Water Based Sealants

Concrete sealers come in both water-based varieties (typically lower VOC) and solvent-based types (normally high VOC). In the case of a water-based sealer, the polymer particles are dispersed in water. When the sealer is applied to concrete, the water evaporates and the polymer particles move closer together. Decorative concrete sealers are available as solvent or water based products and can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. Apply the sealer with a paint roller in 2 very thin and even coats.

What are the benefits of water-based sealers?

• They don't release harmful vapors into the atmosphere.
• They are far safer for the worker to apply, especially indoors.
• They are easier and cheaper to apply because they can be sprayed on with a cheap plastic garden sprayer and don't flash dry during warm weather.
• They eliminate or reduce most sealer problems including bubbling and roller marks.
• They are often more durable.
• They are available in high-gloss or matte finishes.
• They don't darken the surface nearly as much as solvent-based sealers, so the surface looks much more natural. To some, that's an advantage when installing decorative concrete.
• Water-based acrylic cure-and-seals work just as well as solvent-based ones for curing plain concrete — again without darkening the surface.