Choosing the right sealer for your stone, concrete, or pavers is essential for protecting your surfaces from damage and maximizing their lifespan. While selecting the perfect material for your project is important, your choice of sealer can make or break the appearance and durability of your investment.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the differences between penetrating sealers and topical coating sealers, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Contact Fuller Stone Care at 310-944-9099 if you need help sealing your natural stone.
What is a Penetrating Sealer?
A penetrating sealer goes beneath the surface of your stone, concrete, or pavers and into the pores, where it reacts chemically to create a protective bond. This process fills the pores, making the material denser and less absorbent. Once sealed, the surface will shed water and other liquids, reducing the likelihood of stains.
Penetrating sealers are also effective at preventing dirt and dust from getting trapped in the pores, making the surface easier to clean. These sealers are an excellent choice for high-traffic areas because they do not create a slippery film on top of your stone.
What is a Topical Coating Sealer?
A topical coating sealer works by forming a protective film on top of your concrete or pavers. This film serves various purposes: it helps repel moisture to prevent water damage and staining, provides a barrier against dirt, oil, grease, and chemicals, and acts as a sacrificial layer that absorbs wear and tear, leaving the material beneath unharmed. Depending on the type of topical coating sealer you choose, it can also enhance the color of your surfaces and provide a glossy finish.
Types of Penetrating Sealers
- Silanes: These sealers, made from small silicone molecules, penetrate deeply into the material’s pores, forming a strong bond and providing excellent water repellence and abrasion resistance. Silane sealers have a long service life and only wear away if the material itself wears away.
- Siloxanes: With larger molecules than silanes, siloxane sealers don’t penetrate as deeply but are less volatile. They evaporate at a slower rate during application and curing, offering good protection against water intrusion and abrasion at a lower cost.
- Fluoropolymers: Commonly used and available at various price points, fluoropolymer sealers are easy to apply. However, over-application can result in a hazy finish.
- Color Enhancing Penetrating Sealers: Similar to fluoropolymers, these sealers enhance the color of the stone while providing protection.
Types of Topical Coating Sealers
- Acrylics: Available in water-based and solvent-based formulas, acrylic sealers are economical and easy to apply. Solvent-based acrylics offer better color enhancement and weather resistance, ideal for outdoor use on colored concrete.
- Polyurethanes: These sealers create a durable finish that resists scuffs and staining. They come in various sheen levels and provide a transparent, non-yellowing finish, though they can be tricky to apply due to mixing requirements.
- Epoxies: Epoxy sealers offer a long-lasting, abrasion-resistant finish with excellent water repellence. However, they can trap moisture, so a moisture barrier is recommended before application. Epoxies tend to yellow in sunlight and are best for indoor surfaces.
- Lacquers: Lacquers create a smooth, shiny finish that protects against dust, abrasion, water, chemicals, and UV rays. They are particularly good for achieving a “wet look” on pavers or concrete.
Choosing the Right Sealer
Choosing between penetrating sealers and topical coating sealers is just the first step. Each type comes in many different formulations, affecting color, cost, ease of application, curing time, performance, and lifespan. For expert advice and assistance with your sealing project, contact Fuller Stone Care at 310-944-9099. Our team will ensure you get the right product for your natural stone, concrete, or pavers to protect your investment effectively.