black Diamond Stoneworks Stone Sealer
- Best Sealer for Basem*nts: RadonSeal Concrete Sealer
- Most Eco-Friendly: Eco-Tuff Clear Coat Concrete Sealer
- Best Value: MasonryDefender Penetrating Concrete Sealer
Compare Top Concrete Sealers
| Product | Formula | Quantity | Application | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TotalBoat Concrete Coating | Epoxy | One gallon | Two-part application | 12.8 square feet |
| Foundation Armor Concrete Sealer | Arcylic-based | Five gallons | Pre-mixed | 175 square feet per coat per gallon |
| Ghostshield Siloxa-Tek Concrete Sealer | Water-based | One gallon | Pre-mixed | 250 square feet per coat per gallon |
| Black Diamond Stoneworks Stone Sealer | Acrylic-based | One quart | Pre-mixed | 600 square feet |
| RadonSeal Concrete Sealer | Water-based | Five gallons | Pre-mixed | 250 square feet per coat per gallon |
| Eco-Tuff Clearcoat Concrete Sealer | Hybrid bio-polyurethane | One gallon | Multi-part application | 300-400 square feet per gallon |
| MasonryDefender Penetrating Concrete Sealer | Water-based | One gallon | Pre-mixed | 90-150 square feet per gallon |
| Product | Formula | Quantity | Application | Coverage |
Best Concrete Sealer Overall
TotalBoat Concrete Coating
- $59.99
- $73.99
- 19% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This epoxy resin provides a high-gloss, heat-resistant finish. Though it has a complicated two-part application process with separate resin and hardener, it’s versatile because it works on concrete, wood, stone, ceramic, metal, and other surfaces.
Pros Can withstand heat Produces a high-gloss finish Is compatible with concrete, ceramic, metal, stone, wood, and other materials
Cons Covers less square footage than other concrete Requires more steps to apply
What Are People Saying About TotalBoat Concrete Coating?
In our review-focused research, we learned that many customers were surprised at how thick this concrete sealer was, as this helped it better protect surfaces. Unfortunately, bubbling was an issue for many customers, and they found the application instructions confusing.
“This worked just as well as more expensive brands at a much lower price. Highly Recommended. No horrible fumes while curing and it is safe for kitchen and bathroom countertops according to the studies I’ve read.” — Roger Palmer via Amazon
“Let me tell you, I have never had so many bubbles in my resin before. I do like the self-leveling, however, the bubbles really get to me. I have tried a heating pad, a warm water bath, and letting it sit for a few minutes. Nope, bubbles are still there. I would also like to point out it isn’t because it is too cold I take steps to make sure my craft station is warm enough. On the positive side, it sets a smidge faster than others. I probably won’t order again.” — Danielle via Amazon
Best Acrylic Concrete Sealer
Foundation Armor Concrete Sealer
- $224.39
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This acrylic concrete sealer is a viable solution to protect your concrete surfaces from freezing, thawing, scratching, scuffing, and other damage. It covers indoor or outdoor surfaces with a low-gloss finish. Though it requires multiple coats, it comes in a sizeable 5-gallon drum.
Pros Works on sealed and unsealed surfaces Has a non-yellowing formula Works for indoor and outdoor applications
Cons Comes in a heavy drum May be difficult to open
What Are People Saying About Foundation Armor Concrete Sealer?
Although the 5-gallon drum was challenging for some customers to open, our research indicated that many found it easy to apply the sealer using the recommended instructions. When applied correctly, water and other liquids beaded on the concrete rather than soaking into it. However, a few reviewers claimed that one application only lasted a few months.
“This product is amazing! It was so easy to apply. I used a 3/8″ roller, and it went on so evenly, and it dries really fast too. It looks so beautiful and shiny! The concrete darkened a bit which is what I was hoping for. It rained during the night after I applied the product but it did not do any damage. The rain did not penetrate the concrete. It sat on top in little droplets. I absolutely love this product!” — RT via Amazon
“….While it was easier to apply, the petroleum stench of this product lasted a full week, as opposed to a few hours with the 2-part epoxy. More importantly, the adhesion was nearly as good, even when I applied it at least as heavy as the other product was. Yes, it was washed and sanded properly, plenty of time to dry in the summer sun, too. But it is coming apart slowly and will have to be redone in several areas.” — Kindle doubledoc via Amazon
Best Penetrating Concrete Sealer
Ghostshield Siloxa-Tek Concrete Sealer
- $69.88
Prices taken at time of publishing.
