The Best Sealers for Stamped Concrete

What type of sealer should be used for sealing stamped concrete?

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Bob Harris and his crew apply sealer to a stamped driveway using a sprayer and rollers.

The final step in the installation of stamped concrete is to apply a concrete sealer suitable for exterior exposure conditions. Sealers provide several important benefits:

• They block the penetration of stains, oil, deicing chemicals and other contaminants.
• They protect stamped concrete surfaces from abrasion and wear.
• The make stamped concrete easier to clean and maintain.
• They enrich the color intensity of stamped concrete, whether the color is integral or provided by a dry-shake hardener and antiquing release.
• They add sheen to the surface, ranging from satin to high gloss.

Shop for concrete sealers

How to choose the best sealer for stamped concreteThe primary type of sealer used for exterior stamped concrete flatwork is a solvent- or water-based acrylic. Acrylic sealers are easy to apply, economical, and most important, breathable, allowing moisture in the slab to escape. They also are UV resistant and non-yellowing. Solvent-based acrylics generally perform better than water-based products for outdoor use because they penetrate well and are less likely to turn white, or milky. (Learn more about acrylic sealers.)

Before buying a sealer, check with the manufacturer to make sure the product is appropriate for your particular project. Here are some important questions to ask:

• What conditions will the sealer be exposed to?
• Is the sealer breathable?
• What is the drying time?
• What is the coverage rate?
• What type of finish and surface appearance do you want to achieve?
• What is the life expectancy of the sealer, and does the manufacturer provide a warranty?
• How easy is the sealer to apply?
• See more frequently asked questions here.

Shop for Sealers & Stamps

Five Point Star Medallion

Concrete stamp only - $292.00

Brickform Stamping Tools

Precision stamping tools

How to seal stamped concreteBefore applying sealer to stamped concrete, the surface must be clean and dry to ensure good adhesion. Also, you should allow the concrete to cure sufficiently -- generally several weeks after placement, depending on weather conditions. With stamped concrete, it’s especially important to make sure the surface is free of moisture in low spots of the stamp pattern, where water may accumulate.

Find concrete contractors near me that can help seal my stamped concrete.

There are several tools you can use to apply sealer to stamped concrete, depending on the product you’re using. Pump-up or low-pressure sprayers are best for applying one-part, solvent-based sealers with a solids content below 35%. Airless, or low-pressure high-volume (LPHV) sprayers, can handle both water- and solvent-based sealers and permit very controlled application rates, allowing large areas to be sealed in the shortest time. You can also apply water- or solvent-based sealers with a paint-type roller. To work the sealer into the textured surface and stamp pattern depressions, be sure to use a roller with a fairly thick nap (about 3/8 inch). One of the best application techniques when sealing stamped or textured surfaces is to combine spraying followed back rolling to keep the sealer from settling in low spots and to help distribute the sealer uniformly.

Learn more about choosing the best applicator for concrete sealer.

Stamped concrete sealer dos and don’ts

• DON’T apply the sealer too thickly, or it will just lie or puddle on the surface rather than penetrate. Acrylic sealers are designed to go down very thinly, at thicknesses of only 1 to 2 mils.
• DO apply sealer in two thin coats rather than one thick heavy coat to achieve more uniform coverage.
• DON’T apply a solvent-based sealer over a water-based product because the solvent can eat or soften the existing water-based sealer.
• DO refer to the sealer manufacturer's application guidelines for specifics on surface preparation, recommended application tools, and dry times between coats.

For more information on concrete sealer application and troubleshooting, see Fixing Common Sealer Problems.

Related resources: Buyer's Guide to Concrete Sealers
Advice on Tinting Sealers
Video: Acrylic Concrete Sealer Application

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In the 2021 edition of the International Residential Code (IRC), the guidelines were revised to recommend a minimum 10 mil vapor barrier for use under concrete slabs in residential buildings instead of a 6 mil.

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) also recommends a minimum of 10 mil polyethylene or thicker for vapor retarders under concrete. According to its Guide to Concrete Floor and Slab Construction ACI 302.1R-15, thicker poly provides a better barrier and is also more puncture resistant. ASTM E-1745 also advocates for thicker poly or other membrane material to be used to form more of a barrier against vapor.

Benefits of using a

Vapor Barrier Under Concrete Slabs

Protection against Degradation

Excess exposure to ground moisture can cause concrete slabs to degrade faster and rebar corrosion. A vapor barrier protects the concrete from failure and prevents damage to flooring.

Protection from Toxic Gasses

Gasses like radon and methane naturally occur in soil, but increased exposure can lead to health complications and lung cancer. Vapor barriers offer increased insulation from toxic gasses, making the air healthier for residents.

How to Choose a High-Quality Vapor Barrier

The new IRC guidelines have specified that vapor barriers used under concrete slabs should be Class A barriers and a minimum of 10 mils thick. Vapor barriers are classified as either class A, B, or C according to their level of tensile strength and puncture resistance.  This new standard ensures the barrier upholds its integrity during installation.

Americover recommends these vapor barriers for use under concrete slabs:

How to Install a

Vapor Barrier Under Concrete Slabs

Builders should first level the sub-base material, which could involve pouring a thin layer of sand over a gravel sub-base to reduce punctures. The vapor barrier should then be rolled over the sub-base with the longest dimension parallel with the direction of the slab pour. Do not puncture or drive stakes through the barrier. Extend the vapor barrier over seams and seal them with vapor barrier tape.

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As an Americover customer, you will receive the personalized support of a dedicated account manager to simplify the ordering process and ensure the best solution for every one of your projects. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and fulfill orders Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. If you would like to speak with a representative, call us at 760-388-6294 or contact us.

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