I Tested And Reviewed 9 Best Concrete Driveway Sealer (2023)

I recently had the opportunity to try out Eco Advance water-proofing sealant on my concrete patio and deck above my garage, and I must say, I am highly impressed with the results.

Before applying the sealant, I was experiencing issues with rainwater leaking through my patio and causing damage to the ceiling of my garage. However, after applying Eco Advance, I noticed a significant improvement. The only water that managed to get through was in a small area where I didn't apply thorough coverage. I would recommend applying 2-3 coats for optimal results, as one coat did a decent job but still had a few areas that leaked.

One of the things I really liked about Eco Advance is that it is water-based and can be easily applied with a garden sprayer. This made the application process quick and hassle-free. In fact, it took me just over an hour to apply the recommended two coats to my patio, which is approximately 480 square feet. It actually took longer for me to pressure wash the concrete beforehand.

During the application, I did notice that the product tended to pool in certain areas, especially on my wood-grain stamped concrete. However, this was easily solved by dabbing the excess with an old towel. It's worth noting that the product did not leave any marks or stains on the concrete, and it did not have an overpowering smell.

In terms of performance, Eco Advance delivered as promised. When it rained a few days after application, I observed that the water beaded up on the concrete and either ran off or evaporated over time. This gave me confidence that the sealant was effectively waterproofing my patio.

Another great aspect of Eco Advance is its affordability. It is reasonably priced and provides great value for the results it delivers. Additionally, the fact that it did not discolor any areas of my concrete was a huge plus. The parts I sprayed are still the same color as the untreated concrete, which is a testament to the product's quality.

I recently tried out a new water-based sealer for my concrete and brick surfaces, and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. Unlike the previous oil-based sealers I used, this product is easily applied with a garden sprayer and cleans up with just water. No more dealing with harsh chemicals!

The instructions recommended applying two coats, which I followed diligently. After three days of dry weather, I conducted a simple water test and was thrilled to see the water beading up on the surface. It's a great sign that the sealer is doing its job.

In addition to my concrete surfaces, I also applied the sealer to my brick windowsills and the side of my brick house where water tends to run down. I had noticed mold growth and cracking mortar in that area, but this sealer seems to have addressed those issues. I'm relieved to have found a long-lasting solution.

One of the major advantages of this water-based sealer is its ease of application. With my previous oil-based sealer, it would take me hours of hard work to apply it with a roller, followed by the time-consuming task of cleaning the roller, pole, and sealer pan. However, with this new product, I was able to apply it in just 45 minutes using a garden sprayer. As a 60-year-old, I highly recommend it for its convenience and efficiency.

I also appreciate that this sealer comes in a concentrated form. I purchased two bottles, each of which made 5 gallons. I used a 2-gallon sprayer and after five batches, I was able to cover my back patio, driveway, and side walkway. Although I can't say for sure if it would cover 1000sqft, as I used less than that for my 2000sqft area, it's worth noting that I may have over-applied it to ensure thorough saturation. Nevertheless, the results were impressive, with the cement retaining its normal look and feel while effectively repelling water.

Furthermore, the sealer dried clear and did not alter the color of my driveway. I poured a cup of water on it the next morning and it beaded up perfectly. I used approximately 7.5 gallons to apply two generous coats to my 1200 square feet driveway. The smell of the sealer was not unpleasant either; it reminded me of my tarp waterproofing wax.

I am a satisfied customer of the manufacturer's products and have used the Radonseal sealant on both my concrete basement floor and driveway. I initially used a different clear concrete sealant on half of my driveway, which left a semi-gloss appearance. However, I noticed a significant difference when I applied the Dryway sealant on the other half.

One of the main advantages of Dryway is its ability to repel water. When dry, the sealant is virtually invisible on the concrete surface. But when it rains or water is applied, the water beads up and rolls away on the portion where I used Dryway. The water simply does not penetrate the concrete, providing excellent protection against water damage. On the other hand, the area where I used the semi-gloss sealant experienced water penetration and had a slightly slick surface.

The Dryway sealant lives up to its claims of penetrating into the concrete. It effectively seals the surface, preventing water from seeping in and causing damage. This makes it an exceptional product for protecting driveways from pitting and spalling caused by winter de-icer and salt.