For an environmentally friendly concrete sealer that contains a limited amount of volatile organic compounds, we recommend Ghostshield. Its water-based acrylic formula quickly breaks through the layers of your concrete surfaces, creating a lasting shield to protect against chemicals, cracks, and more. Plus, it won’t change the appearance of your concrete driveway or sidewalk.
Pros Is engineered to reduce water and moisture intrusion Penetrates concrete rapidly without changing its appearance Covers up to 250 square feet per coat
Cons Works best if you apply multiple coats Has a water-based formula that doesn’t last as long as thicker sealers
What Are People Saying About Ghostshield Siloxa-Tek Concrete Sealer?
According to our consumer-based research, customers found this penetrating concrete sealer to be easy to apply. They also said that it provided superior resistance to stains and other blemishes. However, a minority of reviewers said they experienced water leaks through cinder blocks and other gaps in their concrete features. Others stated that the provided instructions were unclear and incomplete.
“Worked great using a pump sprayer and a four-inch roller to spread evenly. Does not clog up your sprayer and rinses out easily with water. During a hard rain after applying the product… water just beaded up on the concrete! Very happy with the finished look as the concrete looks like a satin finish and is not glossy or slippery.” — P. Schelling via Amazon
“Seems to be a quality product but it may not be for amateur DIYers. The instructions are a little confusing as they are very relative. You are supposed to spray enough down on the first coat for it to stay wet for at least a few minutes. I honestly have no idea how to gauge that. Then you are supposed to spray the second coat on when the first one is still wet. But how long are you supposed to wait in between coats? Not sure…. I assume it’s an application issue, as the product clearly works. I would avoid doing this on your own if you have never done it before.” — Josiah Augenstein via Amazon
Best Glossy Concrete Sealer
Black Diamond Stoneworks Stone Sealer
- $34.98
- $39.98
- 13% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Those who like the wet look of freshly settled concrete will enjoy this high-gloss sealer. It works on exposed aggregate, stamped concrete, colored concrete, and other surfaces. We like that it’s available in a range of bottle sizes, including one quart and one gallon.
Pros Is suitable for concrete, slate, brick, and stone Has a minimal odor Gives surfaces a wet look without darkening them
Cons Can’t be applied to surfaces in direct sunlight Isn’t approved for polished granite or marble application
What Are People Saying About Black Diamond Stoneworks Stone Sealer?
Our team found reviews by numerous customers who were pleased with the value of this concrete sealer, stating that one bottle covered large surfaces in their entirety. Users were also pleased with its glossy shine and fast drying time. Alternatively, we learned that a few customers were dissatisfied, reporting that their concrete and stone surfaces only looked glossy for a few days. Others shared that the finish turned hazy after six months and stopped repelling oils and other liquids.
“…We have an exterior slate tile patio (covered) that is about 20 years old. This wet-look sealer brought it back to life! I am amazed at the finished result. Doesn’t look patchy and didn’t leave any pockets of residue. Clean and consistent look. Saved thousands on replacement options.” — James Cook via Amazon
“…I put it on my natural stone brick and it did absolutely nothing after it dried. I could not tell any difference from any other bricks at all, and I applied it on pretty heavy, it looks no different than all the other bricks. So if you’re looking for waterproofing with no added shine maybe this is it. But if you’re looking for enhancement of any kind, this will not be the one.” — John’s Plumbing and Rooter via Amazon
Best Concrete Sealer for Basem*nts
RadonSeal Concrete Sealer
- $229
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Radon gas is often a concern with basem*nts because it seeps through the concrete floors as the soil underneath decays. If you’re already going through the trouble of sealing concrete basem*nt floors, consider this penetrating sealer. Its formula contains a radon mitigation agent to protect against radon vapor and gas. It’s also non-toxic and non-flammable.
Pros Doesn’t create a surface film Has a water-based formula that’s free from volatile organic compounds Is resistant to hydrostatic water pressure
Cons Is only available in a five-gallon bucket Doesn’t work as well on concrete that’s over 20 years old
What Are People Saying About RadonSeal Concrete Sealer?
Per our research into buyer reviews, customers praised this concrete sealer for its versatility, citing that the radon-mitigating and sealing qualities were ideal for renovating basem*nts. Many were also pleased with the penetrating formula. Others believed that hiring a radon mitigation professional would prove more effective than using a concrete sealer, noting that some moisture was still seeping through even after applying multiple coats.
