You just spent a lot of time and money on your new stamped concrete patio, driveway, or walkway, and you want to ensure it lasts. Because stamped concrete is a porous material, it’s crucial to seal it to protect it from the elements and prevent staining.
But with so many sealers in existence, how do you know which one is the best sealer for stamped concrete?
A good sealer is a key to preserving your beautiful new stamped concrete surface. It protects stamped concrete from natural substances like water, sun, and dirt and helps shield it from things like oil, leaves, and other debris.
We’re going to talk about the top 5 sealers for stamped concrete in the following article. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which sealer to use.
DOMINATOR Clear Acrylic Concrete Sealer
The Main Features Are:
👍 Water-based formula
👍 Fast dry time
👍 Weather resistance
👍 250-400 sq. ft. coverage
👍 Wet look, low gloss finish
Rain Guard High Gloss Acrylic Concrete Sealer
The Main Features Are:
👍 Self-cross-linking sealer
👍 Pro-grade sealant
👍 Low-VOC and low-odor
👍 CLEAR-SEAL dries
👍 High-gloss finish
Foundation Armor AR350 Wet Look Concrete Sealer
The Main Features Are:
👍 Solvent-based acrylic
👍 Breathable, non-yellowing
👍 Self-priming
👍 UV resistant, low VOC
👍 Low gloss finish
Can You Seal Over Existing Concrete Sealer?
Many people mistakenly believe that they can simply seal over existing concrete sealers. The reality is different.
To ensure that the new sealer adheres properly to the concrete floor, removing all traces of the old sealer first is essential. This can be done by sanding or grinding down the old sealer until the surface is completely smooth.
Once this is done, you can then proceed with applying the new sealant. Failing to remove the old sealer first can result in poor adhesion and decreased effectiveness of the new sealant. As a result, it is always best to start with a clean slate when reapplying concrete sealer.
What Temperature to Seal Stamped Concrete?
When sealing stamped concrete, the temperature is a key factor. According to most manufacturers, a sealer should be applied between 50 and 90 degrees. This is because the sealer needs time to cure, and extreme temperatures can prevent the sealer from properly bonding to the concrete.
Also, high temperatures can cause the sealer to evaporate too quickly, while low temperatures can slow down the curing process. As a result, it’s crucial to choose a time of year when the temperature is moderate, and there is little risk of extreme weather conditions.
What Kind of Sealer Do You Use For Stamped Concrete?
Two main sealers can be used on stamped concrete: penetrating and surface sealers.
Penetrating sealers penetrate the concrete, creating a barrier against water, stains, and other contaminants. They are typically clear in color and do not change the appearance of the stamped concrete.
Conversely, surface sealers protect concrete by forming a protective layer. They can enhance the color of the stamped concrete and protect it from UV rays. Consequently, stamped concrete can also appear glossy after being treated with them.
The following list contains 2 of the best sealants for stamped concrete, based on their ability to protect concrete, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
1. DOMINATOR Clear Acrylic Concrete Sealer
DOMINATOR clear acrylic concrete sealer is a professional-grade product that can be used to seal concrete pavers and decorative concrete. The sealer comes in white and has a low gloss finish. It is also weather resistant and protects against oil stains and other spills.
Also, it dries quickly between coats, so it is a simple one-day project. By following standard application procedures, you can spray it. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use.
What Makes This Product Helpful?
The DOMINATOR sealer is perfect for stamped concrete because it provides maximum surface protection. Keep your surface looking beautiful for longer with an outlasting sealer. You can finish the job in less time with an easy application and quick dry time.
Plus, you can create the appropriate look for your stamped concrete with low gloss and wet look options. And the results are worth bragging about.
Good Things:
- Long-lasting protection from weathering
- Easy to apply, quick drying time, and easy cleanup
- Promotes outstanding curb appeal
- Amazing coverage rate
- 2 to 4 years before resealing
Deficiencies:
- Cold weather may not be ideal for applying this sealer
2. Rain Guard High Gloss Acrylic Concrete Sealer
Rain Guard high gloss acrylic concrete sealer is designed to protect the concrete, stone, and other masonry surfaces from staining, UV light, and wear. It dries to a clear finish that will not be yellow or turn cloudy over time.
This sealer is formulated with acrylic urethane and is acid, base, alcohol, oil, gasoline, and hot tire resistant. It can be applied to porous or dense substrates and can coat up to 400 square feet per gallon.
What Makes This Product Helpful?
