Choosing the best sealer for a driveway requires careful consideration of several factors, including the type of sealer, the condition of the driveway, and the climate. Our top pick is the Henry Rubber E-Z Stir Driveway Asphalt Sealer.
Driveways are an essential part of any home, and they take a lot of abuse from foot and vehicle traffic, weather, and other factors. To keep driveways in good condition, it’s crucial to apply a sealer periodically.
A driveway sealer is a protective coating that shields the driveway from water, oil, and other harmful substances that can cause damage and deterioration.
When it comes to choosing the best sealer for a driveway, several factors must be considered. The type of sealer, the condition of the driveway, and the climate are some of the critical things to keep in mind.
Some sealers are designed for specific types of driveways, such as concrete or asphalt, while others are more versatile. Additionally, some sealers are better suited for colder climates, while others are ideal for warmer regions.
One of the most critical things to consider when purchasing a driveway sealer is the type of sealer. There are two primary types of driveway sealers: penetrating and film-forming.
Penetrating sealers soak into the driveway’s surface, creating a protective barrier that repels water and other substances. Film-forming sealers, on the other hand, create a layer on top of the driveway that shields it from the elements.
Best Driveway Sealers
Maintaining your driveway is essential to ensure its longevity and functionality. One of the most effective ways to protect and enhance your driveway is by applying a high-quality sealer.
With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of the best driveway sealers that are currently available on Amazon.
These sealers have been tested and reviewed by experts and customers alike, and are known for their durability, ease of application, and effectiveness in protecting your driveway from harsh weather conditions and wear and tear.
1. Henry Rubber E-Z Stir Driveway Asphalt Filler/Sealer
If you’re looking for a reliable sealer for your driveway, the Henry Rubber E-Z Stir Driveway Asphalt Filler/Sealer is worth considering. With its 4-year warranty, you can be confident that this product will give you long-lasting results.
Pros
- Reinforced for improved traction and durability
- Easy to stir and apply
- Covers 250-500 sq. ft. per 5-gallon pail, depending on surface texture
Cons
- May take longer to dry than advertised
- Can be difficult to apply it evenly
- May not fill larger cracks as well as advertised
This sealer is easy to stir and apply, making it a great option for homeowners who want to do the job themselves. It’s also reinforced for improved traction and durability, so you can be confident that it will hold up well over time.
However, some users have reported that it may take longer to dry than advertised, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
Additionally, it can be difficult to apply evenly, which may result in an uneven finish (here is the best matte finish concrete sealer).
Finally, while it does a good job of filling small cracks, it may not be as effective on larger cracks.
Overall, the Henry Rubber E-Z Stir Driveway Asphalt Filler/Sealer is a solid choice for homeowners who want to protect and maintain their driveways. With its easy application and long-lasting results, it’s definitely worth considering.
2. BEEST Concrete Sealer
Protect your driveway, patio, and other outdoor surfaces from moisture and deicing salts with BEEST Concrete Sealer Outdoor.
This contractor-grade sealer is made with a concentrated industrial water-based silane/siloxane formula that penetrates deep into surfaces to provide long-lasting protection. It is easy to use and produces a natural finish that doesn’t create a slippery surface.
Pros
- Provides ultimate sealer protection against moisture intrusion and deicing salts
- Offers a natural finish and low VOC formula
- Meets D.O.T. guidelines and can last up to 5 years for ground application and up to 10 years for vertical application
Cons
- Some users may find the sealer to be too thin
- May require multiple coats for optimal coverage
- Can be difficult to remove if applied incorrectly
The BEEST Concrete Sealer Outdoor is the perfect solution for those looking to protect their outdoor surfaces from the elements.
Its concentrated formula and natural finish make it a great choice for concrete, brick, and masonry surfaces (check out the best sealer for concrete planters).
The sealer creates an impregnating hydrophobic water-beading effect that mitigates cracks, pits, and spalls, and shields against deicing salts.