“Phenomenal. Had a few spots, and moisture would seep into the basem*nt. I cleaned the surfaces thoroughly and applied them as outlined in the instructions. I let the product cure for about three days before drywalling over. It’s crazy the amount of impurities it pushes out of the concrete. We’ve had a very wet summer, fall, and winter this year and I’ve detected no moisture in the treated area.” — Brandon M. via Amazon
“My garage floor has developed a moisture problem, and this appeared to be a product that would solve it. Sodium silicate should seal concrete, but the moisture is still leaching through after multiple coats. The paint store recommended breathable floor paint, and the moisture rings have reappeared.” — PACO via Amazon
Most Eco-Friendly
Eco-Tuff Clear Coat Concrete Sealer
- $78.98
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This sealer stands out from competitors due to its ingredients. It uses non-toxic, plant-based materials and is completely free of off-gassing and Red List chemicals (chemicals that are particularly harmful to humans). Additionally, this sealer is nearly completely odorless.
Pros Provides excellent surface resistance from abrasion, water, UV, and more Is available in gloss, matte, or satin Can be applied with sprayers, trim pads, rollers, or a brush
Cons Requires multiple coats for best usage Requires up to an hour wait between applications
Good for: Homeowners looking for an odorless sealer that’s non-toxic and plant-based.
What Are People Saying About Eco-Tuff Clear Coat Concrete Sealer?
Our team found that customers who gave this product a positive review liked that it was easy to apply and a non-toxic formula. Others also were impressed with its odorless application. However, there were a few negative reviews that felt it was too thin, and others said it needed multiple coatings.
“Looks great on concrete, no fumes, easy application, non-toxic. Liquids bead up and run right off. Have had some of their other products on surfaces for years now with no signs of wear.” — Christopher via Amazon
“Sealing plywood floors for use inside a conversion van. Product does what it says it’ll do. Not the most beautiful stain if you’re looking for a cabinetry or counter sealer, but more than adequate for sealing the subfloor without dealing with polyurethane fumes. Needed three coats with a brush.” — Maitreya J Sriram via Amazon
Best Value
MasonryDefender Penetrating Concrete Sealer
- $37.49
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Concrete sealer can be pricey, so if you’re looking for a basic sealer that will provide excellent value on your patio, driveway, or sidewalk without breaking the bank, this is an excellent choice. This sealer provides a long-lasting, non-glossy coat that’s breathable and waterproof. One gallon can provide up to 150 square feet of coverage, and it utilizes a low-pressure sprayer that’s easy to apply.
Pros Provides an invisible coat without altering appearance Is long-lasting and easy to apply Is backed by a three-year warranty
Cons Not designed for walkways or indoor use Some customers said it left stains
Good for: Homeowners looking for an affordable sealer that works well on patios and driveways.
What Are People Saying About MasonryDefender Penetrating Concrete Sealer?
Our team noted that customers who liked this sealer said that it dried quickly and covered a large area. Others were impressed with its spraying application, noting how easy it was to use.
However, some reviewers felt it didn’t always protect against weather, and some said that it left stains.
“Great product, I am very pleased with the product. I used it on a concrete pad I had put down for a dog kennel. It was easy to apply, dried quickly and I had no stains on my new concrete (as reported by others). Additionally, [it] covered much more area than I thought it would, so now I can use some around my pool. I am very pleased with the product.” —Susan via Amazon
“It was supposed to be a final touch after power washing, but it made the concrete look so much worse! It gave it a very uneven color and a dirty ugly appearance. Functionally, it works well and the water doesn’t penetrate the concrete.” —kapi via Amazon
What To Know Before Buying Concrete Sealer
To keep the concrete features around your home in good condition for years to come, it’s important to seal them with the proper type of concrete sealer. If you’re unsure about which one to use, there are several factors you should take into consideration. First, you’ll need to determine if an acrylic, epoxy, or penetrating sealer is best for your needs. From there, take time to consider factors such as the amount of sealer in the package, the application and packaging type, the drying time, the life expectancy, and if you need it for indoor or outdoor use. Read our buying guide below for more information about choosing the best concrete sealer.
Concrete Sealer Type
There are three main types of concrete sealing products:
Acrylic Sealer
Acrylic provides solid protection at a reasonably inexpensive price point. For increased durability, you can blend acrylic-based concrete sealers with epoxy, silicone, or polyurethane.
