Concrete in itself is not waterproof. However, you can waterproof your concrete to protect it from harsh environmental conditions. Sealing of concrete is a maintenance routine that should be done throughout the lifetime of the concrete. This is because it creates a barrier that allows trapped vapor to escape and also repels water. Not just this, it also increases the durability of your concrete. So the question then changes from can you waterproof your concrete to what is the best concrete waterproofing sealer?
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Contents
Types Of Concrete Sealer?
There are primarily two kinds of sealers. They are the penetrating sealer and the film-forming sealer.
Penetrating Sealer
Penetrating sealers fills the concrete and form a chemical barrier around it. It is also referred to as the impregnating concrete sealer. This is because it soaks into the concrete to keep water out. Siloxanes and silanes are the most common substances used to make penetrating sealers. On the upside, penetrating sealers last longer and do not change concrete’s appearance. On the downside, they are slightly more expensive.
Penetrating sealers are of two types: Solvent and water-based sealers. The solvent-based sealers have higher volatile organic compounds (VOC) and have more sheen compared to the water-based sealers.
Solvent-based Concrete Sealers
This type of concrete sealer is mostly used for the outdoor concrete surface to protect the surface. They do not exist as separate particles but are mixed with polymer for a clear solution. When the solvent evaporates from the sealer, the polymer chain gets closer until they become intertwined. A solvent-based sealer often results in a glossier finish.
Water-based Concrete Sealer
This type of sealer comes with a low VOC and a low sheen. However, unlike the solvent-based sealer, the polymer particles in a water-based sealer disperse and reunite when the sealer is applied to the concrete surface. So as the water evaporates, the particles bond together to form a continuous coating.
Film-Forming Sealer
A layer of acrylic or epoxy protects the concrete surface, and it gives a high-gloss and wet finish. Unlike the penetrating sealers, the film-forming sealers wear out faster. It forms a thin and protective film on your concrete’s surface and is available in solvent-and water-based formulations.
Best Concrete Waterproofing Sealer
The products below are some of the best concrete sealers that the market has to offer. Although they are not ranked in a specific order, each product is a potential solution to your concrete problem.
5 Gal Armor AR350 Solvent Based Acrylic Wet Look Concrete Sealer
A single gallon of the 5 Gal Armor AR350 solvent-based acrylic wet look concrete sealer can provide up to 200 square feet per coat coverage. However, coverage can vary depending on the application method and the porosity of the substrate. The solvent is manufactured in the USA from non-recycled resins and is self-priming. This means that it can be applied to paver surfaces, surfaces, and unsealed concrete. It is a breathable and a non-yellowing solvent-based acrylic that will darken your concrete to make them look wet and provide a durable low gloss finish. The product can last up to 3 years on exterior surfaces and up to 7 years on interior surfaces.
Pros
- Lasts between 3-7 years
- Reduces abrasion and deterioration
- Non-yellowing and UV resistant
Cons
- The smell takes a few days to dissipate
Siloxa-Tek 8500 Ready To Use Concrete Sealer
Waterproof, protect, and preserve your concrete with the Siloxa-Tek 8500 ready-to-use concrete sealer. The product contains a proprietary blend of siloxanes/silane to provide a clear concrete sealer that prevents chloride, deicing salt, and freeze-thaw damage. Besides, the product has a hydrophobic nature that prevents vapor transmission and moisture intrusion. It features advances in nanotechnology that provide deeper penetration by adding an extra layer of protection. It has a smaller molecular structure that allows for deeper penetration for increased performance.
Pros
- 100% breathable
- Increases abrasion resistance
- Protects against chloride ion penetration
Cons
- The sealer is thin you might have to chase it with the roller
Armor SX5000 WB DOT Approved Concrete Sealer
Another product of Foundation Armor, the Armor SX5000 WB DOT approved concrete sealer is a water-based breathable silane sealer that can be used on horizontal and vertical concrete, pavers, and bricks, whether inside or outside your home. The product is certified by DOT as effective to keep water out of your concrete. With up to 10-years performance, the sealer will maintain its natural unsealed feel and look. A gallon of the product will cover up to 100 FT2 in two coats. You can use it on floors and walls to reduce damages caused by ice, snow, environmental exposure, staining, and road salts.
Pros
- Manufactured in the USA
- Can last up to 10-years
- Reduces absorption of water on the surface by up to 95%
Cons
- The surface must be completely dry before application
Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant
Designed to be used on roofs, foundation, basement, concrete, metal, and wood, the liquid rubber waterproof sealant provides waterproofing effect to keep water out to the surface that it is used on. The product just like paint is easy to apply as all you need for application is a brush or a roller. It uses heavy coats to build up the waterproof membrane. The sealant is water-based and does not contain any solvent. By implication, it is an environmentally friendly product with no harmful odor and safe for pets and humans. You can use it without any special breathing apparatus inside and outside your home. See more basement waterproofing sealer.
Pros
- Environmentally friendly
- Vertical surface coverage
- Leftover can be reused
Cons
- Limited instruction
Premium Concrete Sealer
Premium concrete sealer contains a blend of siloxanes and silanes to restore, protect, and extend the life of your concrete. The product contains another ingredient called Micro-Lok, an additive that ensures lasting mechanical bond and a hydrophobic barrier that cannot be affected by weather, dirt, temperatures, UV, and rain. To clean after application, use soap and water on the surface or any other surface that is over-sprayed. You should also apply in cold weather temperature but the second coat can be applied on damp surfaces.
