Best Concrete Driveway Sealers: Restore the Look of Your Driveway
Protect your concrete driveway from damage with these concrete sealers
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BY Norah Tarichia / LAST UPDATED ON May 19, 2020
Concrete is a popular building material in many garages and driveways since it looks appealing and is long-lasting. However, concrete can fade and start to chip without proper maintenance. If you are looking for the best concrete sealer for your driveway, here are a few options you should consider.
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Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
Tips
- Clean the surface before applying the sealer. Remove any grass and loose concrete particles, and give it a good sweep.
- Remove any tough grease stains from the concrete floor with a degreaser. Grease may limit the effectiveness of the sealer. You should also gently scrub out the oil stains.
- Mop the floor to make sure that the surface is free of any dirt or chemicals. Let it dry before applying the sealer.
- Apply the sealer to any cracks and minor defects to prevent further damage. Leave the sealer to dry for at least seven hours for the best results.
FAQs
Q: How long do concrete driveway sealers last?
A: Most high-quality sealants can last for at least two years without reapplication. However, it will depend on the quality of the product and the daily conditions the concrete is exposed to. For example, if you drive a heavy truck on your driveway and it constantly rains in your area, then the sealer may not last for more than five months.
Q: What’s the best sealer application tool?
A: Spray applicators are the best since they can penetrate the cracks, and it takes a shorter time to cover the entire driveway. A roller is easy to use, but it may miss on the chipped or cracked parts. A regular brush is a bit strenuous to use, and it will take longer to finish your entire driveway.
Q: Why do tire marks appear on a sealed driveway?
A: When you drive your car for a long period of time, the tires heat up and the plasticizer (a polymer compound in the tire) leaches out of the tire. The plasticizer causes the hot tire marks on your sealant. You can use a higher-quality sealant that darkens the surface and stays immune to the marks of your tires.
Final Thoughts
Our top pick is the Foundation Armor Concrete Sealer. It’s great for first-time users and helps to hide the rugged look of the concrete typically caused by harsh weather elements.
If you would like a cheap concrete driveway sealer that will help you restore the look of a section of your driveway, consider the MasonryDefender Concrete Sealer.