Try to look for virgin or pure acrylic rather than styrene acrylic. The latter is known to develop a yellow color under direct sunlight.
Epoxy Sealer
Also known as polyurethane sealers, epoxy concrete sealants cost more than acrylic ones. However, rather than providing a soft finish that lasts one to three years, a quality epoxy sealer can protect your concrete for five to 10 years. Though durable, they limit a surface’s permeability because they’re considerably thick. You can upgrade your garage floor with epoxy, but keep in mind many epoxies have two parts.
Penetrating Sealer
Specialty resins, such as silicones, siloxanes, and silanes, mix to create a sealer that penetrates deep beneath the surface of the concrete. This chemical barrier acts as a water repellent, preventing materials like oil, mildew, and other contaminants from damaging the concrete. We recommend penetrating sealers where stains are common, such as on a concrete driveway or garage floors.
Sealer Amount
Consider how much area you must cover and how many coats of sealer the job will require. The area a concrete sealer covers is typically measured in square feet. You can usually purchase concrete sealers in containers ranging from 1 quart to 5 gallons in size.
Packaging
Many sealers come in a bottle with a cap. On the other hand, heavy-duty, commercial-grade concrete sealers may come in a large bucket or barrel. Generally, smaller containers are easier to open and pour. You want to avoid accidentally spilling too much sealer in an area where it’s not needed.
Concrete Sealer Drying Time
Depending on the weather conditions, the average drying time for concrete sealers is about 2 hours. However, overcast weather or high humidity could extend the drying time to 3–4 hours.
Indoor Applications
Water-based sealers are the way to go for indoor concrete surfaces. This is because they don’t contain as many flammable, potent chemicals. However, you can still apply solvent-based acrylic sealers indoors if there’s proper ventilation.
Sealer Life Expectancy
The longevity of your concrete sealer is largely determined by how well it’s applied and maintained. Thick, premium sealers, such as epoxies and urethanes, generally outlast acrylic sealers by at least a few years.
How To Maintain Your Concrete Surfaces
Applying a high-quality concrete sealer is important, but it’s only one of the necessary steps to take when you’re caring for your driveway, patio, walkway, garage floor, and other concrete surfaces. Here are some other tips for cleaning and maintaining the concrete around your home:
- Use a pressure washer: Pressure washing gives you the satisfaction of seeing built-up grime wash away instantly. If you don’t have a pressure washer, you can rent one from a home improvement store or borrow one from a neighbor.
- Clean spills: Immediately address any food, oil, or other spills on your concrete surfaces. A good concrete sealer can only do so much, and the longer the spill sits on your concrete, the more likely it is to stain or seep in.
- Check for cracks: Regularly inspect your concrete for any cracking or deterioration.
- Sweep debris: Though sweeping may not seem like a big deal, it’s key to keeping your concrete looking as good as possible. When you’re doing yard work, make sure to sweep away any excess debris.
FAQ About Concrete Sealers
Why should I seal my concrete?
Without sealant, new concrete is vulnerable to damage from water, salt, oil, sunlight, and more. While you don’t need to seal your concrete surfaces, they last longer when you do.
Is concrete sealer toxic?
Yes and no. Many modern concrete sealers are considered non-toxic, with no volatile organic compounds or a minimal amount.
However, all concrete sealers should be handled carefully because they contain other chemicals that could irritate your eyes, nose, skin, and throat.
How often should I reseal my concrete?
A thorough application of a soft, acrylic-based concrete sealer should last 1–3 years. Epoxy-based concrete sealers tend to last much longer, usually between 5–10 years. How much wear and tear your concrete areas are subjected to affects how frequently they must be resealed.
How do I know if I need to reseal my concrete?
Besides the passage of time itself, there are two telltale signs that it’s time to reseal your concrete:
- The surface of the sealer looks scratched, dull, dirty, or worn, or you notice abrasions or flaking.
- Water no longer beads on the surface of the concrete.
Who This Concrete Sealer Guide Is For
If you’re a first-time DIYer, a seasoned contractor, or somewhere in between, a concrete sealer will be an essential component of your toolkit. Our Reviews Team considered a variety of concrete sealers, including an acrylic concrete sealer, a penetrating concrete sealer, and more.
How We Selected the Best Concrete Sealers
To provide our readers with the best concrete coating recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of sealers with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature-set and selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home improvement space, from ceiling fans and floor coating to doorbell cameras and garage door openers.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
Questions or Comments?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
