Best Product For Sealing Stamped Concrete Patio Outdoors

A stamped concrete patio can be a gorgeous addition to any outdoor space. The patterns and designs bring visual interest. The concrete’s durability allows the deck to withstand years of use. Colored concrete can stain, fade, and suffer other damage over time. The elements expose it. This happens if it needs to be adequately sealed.

I’ve tried countless sealants over the years as a contractor working on homeowners residences. Solvent-based penetrating sealants consistently protect vibrant colors and intricate designs in patterned concrete. They rise above the rest. These clear coats soak deep into the concrete pores instead of leaving a film on top that can peel. And the best part is they allow moisture vapor to pass through so wet concrete can still breathe. This prevents the growth of mold, mildew, and other moisture-related issues over time.

Choosing a suitable sealer is crucial for protecting your investment. It also keeps your colored concrete looking like new. The best concrete sealants stand up to sun, rain, snow, and heavy foot traffic. They also enhance the color and design of your concrete. With so many options on the market, selecting the ideal product for your needs can get confusing. This article breaks down the key factors to consider. It helps to choose the best clear coat protection for an outdoor patterned concrete deck.

Why Choose Acrylic Concrete Sealers For Stamped Concrete

People consider acrylic sealers the best sealers for stamped concrete patios. This is for the following reasons:

They are breathable. They allow moisture in the concrete slab to escape and protect against water damage. This breathability is essential for outdoor concrete that experiences freeze-thaw cycles.
They have good ultraviolet resistance. They won’t turn yellow or fade from sun exposure over time. This protects the color of the concrete deck outdoors.
They enhance color. This enriches the vibrancy of color hardeners. It also enriches the vibrancy of antiquing releases. It also enriches the vibrancy of integral pigments used in the colored concrete.
They are easy and economical to apply compared to other clear coat types. They can be rolled or sprayed on without leaving bubbles or residue.
They add gloss and sheen to colored concrete. Solvent-based acrylics provide a wet look and higher gloss than water-based versions.
They are designed for thin application. This allows them to penetrate surfaces like patterned concrete properly. It prevents pooling or puddling.

In summary, acrylic sealants, especially solvent-based, enhance appearance. They also provide superior protection against weathering and wear. They are used for colored concrete patios, pool decks, and driveways. They are a top choice over other options. They are breathable, UV resistant, easy to apply, and affordable.

What Does a Concrete Sealer Do?

First, let’s look at why concrete sealants are so important. After that, we can dive into product recommendations.

Prevent water damage: Water seeping into concrete can cause cracks, pitting, and spalling. This happens from freeze/thaw cycles. They keep moisture out.
Block deicing salts: form a protective barrier against corrosive deicers. They are used on concrete in colder climates.
Protected concrete resists stains: Spilled food, beverages, oils, and lawn chemicals won’t penetrate it. Other common contaminants also won’t penetrate it.
Stop UV Damage: They contain ultraviolet inhibitors. These prevent fading or yellowing from sun exposure over time.
Clear coats intensify the vibrancy of color hardeners: They also do this for antiquing releases. They also do this for integral pigments used in colored concrete.
Add Sheen: Many sealants contain acrylics, which give concrete a glossy wet look when dry.
Improve Traction: They fill in the textured imprints for better slip resistance. This is especially helpful when wet.

Factors To Consider

Now that we understand the benefits of sealers. Let’s look at the best product for an outdoor textured deck. Consider the following factors:

1. Solvent-Based or Water-Based

Solvent-based sealers tend to provide better outdoor protection. They penetrate deeper and withstand UV exposure better. However, regulations are limiting solvent options in some regions due to VOCs. Water-based sealers are a low-odor, eco-friendly alternative. However, you may need to reapply them more often.

2. Acrylics, Epoxies, or Polyurethanes

Popular sealer resin types include:

Acrylics – budget-friendly, breathable, easy to apply
Epoxies – extremely durable and stain-resistant
Polyurethanes – provide a hardwearing, high-gloss finish

There are also acrylic-polyurethane blends. They are a type of water-based sealer that combines benefits.

3. Application Method

Look for a sealer that goes on quickly with a pump sprayer, roller, or brush. It should not leave a thick gummy residue or bubbles on the surface.

4. Reapplication Needs

Outdoor sealers need to be reapplied every 3-5 years. Consider application cost/hassle when buying products.

5. Reviews from Other Owners

Opt for widely used sealers with positive feedback for stamped concrete sealer applications. Avoid products with complaints about poor coverage, flaking, or peeling.

Best Product for Sealing Stamped Concrete Patios

With all these factors weighed, here is my top recommendation for protecting outdoor stamped concrete projects:

Foundation Armor AR350

Features:

Solvent-based pure acrylic
High gloss finish
Enriches color
Ultraviolet protection
Breathable
Easy water cleanup
5-year recoat time
You can use a pump sprayer

The Foundation Armor AR350 is a solvent-based sealant. It is specially designed for decorative concrete. Professionals rate it as best-in-class.

This clear topping is 100% acrylic. It’s packed with Ultraviolet blockers. It protects against fading, stains, salt, and moisture damage on outdoor colored concrete. The high gloss finish makes patterns, colors, and surfaces pop. It also allows trapped moisture to escape.

Application is easy with a pump sprayer, roller, or brush. Coverage runs 100-400 sq ft per gallon, depending on the surface and porosity of the concrete.

The AR350 has stood up to traffic, weathering, and wear for years. It outperforms cheaper hardware store products. Reapplication is only needed every 4-5 years.

Thousands of homeowners praise the AR350. They love its durability, color enhancement, and ease of application. The concrete has a pattern. The 5-year recoat timeline is a longer service life than many competing products.

The AR350 comes with a 5-year warranty from Foundation Armor. It ensures that your colored concrete deck will stay beautiful for decades. You’ll have peace of mind about your investment.

Application Tips: After Choosing a Concrete Sealer

Once you’ve selected the suitable sealant, proper application technique ensures optimal results:

Read and follow all label instructions carefully
Only apply when temperatures are between 50-90°F
Use a pump sprayer for large areas, a roller for cut-in work
Apply thin, even coats, avoiding puddling
Allow proper drying time between coats
Tape off adjacent surfaces like house walls to avoid drips when you apply sealers.
Work in sections to prevent tracking through the surface of the concrete. Do this when applying the sealants.
Clean equipment immediately after use with water

Be sure to prep your deck before applying a protective clear top coating. Clear debris with a leaf blower. Clean stained areas with a concrete degreaser or etcher.

Enhance and Protect Your Decorative Concrete Patio Investment

Choosing the best sealant transforms a standard concrete slab into a showpiece. It protects your investment for decades. Superior clear sealants fill the imprints for better traction. They also accentuate the vibrant colors on the surface. They provide an impenetrable barrier against damage from sun, stains, salt, and moisture.

The Foundation Armor AR350 is the top choice for patterned concrete contractor penetrating sealers. It’s ideal for enhancing and protecting patterned exterior brick decks.

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Nashua, NH

North Hampton, NH

Concord, NH