The Rain Guard sealer for stamped concrete is a high-gloss acrylic waterproofed that coats and seals porous surfaces, painted masonry, dense surfaces, and wood. A lambswool applicator, airless sprayer, or pump-up sprayer can be used to apply it.
After applying the sealer, allow it to cure for at least 24 hours on a dry surface (less than 25% moisture). The most effective results are achieved when porous surfaces are prepped with oil, stains, etc., and cracks are filled.
Good Things:
- Right out of the bottle, you can use it
- Resistant to acids, bases, gasoline, oil, and alcohol
- Easy to apply and pre-mixed
- Weatherproof, impact-resistant barrier
- Safe for the applicator, end user, and environment
Deficiencies:
- Some users say it is runny and thin
- The drying time is a little bit longer
These two of the best stamped concrete sealers will help protect and prolong your stamped concrete’s life. By sealing the concrete, you can keep it looking new for years. Choose the sealer that ideally fits your needs and budget, and enjoy your beautiful stamped concrete for decades to come.
What Is the Best Wet Look Stamped Concrete Sealer?
While many types of stamped concrete sealers are on the market, not all of them provide the same benefits. When it comes to finding the best product to seal stamped concrete, you want to make sure that it is durable, easy to apply, and will protect your investment.
Check out the following Foundation Armor AR350 sealer, which is suitable for stamped concrete.
➤ Foundation Armor AR350 Wet Look Concrete Sealer
Foundation Armor AR350 wet look concrete sealer is a solvent-based acrylic sealer that is designed to enhance and protect the interior and exterior concrete surfaces. The sealer penetrates deep into the surface, bonding chemically to the pores of the concrete to create a long-lasting, non-yellowing finish.
The Armor AR350 will also minimize concrete dusting caused by abrasion and adheres well to a variety of surfaces. When properly applied, the Armor AR350 is capable of lasting up to 2 to 5 years without needing to be reapplied.
What Makes This Product Helpful?
If you are looking for a product that will protect your stamped concrete, the Armor AR350 is an excellent option. It is an acrylic sealer that is suitable for unsealed surfaces or surfaces that have been previously sealed with a different product.
Approximately 175 square feet can be covered by one gallon of Armor AR350 per coat, so two coats are recommended for optimal protection. It is important to wait 24 hours between coats to allow the sealer to cure properly. Once the sealer has dried, the surface can be exposed to water, foot, or vehicle traffic.
Good Things:
- For unsealed concrete and pavers
- Reduce surface abrasion damage
- One gallon will cover up to 175 square feet
- Can be applied to unsealed surfaces
- High gloss option available
- Non-slip additive available
Deficiencies:
- If the surface is too hot, bubbles will form
This is one of the best sealers for colored stamped concrete, giving your stamped concrete a natural wet look. It is made of high-quality ingredients, making it durable and long-lasting.
What Is the Best Acrylic Sealer for Stamped Concrete?
There are also other acrylic sealers designed explicitly for stamped concrete. These types of sealers will protect your stamped concrete from weathering, staining, and other wear and tear. They also typically have a semi or high-gloss finish, making your stamped concrete pop.
We recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions if you’re looking for an acrylic sealer for your stamped concrete. Some of the best concrete sealers stamped concrete include:
➤ EnduraCoat Acrylic Semi Gloss Stamped Concrete Sealer
EnduraCoat acrylic semi gloss stamped concrete sealer is a high-performance, lower odor solvent sealer that produces a smooth and wet look on virtually any substrate. This product is highly durable and can be used on terracotta, concrete, and stone surfaces.
It is non-yellowing and has a low odor compared with common solvent-based sealers. And, because it is made with 100% pure acrylic, it provides excellent protection against weathering and staining.
What Makes This Product Helpful?
You may want to consider a high-quality sealer to protect your stamped concrete, then EnduraCoat can be a good option. This sealant provides a tough, glossy finish that will help to keep your concrete looking great for a long time.
This concrete sealer is designed to be non-yellowing, so you can rest assured that your stamped concrete will maintain its beautiful appearance over time.
Good Things:
- For all types of concrete
- Stabilizes paver joints
- Sealed concrete will resist staining
- Low VOC and almost no odor option available
Deficiencies:
- Some users report that the shine is too strong for their taste
➤ Ghostshield Solvent Based Acrylic Concrete Sealer
Ghostshield solvent based acrylic concrete sealer is a high quality sealer that provides a high gloss, wet look finish while protecting against surface damage.
The sealer requires no primer and adheres to all surfaces previously coated with water- or solvent-based acrylic sealers.
