Concrete curbing is a great way to add some curb appeal to your home, but over time it can start to look a bit worse for wear. Because concrete is a porous material, it is susceptible to water absorption, which can lead to the growth of mold, mildew, and efflorescence.
Sealing your curbing will help prevent these issues and keep your curb looking great for a long time. But how do you find the best sealer for concrete curbing that will protect your investment? It’s not as difficult as you might think.
This article aims to help you select a sealer for concrete curbing based on your specific needs. We’ll also provide some suggestions for specific products that we think are worth considering.
Foundation Armor Silane Siloxane Penetrating Concrete Sealer
The Main Features Are:
👍 Does not change look or color
👍 One gallon covers 175 sq ft
👍 Reduces damage and deterioration
👍 Easy to apply and clean up
👍 Animal and plant-friendly
RainguardPro Penetrating Water Repellent Sealer
The Main Features Are:
👍 Zero VOCs and low odor
👍 Pro-grade multi surface sealant
👍 Water-repellent silane/siloxane
👍 Deeply penetrates the surface
👍 One gallon covers 300 square feet
MasonryDefender Penetrating Concrete Driveway Sealer
The Main Features Are:
👍 Chloride ion protection
👍 Siloxane-based waterproofer
👍 Invisible, non-glossy coating
👍 90 to 150 sq. ft. per gallon
👍 Eco-friendly silane
Is It Better To Roll or Spray Concrete Sealer?
It is better to roll sealer on concrete curbing rather than spray it. This will help avoid puddling and running of material and will also prevent whitening of the sealer.
Make sure the curb surface is clean and dry before application and that irrigation sprinklers are turned off. If rain is expected, postpone the sealing until later. Add a slip additive to the sealer for added slip resistance.
If a sealer is applied in too thick of a layer or if it is applied in heat, the results can be disastrous and unsightly. It is best to apply the sealer early in the day when the curbing surface is cool.
When To Seal Concrete Curbing?
Sealing your concrete curbing may seem tedious and unnecessary, but it’s actually quite crucial in maintaining the longevity of your curbs. With concrete sealing every two to five years, you can prevent cracks, pitting, and other damage.
Experts recommend waiting until 28 days after the initial pour to seal your curbings, giving the concrete time to cure fully. In reality, most sealers can be applied after this time frame. Applying a sealer is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to keep your curbs in good condition.
What Are the Best Concrete Landscape Curbing Sealers?
When it comes to concrete landscape curbing, there are a few things you need to consider to ensure your curb will last for a long time. One of the most important factors in choosing a suitable sealer.
There are several different types of sealers on the market, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The following are some of the best concrete sealers for curbing available:
1. Foundation Armor Silane Siloxane Penetrating Concrete Sealer
Foundation Armor silane siloxane penetrating concrete sealer is a high-quality sealer that can protect your surface against water absorption and other forms of damage.
It’s designed to be used on unsealed concrete, brick, pavers, masonry, and natural stone, and it won’t leave a surface film.
This product is also breathable, so the substrate will be able to breathe properly. Plus, it won’t change the look or color of the substrate. Roadways and bridges can also be protected against deterioration with this sealer.
What Makes This Product Helpful?
The Armor SX5000 WB sealer will protect your concrete curbing from weathering, staining, and fading. This product is easy to apply, UV stable, and long-lasting. It will not change the appearance of your surface and will not make it slippery when wet.
With the Armor SX5000 WB, you can rest assured that your concrete curbing is well-protected from the elements. It will be possible to maintain the appearance of your curb for decades with this product.
Good Things:
- Reduces water absorption by up to 95%
- Won’t alter substrate appearance or color
- Won’t leave behind a surface film
- Ready to use right out of the container
- Lasts up to 7 to 10 years
Deficiencies:
- Too much sealer may make it hard to clean up
2. RainguardPro Penetrating Water Repellent Sealer
This RainguardPro penetrating water repellent sealer is formulated to penetrate deep into the surface, inhibiting efflorescence, lime build-up, spalling, and other moisture damage. It dries invisibly to a stain-resistant finish that won’t yellow or alter surface texture or appearance.