One of the best things about BEEST Concrete Sealer Outdoor is its low VOC formula. The sealer is 100% breathable and non-film forming, which means that it won’t alter the appearance of your surfaces or create a slippery surface.
It is also D.O.T. approved, which makes it an ideal choice for those looking to protect against freeze-thaw damage.
The sealer is easy to use and can be mixed with distilled water for maximum coverage. It covers 125 – 200 sq ft per gallon (two coats) and can last up to 5 years for ground application and up to 10 years for vertical application when applied properly.
However, some users may find the sealer to be too thin and may require multiple coats for optimal coverage. Additionally, if applied incorrectly, the sealer can be difficult to remove.
Overall, BEEST Concrete Sealer Outdoor is a great choice for those looking to protect their outdoor surfaces from the elements.
Its natural finish and low VOC formula make it a great choice for those who want to maintain the original appearance of their surfaces. With proper application, this sealer can provide years of worry-free protection.
3. Black Diamond Stoneworks Concrete Sealer
If you’re looking for a long-lasting sealer for your outdoor hard surfaces, Black Diamond Stoneworks Concrete Sealer is a great option.
Pros
- Reduces cracks, spalling, and efflorescence, extending the lifespan of your concrete.
- Protects against water and moisture intrusion, chlorides, and deicing salts.
- Safer to use, easier to cleanup, and safer for plants and pets.
Cons
- Some globs of the product may come out even after shaking well.
- May require re-application every 5-7 years for best results.
- May not be effective against mold and water in all cases.
This commercial-grade impregnating sealer is designed to repel water and salts from concrete surfaces, preventing cracking and damage caused by snow, ice, salt, and rain.
It is also effective on other hard surfaces, including cement, grout, stucco, split-faced block, brick, pavers, and natural stone surfaces (find out the best sealer for cement tiles).
The water-based, low-odor, non-flammable formula makes it easy to apply and clean up, and it provides a natural look that lasts up to 10 years on some applications.
The Black Diamond Stoneworks Concrete Sealer is a great choice for those who want to protect their outdoor hard surfaces from the damaging effects of water penetration. It is easy to use, safe for plants and pets, and provides long-lasting protection.
However, it may not be effective against mold and water in all cases, and some globs of the product may come out even after shaking well.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting sealer for your outdoor hard surfaces, the Black Diamond Stoneworks Concrete Sealer is definitely worth considering.
4. MasonryDefender Penetrating Concrete Sealer
If you’re looking for a powerful concrete sealer that will protect your driveway against pitting or cracking, then the MasonryDefender 1 Gallon Penetrating Concrete Sealer is an excellent option.
Pros
- Provides a long-lasting, non-glossy invisible coat to concrete surfaces
- Offers water-repellent protection for up to 5 years
- Best suited to protect against ice melt salts or chloride ions, freeze-thaw damage, efflorescence stains, and more
Cons
- The application requires a low-pressure pump-up garden sprayer
- Coverage is not that great
- Touchy on temperature and rain
The MasonryDefender 1 Gallon Penetrating Concrete Sealer is easy to apply. All you need to do is ensure that your concrete surface is fully cleaned and clear of dirt, dust, grease, oil, efflorescence, etc.
Then, use a low-pressure pump-up garden sprayer to evenly coat your driveway. Avoid puddling or ponding. One gallon will give 90-150 sq. ft. of coverage.
This sealer is a water-based eco-friendly silane/siloxane rain guard penetrating concrete sealer that bonds with the minerals in concrete and masonry to provide long-lasting water protection.
The breathable sealer causes the water to bead instead of seeping into the concrete. This product is best suited to protect against ice melt salts or chloride ions, freeze-thaw damage, efflorescence stains, and more.
In conclusion, if you want to keep your driveway looking new and protect it or other concrete surfaces from pitting or cracking, then the MasonryDefender 1 Gallon Penetrating Concrete Sealer is a great option to consider.
5. Liquid Rubber Driveway Restore Sealant
If you’re looking for a highly flexible asphalt coating that fills cracks and revitalizes your driveway, the Liquid Rubber Driveway Restore Sealant might be worth considering.