Pros
- Penetrates deep
- Great winterizing agent
- Prevents growth of mold and mildew
Cons
- Difficult to apply with a roller
Jetcoat Cool King Elastomeric Acrylic Coating
Recommended for use on different surfaces including roofs, polyurethane foam, wood, and concrete, the Jetcoat cool king elastomeric acrylic coating provides a fortified coating that keeps promises 5-years protection for your concrete surface. A gallon covers between 50-70 square feet per coat, and two coats should be used to get the best result. When applying, ensure that the temperature is set at a minimum of 600 and rising. This means that you should not apply the coat when the temperature is below 600. The coat dries to touch within 3 hours, however, you should wait for 6-8-hours before applying the second coat. See more best waterproof sealer for wood.
Pros
- Variety of surfaces
- 5-year protection
- Easy to use
Cons
- Thin
Lastiseal Concrete Stain And Sealer
A product of Randon Seal, the LastiSeal concrete stain and sealer comes with a 15-year waterproofing warranty as a concrete sealer and concrete stain. The product seals your concrete against water, spalling, salts, and efflorescence. Featuring a semi-translucent variegated look, the sealant is similar to acid staining except that it offers many more colors. It penetrates deep into the concrete to strengthen and waterproof it. The product does not have a strong odor and has an easy application. A single application is recommended for this product, however, you can make a light application later, provided it absorbs.
Pros
- Attractive variegated look
- 15-year waterproofing warranty
- No odor
Cons
- Must not over apply
Drylok 275 Masonry Waterproofer
The Drylok 275 masonry waterproofer is designed to stop water from leaking through an existing masonry and protect new constructions. The formula, unlike ordinary paints that can be forced off by incoming water pressure, penetrates the pores in the surface to bond to the masonry and create an impenetrable barrier. The waterproofer can withstand up to 10 pounds of hydrostatic pressure, the equivalent of a 22-feet high wall of water. It comes with a 10-year warranty and offers a low-odor application. The product requires no pre-wetting or pre-mixing and protects against radon gas penetration by reducing vapor transfer.
Pros
- Withstand 10-pounds hydrostatic pressure
- 10-year warranty
- No pre-wetting necessary
Cons
- Will not stick to glaze block
AQUX-X 11 Clear Penetrating Concrete Sealer
AQUX-X 11 clear penetrating concrete sealer offers protection against mold, mildew, concrete spalling, and more. It also helps to maintain a clean natural appearance of your concrete driveway and maintain the durability of your concrete block retaining wall and unglazed cement tiles. To make application easy, the product allows you to breathe easily during application as it does not give off a foul odor and low VOCs. The concrete sealer comes with twice the coverage rate of up to 600 square feet per gallon and allows performs up to 5years before resealing.
Pros
- Breathe easily during application
- Twice the coverage rate
- 5-years before resealing
Cons
- A bit sticky
Armor WL550 Matte Wet Look Enhancer Sealer Concrete
Besides repelling water, the Armor WL550 Matte wet look enhancer sealer concrete enhances your concrete with a matter wet look finish. It does this by working below the surface and not on the surface. As a result, it does not leave behind a visible surface shine of a gloss. The chemical reacts below the surface and forms a water repellant barrier within the pores. This reduces deterioration and staining caused by the absorption of water and liquids on the surface. 5 gallons of the sealer will cover about 875 FTs in one coat, although coverage also depends on the porosity.
Pros
- Reduces staining and deterioration
- Forms a water repellant barrier
- Enhance surface with a matter wet-look finish
Cons
- Messy application
QUIKSERPro Medium
The name doesn’t exactly roll of well on the tongue, however, the QUIKSERPro medium offers a durable solution to your concrete water problem. Weighing just 1.5 LBS, the concrete sealer promises a-15mins fix for your concrete. It features a 300X lighter concrete solution that is 100X faster than the traditional method of concrete installation. Designed to be a fast, light, and durable innovation, the product is easy to use with no mess.
Pros
- Fast and light
- Innovative resin compound
- Durable
Cons
- Digging the hole can be stressful
DryWay Water-Repellant Concrete Sealer
The DryWay water-repellant concrete sealer is designed as a penetrating sealer for concretes, brick, and other porous masonry. The sealer protects against water penetration, deterioration, staining, and freeze. By treading the surface, the product reduces cracking, pitting, and spalling. It features an advanced water-based emulsion of siloxane and silane to form a concrete solution that does not form a film. It also contains small molecules that penetrate deep below the surface and react chemically with the substrate to form long-chain molecules. By allowing the substrate to breathe and dry out, the seal does not tray water vapor.
Pros
- There is no gloss
- Estimated service life of 10-years
- Resistant to oxidative degeneration
Cons
- The product might stain the driveway after a few years of use
Eco Advance EACON 16CON Waterproofer
Made in the USA, the Eco Advance EACON 16CON waterproofer is a spray-on formula that provides long-lasting protection for concrete. It is a commercial-grade water repellant that makes use of vapor transmission to permit substrate performance. This allows the substrate to cure and prevent moisture from being trapped in the substrate. The product does not harm landscape plantings and can be used on new concretes. It protects against UV degradation, dries without changing the surface appearance, and protects against water damage.
Pros
- Simple spray-on application
- Breathable
- Easy cleanup
Cons
- Can leave the floor slippery
Conclusion
You can’t go wrong as a buyer when you know what you want to buy. That is why we have provided you with a list of the Best concrete waterproofing sealer. Now you know what to buy and how to buy it. Happing shopping.