The Best Sealant to Use on a Concrete Driveway

Acrylic Sealants

• Acrylic-resin based sealers are a widely used type of film-forming sealant. Inexpensive and high-performing, they are mixed with polyurethanes, silicones or epoxies to increase water resistance and durability. Styrene acrylic is lower performing and can yellow from exposure to sunlight. Virgin or pure acrylic resins last for years and are non-yellowing. A few key packaging words that indicate a high-quality sealant are "breathability", "water-resistant" and "non-yellowing".

Penetrating Sealants

• Penetrating sealants include epoxies, polyurethanes and penetrating resins. While epoxy and polyurethanes are more expensive, they are not necessarily the best choice for a driveway. These sealants have a higher build, which creates a slippery surface. They also block moisture from evaporating from concrete, eventually causing a foggy, white haze to build up between the concrete and sealant.

Sealant Tips

• Concrete sealant is simple to apply with a spray pump or roller paint brush. It dries in less than a day, but you should wait about three weeks to seal a newly poured driveway. Always clean concrete of debris and stains before sealing it. Apply one or two thin coats and avoid leaving puddles or drips.

Maintenance

• Sealant makes it easier to clean concrete because it blocks acids and grease from seeping into pores. Make a weekly routine of sweeping the surface of debris and scrub off any grease or oil stains with a concrete stain remover. Depending on the amount of use and sunlight the driveway is exposed to, re-applying the sealant every two to three years will keep the driveway in the best possible condition.