In terms of application, I found it easy to use the Dryway sealant. I pressure washed my driveway before applying it, and it only took 3.5 5-gallon buckets to cover my 3300 sqft driveway. I used a normal garden sprayer to spray the sealant and then spread it out with a deck brush to ensure even coverage. The sealant dried quickly, within an hour or sooner, allowing me to complete the project in a timely manner.

One thing to note is that the actual coverage of the sealant is about 80% of the product description. So it is advisable to order slightly more than what you think you need to ensure complete coverage.

I recently purchased the AR500 sealer for my 2008 stamped patio after extensive research. I had previously paid for professional sealing, but was disappointed with the results as the sealer faded and left a white haze. After reading numerous reviews, I decided to try this sealer for its "wet" look. My patio had not been sealed for over 2 years and was in dire need of rejuvenation. It had faded, and there were black spots from water accumulation.

The preparation process was time-consuming, especially trimming in the grooves. I learned a valuable lesson to invest in a metal canister sprayer and have someone back roll the sealer after spraying. This would have saved me a lot of time. The roller I used was 5/8", but I don't think using a 1" roller would have made a significant difference. Another helpful tip I came across was to pour the sealer with the open part of the can facing your hand, preventing any drips on the lid.

The sealer emits strong fumes, so I recommend closing windows during application and for a day while it dries. The sealer arrived in a convenient box with hand cut-outs, making it easy to carry to the back yard.

For the successful application, I used a small hand brush, large push broom, a 9" roller with a 5/8" nap and a long pole, a 3 or 4" paint brush, and a paint tray with disposable liners. Here are the steps I followed:

1. Cleaned the patio with Dawn dish soap and water using a handheld brush and a push broom with a bucket and hose. I avoided power washing to prevent potential damage.

2. Used a leaf blower to remove excess water and allowed the patio to dry for a couple of days.

3. Started sealing by trimming the edges and grooves with a paint brush, as rolling alone didn't penetrate these areas.

4. Let the sealer dry for a few days before returning the furniture to the patio.

5. After a few weeks, I noticed fading and white spots, along with some bubbles in the sealer. I contacted Foundation Armor, who assured me that a second coat would resolve the issues. I should have used xylene to remove the bubbles, but I didn't.

6. Approximately 2.5 months later, I applied a second coat using a roller and minimized the use of the paint brush for trimming. Before sealing, I rinsed off any pollen or debris with a hose and allowed it to dry for a few days.

7. After another week, I noticed a few light spots due to the uneven surface of the patio. I used the paint brush to touch up these areas by hand. Some bubbles remained in the thicker areas of the sealer, even after the second coat and touch-up.

8. Finally, I waited a few more days and placed the patio furniture back in its place. The project was complete, and I am pleased with the outcome.

A stamped patio is a significant investment, and proper sealing is essential to maintain its appearance. I plan to apply one more coat in the spring since I have leftover sealer. According to the instructions, it should remain usable for a year. For reference, my patio measures 20' x 25', and I purchased the 5-gallon bucket.

After experiencing frustration with our Unilock pavers becoming dirty and hazy due to washed-out polymeric sand, we decided to try sealing them to prevent further issues. We chose the Foundation Armor sealer and are extremely pleased with the results. Our patio, which is approximately 450 sq. ft., now looks clean and beautiful, even after heavy rains. Finally, we can enjoy our patio without the constant need for cleaning.

One thing we noticed when researching sealers was that people had differing opinions on the finish. Some claimed to achieve a nice wet look, while others were disappointed with the lack of shine. After seeing the results on our pavers, we understand why there is such variation. The final appearance depends on the surface texture of your pavers. If you have dense and smooth pavers, like the Unilock Copthorne pavers we used, you will achieve a glossy finish. However, if your pavers are more textured, such as a sandstone finish, the result will be a light sheen rather than a glossy look. This is something to keep in mind when choosing a sealer based on your desired outcome.