Cryli-Tek 5505 concrete sealer is easy to clean and maintain and outperforms all rivals in its class. In addition, it offers a tenacious bond to concrete, paver stones, and natural stones.
What Makes This Product Helpful?
If you want to prevent stamped concrete from fading, staining, and weathering, Ghostshield sealant is the most suitable option. This product forms a tough, clear film that improves abrasion and stain resistance.
Aside from sealing against water ingress, it is also weather-resistant. With its superior chemical resistance, Ghostshield sealer is ideal for stamped concrete driveways exposed to various elements.
Good Things:
- Composition is driven by nanotechnology
- Solvent-based sealer
- It’s easy to apply with a roller
- You can also use a brush
- A tough film resists abrasion and stains
Deficiencies:
- Very high cost to remove and replace sealer
These two of the best acrylic sealers for stamped concrete are most popular and preferred by professionals. You can choose any of them for your stamped concrete project.
Comparison Table of the Best Stamped Concrete Sealers
| Product | Sealer Material | Color | Coverage Rate Per Gallon | Compatible Material |
| DOMINATOR PLG05G | Acrylic | White | 250 to 400 sq. ft. | Concrete, Stone |
| Rain Guard CU- 0101 | Urethane | Clear, Gloss Finish | 400 sq. ft. | Wood, Concrete, Stone |
| Foundation Armor AR350 | Solvent Based | Clear | 175 sq. ft. | Concrete, Stone |
| EnduraCoat 7747509 | Resin, Urethane | Clear | 150 to 300 sq. ft. | Terracotta, Concrete, Stone |
| Ghostshield Cryli-Tek 5505 | Acrylic | Clear, High Gloss, Wet Look | 200 sq. ft. | Concrete, Stone |
How to Choose the Best Sealer for Stamped Concrete?
Buying a sealer for stamped concrete is not an easy task as there are a lot of products available in the market. But, if you know what to look for, it can be a simple process. Here are some factors that you need to keep in mind when choosing the best sealer for stamped colored concrete:
Type of Sealer
The sealer type you use is important when sealing stamped concrete. Different sealers provide different levels of protection and can be used for different purposes.
For example, a solvent-based sealer will provide a high level of protection against weathering and staining, but it can also be yellow over time. An acrylic sealer will provide a clear finish that will not yellow, but it may not be as durable as a solvent-based sealer.
So read the labels carefully and choose the best sealer for stamped concrete patios for your needs.
Type of Surface
The type of stamped concrete surface you have will also dictate the type of sealer you need to use. If you have a very porous surface such as concrete, then you will need to use a sealer that can penetrate deeply into the pores to provide adequate protection.
If you have a non-porous surface, then you can use a sealer that will provide a protective barrier on the surface of the concrete. You can find this information on the product label.
Application Method
The application method is also an important factor to consider when choosing the best stamped concrete sealant. Some sealers can be applied with a pump sprayer, while others require a roller or brush.
If you are sealing a large area, choosing a sealer that is pump sprayable is a good idea. This will save you time and effort.
Aesthetic Considerations
When choosing the best sealer for decorative concrete, you also need to consider the aesthetic effects of the sealer.
Some sealers will provide a high-gloss finish that will make the colors in your stamped concrete pop. Other sealers will provide a low gloss or semi-gloss finish that will give your stamped concrete a more natural look.
So decide what look you want for your stamped concrete before you choose a sealer by following the manufacturer’s directions.
Low VOC and No Odor
You can do a few things to determine the low VOC and no odor of the sealer when you buy the best concrete sealer for stamped concrete.
Check the product label. All products must have a VOC content label. This will tell you the maximum amount of VOCs in the product. If the VOC content is not listed on the label, call the manufacturer and ask for that information.
You can also ask your local hardware store or home center for their recommendations once you have determined that the sealer has low VOC and no odor, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and ventilation.
Non-Yellowing Formula
When choosing the best patterned concrete sealer, one of the key considerations is whether you want a yellow sealer over time or one that will maintain its original color.
To determine the non-yellowing formula of the sealer, simply look for the words “non-yellowing” or “UV stable” on the product label. This indicates that the sealer contains UV inhibitors that will help to maintain the original color of your concrete.
Stain Resistant
When looking for the best stamped concrete sealer, another crucial thing you will want to consider is how stain-resistant it is. There are a few different ways to determine this.
One way to ask the manufacturer about the product and what tests they have done to ensure that it is stain-resistant. You can also test the sealer by applying it to a small area of concrete and staining it with coffee, tomato juice, or wine.