It also forms a long-lasting filmless hydrophobic barrier against weathering, salt, dirt, UV light, wind-driven rain, freezing temperatures, and other harmful elements. Up to 300 square feet can be coated with one gallon of this sealant.
What Makes This Product Helpful?
If you’re looking for a professional-grade concrete sealer to protect your curbing, you can buy RainguardPro. This sealer is easy to apply, repels water well, and won’t change the color of your concrete.
You can also enjoy your patio or outdoor shower for years because it’s durable and long-lasting. It’s also easy to clean and won’t be damaged by accidental spills. On a sloped surface, you don’t have to worry about it running off if you apply it gently and in small amounts.
Good Things:
- Safe to use indoors or outdoors
- Creates a long-lasting hydrophobic barrier
- Repels water, dirt, and other damaging elements
- It won’t yellow or change the look of the surface
- Applied with a brush, pump sprayer, or airless sprayer
Deficiencies:
- Some users say provided instructions aren’t clear
3. MasonryDefender Penetrating Concrete Driveway Sealer
MasonryDefender penetrating concrete driveway sealer bonds with the minerals in concrete and masonry to provide long-lasting water protection.
This sealant prevents water from seeping into the concrete over time and resists ice melt salts, freeze-thaw damage, chloride ions, and efflorescence stains.
Using a low-pressure garden sprayer, 1 gallon of sealer will provide 90-150 square feet of coverage. The product is also effective for weather-damaged concrete curbing.
What Makes This Product Helpful?
MasonryDefender sealer for concrete curbing is a durable product that will keep your driveway looking new. The sealer will protect the concrete from cracking and pitting, which can be caused by moisture seeping into the surface over time.
This sealer is also breathable, so it will not alter the color or appearance of the concrete. After the sealer is applied, water will bead on the surface instead of seeping in, so you won’t have to worry about further damage. The sealer will protect the driveway from mold, mildew, and moisture.
Good Things:
- It defends against cracking and pitting
- Long-lasting protection for concrete surface
- Won’t change the color or appearance of concrete
- Easy to apply with a low-pressure pump sprayer
- Protects against salt and freeze-thaw damage
Deficiencies:
- This sealer might make dark spots appear more on light concrete
These three sealers are all good choices for concrete curbing. They will not only protect the concrete from moisture, but they will also enhance the driveway’s appearance.
Other Two Best Concrete Curbing Sealers?
While the above mentioned three products are the best concrete curbing sealers, here are two others that didn’t make the top three but are still good choices. Because they’re less expensive, they might be a better option if you’re on a budget.
➤ Ghostshield Silane Siloxane Penetrating Waterproof Sealer
Ghostshield Silane Siloxane penetrating waterproof sealer is a great product for any concrete pavers or curbings. It is an industrial-grade sealer that helps reduce water and moisture intrusion while protecting the surface from chloride and deicing salts.
This sealer is ideal for use on concrete driveways, garages, basements, patios, and pool decks. One gallon of the sealer can cover up to 250 square feet. The sealer dries clear and has low VOCs.
What Makes This Product Helpful?
If you are looking for a sealer that can offer deep penetration and water repellency, then Ghostshield may be a good choice. With its nanotechnology-driven composition, it can offer excellent protection against water damage and freeze/thaw cycles.
It is also DOT-approved and can be applied to cured, honed, and polished concrete surfaces. Over time, this product will not discolor due to its UV resistance.
Good Things:
- Water and salt repellent
- Low VOCs and easy to apply
- Dries clear with no color change
- Increases abrasion resistant
- Resists moisture intrusion
Deficiencies:
- Slightly more expensive than its quantity
- It may not be as effective on concrete that’s fully porous
➤ AQUA-X Sealer for Concrete and Stone
AQUA-X sealer for concrete and stone is a professional-grade product designed to protect concrete and stone from weathering and staining. The sealer comes in a milky white liquid form but will dry clear.
It is water-based and water-repellent and protects against freeze-thaw, pitting, and salt damage. Aqua-X sealer is easy to apply with a spray-on application and has a fast dry time. This product is also low VOC and has no harsh odor, making it safe to use indoors.
What Makes This Product Helpful?