We applied the Foundation Armor sealer using an inexpensive pump sprayer and a roller on a pole. Each coat took us about an hour and a half to two hours to complete on our 450 sq. ft. patio. It was helpful to have two people, with one spraying and the other rolling. We did encounter a minor issue with the roller nap shedding onto the patio like fine strings of cotton candy, but we discovered that this was due to either not applying enough sealer or attempting to cover too large an area at once. By applying more product and working on smaller sections, we were able to avoid this problem. We also found that rolling at a 45-degree angle before finishing with fast straight strokes worked well for our herringbone patterned pavers.

When pouring the sealer into the sprayer, we recommend using a funnel to avoid getting sealant on the sprayer's threads. We made the mistake of skipping the funnel on the second day and ended up unable to unscrew the top for cleaning. Using a funnel would have prevented this issue and saved us from having to discard the sprayer. Additionally, while we did not use any non-slip additives, we did notice that the sealed pavers are slightly more slippery than the unsealed ones. If you have smoother pavers or are applying the sealer to a heavily used sidewalk, it may be worth considering adding a non-slip additive for safety.

We followed all the application instructions provided by Foundation Armor and experienced no hazing or clouding on our pavers. It is important to note that you should have approximately 24 hours of dry weather both before and after applying the sealer for optimal results. The most challenging part of the project was waiting for suitable weather conditions, but our patience paid off with excellent results.

The product I purchased provided an incredible glossy finish to my pavers, giving my backyard a beautiful showroom look. I am extremely satisfied with the end result and it has given me a great sense of pride in my outdoor space. However, I do want to mention some important details regarding the preparation process, which can be quite laborious. Please keep the following points in mind:

1) It is crucial to wait for a week with temperatures ranging between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and low humidity, even during the night. This optimal weather condition ensures the best outcome. Before applying the product, clean a spare paver or choose a hidden section of your property to test it on. Use the 4oz tester, which comes in a spritz bottle. Once the paver is dry, spritz it until the surface becomes milky white and wet, stopping just before it starts to run. Do not use a sponge or surface roll; splatters or dots are acceptable. You might notice milky spots, but don't be alarmed. Let it be.

2) The next day, when the weather conditions are still ideal, apply a second coat by spritzing the paver again. Remember to spray slowly and cover the surface, stopping just before it becomes too wet. It may not look appealing at this stage, but trust the process. Now, leave it exposed to the sun for about a week. Yes, it requires patience.

3) After a full week, inspect the paver to see the result. The surface should be smooth, glossy, and have a slight shimmer to it. If you have followed the instructions correctly and it doesn't meet your expectations, then this product may not be suitable for your needs. However, if it looks and feels great, proceed to the next step. Please note that this part of the process is meticulous and time-consuming, but it is crucial for the best outcome.

Now, let's talk about the preparation process:

1) It is advisable to order sealer in a quantity that is double the manufacturer's specifications. While they state 400 square feet per gallon, I found that I needed one gallon per 200 square feet. However, factors such as temperature, humidity, porosity, and material can affect the quantity needed and drying time.

2) I highly recommend purchasing the Chapin International 61500 Backpack Sprayer for Fertilizer and assembling it. Additionally, order an extra-large wide mouth funnel for convenience.

3) Before applying the sealer, prepare the paver surface properly:

– Use a weed killer to eliminate any plant life on, in, around, or between the pavers. Allow 24-48 hours for the weed killer to take effect.

– With a jet nozzle hose attachment, use your garden hose to spray the crevices between the pavers, removing any sand and soil. You can use a combination of the jet nozzle and a brush to ensure thorough cleaning.

By following these steps, you can achieve the desired results with this product. However, please be aware that the preparation process can be tiring and time-consuming. Take your time and be patient, as the end result will be worth it.

I recently needed a sealer for my slate tiles to protect them from the harsh winters in Wisconsin. After experiencing some issues with my previous sealer, I decided to give Wet Look from Black Diamond a try. I was initially concerned about the sealer darkening my tiles and grout, but after reading other reviews, I decided to go ahead with it.

The application process was straightforward. I used a large-pored sponge to apply the sealer, which went on as a milky blue liquid, ensuring even coverage and preventing puddling. Initially, the sealer darkened the grout and gave the slate a slightly lighter appearance. However, as it dried, the grout returned to its original color, while the slate gained a beautiful sheen. The results were exactly what I was looking for.