If the sealer can resist these stains, it is likely that it will be effective in protecting your stamped concrete from more serious stains.
By following these guidelines, you can be sure to choose the best stamp concrete sealer for your needs. Remember to read the labels carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for good results.
How Do You Put Sealer on Stamped Concrete?
Sealers can be applied to stamped concrete in a few different ways. The most common method is to use a pump sprayer.
Pump sprayers are easy to use and will allow you to apply an even coat of sealer to your stamped concrete. You can also use a roller or brush to apply the sealer, but this will take more time and effort.
When applying the sealer, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. In most cases, you will want to apply a thin, even coat of sealer to the surface of the concrete.
Once the sealer has been applied, you should allow it to dry for the amount of time specified by the manufacturer. This will usually be between 24 and 48 hours.
After the sealer has dried, you can enjoy your newly sealed stamped concrete.
How Often Do You Seal Stamped Concrete?
The frequency with which you seal your stamped concrete will depend on a few factors.
- You need to consider the type of sealer you are using first. Some sealers will need to be reapplied more often than others.
- The other consideration is how much traffic your stamped concrete will see. If you have a lot of foot traffic, you will need to reseal more often.
- It is also pertinent to consider the climate in which you live. If you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow, resealing is more likely to be necessary.
You should generally plan to reseal your stamped concrete every year. However, you may need to do it more or less often depending on the abovementioned factors.
How to Seal Stamped Concrete Driveway?
When sealing a stamped concrete driveway, you will need to take special care. You will need to choose a sealer that is specifically designed for driveways. These sealers are usually stronger and more durable than those designed for other types of concrete.
The following are some tips for sealing a stamped concrete driveway:
1. Prepare the surface: Before applying the sealer, you will need to clean the surface of the concrete. You can do this with a pressure washer or a garden hose.
2. Apply the sealer: Once the surface is clean, you can apply the sealer. You will need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.
3. Allow the sealer to dry: After sealing, allow it to dry. This usually takes between 24 and 48 hours.
4. Enjoy your newly sealed driveway: Once the sealer is dry, you can start enjoying your new stamped concrete walkway.
What Happens If You Don’t Seal Stamped Concrete?
Most people who choose stamped concrete do so because they want a low-maintenance surface. It is still necessary to seal stamped concrete in order to prevent it from deteriorating.
Without a sealer, the colors will fade, and the concrete will be more susceptible to staining and weathering. Over time, unsealed stamped concrete can develop cracks and chips.
While sealing does require some initial effort, it is well worth it to prolong the life of your stamped concrete. In the long run, sealing your stamped concrete will save you time and money.
Should I Seal My Stamped Concrete Patio?
A stamped concrete patio is a great way to add value to your home while providing a stylish and functional outdoor space. While stamped concrete is durable and low-maintenance, it requires some care to keep it looking most stunning.
One of the most helpful things you can do for your stamped concrete patio is to seal it regularly. Sealing helps to protect the concrete from stains, weather damage, and wear and tear. Sealing new concrete after it has cured is generally recommended, and re-sealing it every year.
Depending on your climate and how much use your patio gets, you may need to seal it more often. Ask a professional for guidance if you are unsure how often to seal your patio. You can enjoy your stamped concrete patio for years if you take care of it.
What Happens If You Seal Stamped Concrete Too Soon?
One of the most common mistakes when sealing stamped concrete is sealing it too soon. While it’s important to seal your stamped concrete against the elements, you can do more harm than good if you seal it too soon.
If you seal the concrete too soon, the excess moisture will not be able to evaporate normally. Consequently, the newly laid concrete driveway would not be as strong as it should be. As well, the concrete would be susceptible to cracking and breaking.
So, if you’re planning on sealing your stamped concrete, wait until the concrete has had enough time to cure properly. Otherwise, you could end up doing more harm than good.
Do I Need To Seal My New Stamped Concrete?
To protect your stamped concrete from the elements and prolong its lifespan, you should seal it. On the other hand, you may not need to seal your new stamped concrete right away.
If your stamped concrete is new, you should wait at least 28 days before applying a sealer. This will give the concrete time to cure properly. Once it has cured, you can then seal it.
Sealing your stamped concrete is an essential part of maintaining it. Remember, you must use the best sealer for stamped concrete to get the job done right.
For your convenience, based on our findings, we have already outlined the top sealers for stamped or polished concrete. Look at our reviews and find the perfect sealer for your needs.