Aqua-X is a top-quality sealer that can also be used to seal concrete curbing. The sealer is easy to apply and provides a durable finish that protects the concrete from damage. Adding sealer to concrete makes it look new and polished, enhancing its appearance.
Pump sprayers make it easy to apply and don’t require a lot of concrete sealers. The Aqua-X sealer is also reasonably priced, making it a great value. Therefore, Aqua-X sealer is a good choice for sealing concrete curbing.
Good Things:
- Beads water like a good wax job on a car
- Simple and quick application
- It can be applied to freshly poured concrete
- 100-400 sq ft per gallon on concrete surfaces
- Up to 800 sq ft per gallon on stone surfaces
Deficiencies:
- It needs at least two coats for good protection
- Some users to say it takes a while to dry (several hours)
Now you have the five best concrete curbing sealer products with their features, usage, and benefits. So, choose any of them for your upcoming project to get a professional-looking finish.
A Comparison Table of the Best Concrete Sealers?
| Product | Compatible Material | Coverage Rate Per Gallon | Item Weight |
| Foundation Armor SX5000WB5GAL | Concrete | 175 sq. ft. | 45 Pounds |
| Rain Guard SP-4005 | Wood, Concrete, Stone | 300 sq. ft. | 44.3 Pounds |
| Ghostshield 8500 Ultra Concentrate | Concrete, Stone | 150 sq. ft. | 8.65 Pounds |
| Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant | Metal, Wood, Concrete | 250 sq. ft. | 9.00 Pounds |
| RadonSeal 110 | Concrete | 400/800 sq. ft. | 48 Pounds |
How to Choose the Best Sealer for Concrete Curbing?
As you now know the importance of penetrating sealers for concrete curbing, it’s time to learn how to choose the best one. Here are some factors that you need to consider:
Concrete Porousness
The first thing you need to consider is the porosity of your concrete. If your concrete is highly porous, then you’ll need a sealer that can penetrate deep into the surface. And, if your concrete is not very porous, then you can choose a curbing sealer with a shallower penetration.
To determine the porosity of your concrete, you can conduct a water test. Simply pour some water onto the surface and see how long it takes to soak in. If the water beads up and doesn’t soak in within a few minutes, it’s not very porous.
Surface Texture
One of the most important aspects of choosing a sealer for concrete curbing is to select one that is appropriate for the surface texture of your curbing. The three main surface textures are smooth, troweled, and broomed.
- Smooth surfaces are easy to clean and maintain, but they can be slippery when wet.
- Troweled surfaces have a more textured finish that provides extra traction, making them ideal for areas that experience high foot traffic.
- Broomed surfaces have an even rougher finish that helps to prevent slips and falls.
When selecting a sealer, read the label carefully to ensure that it is compatible with the curbing’s surface texture.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Not all sealers are created equal, and some are better suited for areas with high freeze-thaw cycles. When choosing a sealer, it is important to consider the climate in which it will be used.
If the sealer is exposed to frequent freeze-thaw cycles, it is important to select one designed specifically for this purpose. Freeze-thaw cycle ratings are usually listed on product labels, so it is easy to compare different sealers and choose the one that is right for your needs.
Exposure to Sunlight
When looking for a sealer for your concrete curbing, you will want to ensure that you get one rated for the sunlight exposure it will get. The amount of sunlight a sealer is exposed to will determine how long it will last and how well it will protect your concrete.
If you are unsure how much sunlight your sealer will be getting, you can always ask the manufacturer or the retailer. They should be able to give you an estimate based on the location of your home and the climate.
Coverage Area
This will ensure that you purchase the right amount of sealer and do not waste any money. To calculate the coverage area, you will need to know the dimensions of the area that you want to seal.
Once you have these measurements, you can use a simple formula to determine the coverage area. The formula is: length x width = coverage area. For example, if you want to seal an area that is 10 feet long and 5 feet wide, the coverage area would be 50 square feet.
Keep in mind that this formula only works for rectangular areas. If your concrete curbing is not rectangular, you need to use a different formula for calculating coverage. If you need to know the coverage area of the sealer, you can also consult the product label.
Application Method
Three common methods for applying concrete sealer are pump-up sprayer, roller, and brush. The best method for applying sealer will depend on the size and shape of the area to be sealed, as well as the type of sealer being used.