I was also impressed with the sealer's performance after it rained. The water beaded on the slate, similar to how it does on a freshly waxed car. This not only added to the aesthetic appeal but also reassured me of the sealer's effectiveness.

In terms of price and results, I believe Wet Look offers excellent value for money. It is a cost-effective solution that provides a beautiful sheen to both the grout and the tiles. I couldn't be happier with the outcome of the application.

Additionally, I should mention that I recently found a bottle of Wet Look in my garage, which I had purchased four years ago. Despite its age, the product still worked effectively. I pressure washed my patio before applying three thin coats of the sealer using a kitchen sponge. The application process was quick and easy, taking me a total of 1 hour for a 280 sq ft area. There was still about 1/3 of the bottle left after completing the job.

The Armor SX5000 is a product with excellent water repellent properties. It is important to note, however, that certain precautions need to be taken when using this product. Firstly, it is highly recommended to use a professional respirator and full skin protection to avoid any potential rash or irritation. Some users have reported experiencing rashes on their neck and arms when using a normal respirator. Additionally, it has been observed that the product may cause damage to the o-ring and rubber parts of sprayers, leading to breakage during application. In such cases, using a roller to complete the sealing process is advised.

When applying the Armor SX5000 with a roller, users have found it to be very easy to apply, with the product soaking right into the surface. However, it is important to note that there is a strong chemical smell associated with this product, so proper ventilation is necessary. It is also recommended to avoid breathing in the fumes when bending over the pan. The drying time for the product is approximately one hour, and after drying, the surface appears uniform in color, without any patchiness. The coverage rate for the product when using a pump sprayer is approximately 125sq.ft/gallon in one coat for a concrete driveway.

Another positive aspect of the Armor SX5000 is that it does not change the appearance of the surface when it dries. This is a highly appreciated feature by users who have applied it to brick retaining walls. Before applying the product, it is recommended to power wash the surfaces and allow them to dry for a few days. The application process is simple, and wearing gloves is advised. Once the product dries, it becomes clear and does not alter the appearance of the surface.

Users have also found that the sealant applies easily, and any puddles that may occur during application can simply be broomed away to avoid a gray appearance. The product is highly effective in repelling water, and when dry, it is virtually invisible, as if nothing has been applied. Overall, users are extremely satisfied with the application and performance of this product.

Lastly, a user shared their experience of applying both the SX5000 and AR350 on a 3-month-old freshly poured driveway. They turned off their automatic sprinklers to ensure a successful application. It is worth noting that the SX5000 is petroleum-based and can damage normal garden sprayers, so multiple sprayers were required for the application process. The user applied 15 gallons of the SX5000 for a 2000 sq. ft. driveway and observed good coverage. After a day of drying, they applied the AR350 with a roller, which only required 10 gallons to cover the same area. The user plans to apply a second coat and expects to use around 6-7 gallons. So far, the results have been impressive, and the user is hopeful for the longevity of the product.

I recently tried out the GhostShield 8500 concrete sealant and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. Living in NE Ohio, where road salt can be very damaging to concrete, I was looking for a product that would provide a waterproof surface and protect against this corrosive substance. The GhostShield 8500 did not disappoint.

The application process was a breeze. I used a 1-gallon sprayer with the full strength sealant and within a couple of hours, it had cured even at a low temperature of 40°F in early December. The result was a waterproof surface that repelled road salt and made it easy to keep clean. I found that oil drops could be easily removed with warm water and Simple Green.

One of the things that impressed me the most was the water repellency of the sealed concrete. After 24 hours, I turned on my lawn sprinklers and the water completely beaded up and ran off the surface. There was absolutely zero water penetration into the concrete. This gives me confidence that the sealant will protect against moisture-related issues such as black mold buildup.

In terms of price and delivery, I found the GhostShield 8500 to be reasonably priced and the delivery was fast. I am so satisfied with the product that I have already purchased three more for future use. The initial two bottles I bought were used as a test and it definitely passed with flying colors.

I must also mention that the application process was made easier by the fact that the sealant did not alter the color of the concrete. This is a big plus for those who want to maintain the original look of their driveway or walkway.