Pros
- The sealer is environmentally friendly, containing no solvents and low VOCs, making it safe for you and the environment.
- It’s easy to apply using a brush, roller, or foam squeegee, and it should require 2-3 coats to build up the protective waterproofing membrane.
- The waterproof and durable sealant is designed to withstand weathering and deterioration, and it can help protect the longevity of your driveway.
Cons
- It can take a long time to dry, so be prepared to wait before using your driveway again.
- The product is quite thick, making it difficult to apply with a squeegee or roller.
- Some users have reported that the coverage is less than advertised, so you may need to order more than you think.
The Liquid Rubber Driveway Restore Sealant is a great option for those looking for an environmentally friendly and easy-to-apply sealer that can help protect their driveway from weathering and deterioration.
However, be prepared to wait for it to dry and consider ordering more than you think you’ll need.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best sealer for your driveway, it is important to consider several factors to ensure that you get the right product for your needs. Here are some features to look for when buying a driveway sealer:
Type of Sealer
There are two main types of driveway sealers: penetrating and topical. Penetrating sealers are absorbed into the concrete, providing long-lasting protection against water and other elements.
Topical sealers, on the other hand, form a protective layer on top of the concrete surface. Both types of sealers have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Coverage
The coverage of a sealer refers to the amount of surface area it can cover per gallon. It is important to choose a sealer that provides adequate coverage for your driveway. This will depend on the size of your driveway, as well as the type of sealer you choose.
Drying Time
The drying time of a sealer is an important consideration, especially if you have limited time to complete the job.
Some sealers can dry in as little as 4 hours, while others may take up to 24 hours or more. It is important to choose a sealer with a drying time that fits your schedule.
Application Method
Driveway sealers can be applied using a brush, roller, or sprayer. The application method you choose will depend on your personal preference, as well as the type of sealer you are using.
Some sealers are easier to apply with a sprayer, while others may require a brush or roller for best results.
Price
The price of a driveway sealer can vary depending on the type of sealer, the coverage, and the brand. It is important to choose a sealer that fits within your budget, while still providing the protection your driveway needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best sealer for your driveway and ensure that it is protected against water, oil, and other elements for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of using an oil-based sealer compared to other types?
Oil-based sealers are known for their durability and ability to resist harsh weather conditions. They also penetrate deeper into the surface of the driveway, providing better protection against water, oil, and other contaminants.
Additionally, oil-based sealers tend to have a darker and richer finish, which enhances the appearance of the driveway.
How often should a driveway be resealed to maintain its condition?
The frequency of resealing a driveway depends on several factors, including the type of sealer used, the climate, and the amount of traffic the driveway receives.
In general, it is recommended to reseal a driveway every 2-3 years to maintain its condition and protect it from damage.
What factors should be considered when choosing a driveway sealer company?
When choosing a driveway sealer company, it is important to consider their experience, reputation, and the quality of their products.
It is also recommended to get multiple quotes and compare prices to ensure that you are getting a fair price for the service.
How does the cost of sealing a driveway compare to its long-term benefits?
The cost of sealing a driveway may vary depending on the size of the driveway and the type of sealer used. However, the long-term benefits of sealing a driveway outweigh the initial cost.
A well-sealed driveway can last for many years and protect the surface from damage caused by weather, oil, and other contaminants.
Can driveway sealers effectively fill and seal large cracks?
Driveway sealers can effectively fill and seal small to medium-sized cracks. However, for larger cracks, it is recommended to use a crack filler before applying the sealer.
This will ensure that the crack is properly filled and sealed, providing better protection against further damage.
What are the environmental considerations when selecting a driveway sealer?
When selecting a driveway sealer, it is important to consider its environmental impact. Water-based sealers are considered more environmentally friendly than oil-based sealers, as they contain fewer harmful chemicals.
Additionally, it is important to properly dispose of any leftover sealer and avoid applying it near water sources.