Pump-up sprayers are ideal for large areas or sealing concrete with many nooks and crannies. Roller applicators are best for flat surfaces, while brushes can reach tight spaces and corners.
When choosing a sealer, always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that you use the proper application method.
Dry Time
When you are looking to buy a sealer for concrete curbing, it is also important to determine the dry time of the sealer. This is because the wrong sealer can make your curb look glossy and wet, which is not the look you are going for.
If you want to know when a sealer will dry, you need to look at the manufacturer’s instructions. Most sealers will have a specific dry time that they recommend. When in doubt, it’s best to avoid caution and let the sealer dry longer. This will give your curb a perfect finish.
VOCs and Odor
VOCs, volatile organic compounds, are released into the air as the sealer dries and can harm your health if inhaled like an acrylic concrete sealer. The amount of VOCs in a sealer is typically listed on the product label, so check this before making your purchase.
The odor of the sealer is also vital to consider, as some strong fumes can be overwhelming. If you are sensitive to strong smells, look for a sealer with a low odor or allow plenty of time for the sealer to dry before entering the area.
By considering all of these factors, you can be sure to find the best sealer for your concrete curbing needs. A suitable sealer can protect your curb from the elements and extend its lifespan.
How to Seal Curbing With the Best Concrete Sealer?
After you have chosen the sealer for your unsealed concrete surfaces, it is time to apply it to your curb. You can do this by following these tips:
- Begin by cleaning the surface of the curb with a pressure washer or garden hose. This will remove any dirt, dust, or debris that could prevent the sealer from adhering properly.
- Once the surface is clean, allow it to dry completely before beginning the sealing process.
- To apply the sealer, use a pump-up sprayer, roller, or brush, depending on the type of sealer you are using.
- Start at one end of the curb and work your way down.
- Make sure to distribute the sealer across the surface of the curb evenly.
- Allow the sealer to dry completely before walking or driving on the curb. This usually takes 24-48 hours. Some fast-drying sealers may be dry to the touch in as little as 2 hours.
Following these steps ensures that your curb is appropriately sealed and protected from the elements. A quality sealer will extend the lifespan of your curb and keep it looking its finest for a long time to come.
How Many Coats of Concrete Sealer Should I Use?
The general rule of thumb is two coats for most applications. This will provide adequate protection against stains and wear without making the surface too slippery or difficult to clean, like a concrete paver. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule.
Additional coats may be necessary if the concrete curbing is particularly porous or has been previously sealed with a poor-quality product. In these cases, it is best to apply a thin first coat and then wait 24 hours to see how well it is absorbed.
Additional coats may be needed if the sealer is still absorbed or water beads up on the curbing surface. As always, test a small area before applying the sealant to the entire surface.
Can You Put Too Much Sealer on Concrete Curbing?
When it comes to sealing concrete curbing, more is not always better. Using too much sealer can be counterproductive, leaving a sticky residue that attracts dirt and makes the surface difficult to clean.
It can also make the surface too slippery, which can be dangerous. To determine how much sealer to use, starting with a small area is always advisable. Then, gradually increase the amount until you find the right balance.
Does Power Washing Remove Concrete Sealer?
Yes, power washing can remove sealer from concrete curbing. However, it is important to be careful when using a power washer, as too much pressure can damage the surface of the curb.
If you are planning to power wash your curbing, start with the lowest setting and work your way up until you find the right pressure. Remember to hold the power washer at an angle so that the water does not cause damage to the curb surface.
Can Exterior Concrete Surfaces Be Sealed With a Sealer?
Yes. Even many experts suggest sealing concrete curbing, as it provides an extra layer of protection. Without this sealant, concrete can absorb moisture, resulting in cracking, spalling, flaking, and discoloration.
Apart from that, the best sealer for concrete curbing will help to prevent staining and fading. Applying a sealer is a simple process, and the results are well worth the effort. Sealing your concrete curbing surface will help to prolong its life and keep it looking its optimum.
Earlier in this article, we described in detail the top-quality concrete curbing sealers on the market today. So, don’t wait any longer. Get yourself a concrete sealer and start sealing your concrete curbing today.