Garage floors take a beating. Between oil spills, road salt, and heavy traffic, concrete can quickly become stained, cracked, and just plain ugly. A good concrete sealer can protect your garage floor, making it easier to clean and prolonging its life. I’ve tried a few sealers over the years in my own garage, some with better results than others. This guide will help you choose the best concrete sealer for your garage, based on my experience and research.
Product Overview
- Foundation Armor SX5000: Penetrating Silane/Siloxane sealer for excellent water repellency and salt resistance.
- Ghost Shield Siloxa-Tek 8500: Offers deep penetration and long-lasting protection against water damage and staining.
- Armor AR350: Wet look, solvent-based acrylic sealer that enhances concrete color and provides a glossy finish.
- KILZ L377611 1-Part Epoxy Concrete and Garage Floor Paint: A durable, easy-to-apply epoxy paint that seals and protects concrete.
- Rust-Oleum EpoxyShield Garage Floor Coating: A two-part epoxy kit known for its high-gloss finish and resistance to chemicals and abrasion.
Top 5 Best Concrete Sealer For Garage
1. Foundation Armor SX5000
The Foundation Armor SX5000 is a penetrating concrete sealer designed to provide long-lasting protection against water, salt, and other damaging elements. This sealer uses silane/siloxane technology to create a hydrophobic barrier that prevents water from entering the concrete. It’s a great option if you want a sealer that doesn’t change the look of your concrete.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent water repellency.
- ✅ Resists salt damage, ideal for snowy climates.
- ✅ Doesn’t alter the appearance of the concrete.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires thorough cleaning and preparation of the concrete surface.
- ❌ May not provide as much stain resistance as some other sealers.
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some other options.
Verdict: The Foundation Armor SX5000 is a top choice for those needing long-term water and salt protection without altering the concrete’s natural look. It’s a solid investment if you live where they salt the roads in winter.
2. Ghost Shield Siloxa-Tek 8500
Ghost Shield Siloxa-Tek 8500 is another penetrating concrete sealer that offers deep protection against water damage, stains, and freeze-thaw cycles. This sealer is designed to penetrate deep into the concrete pores, creating a durable barrier that resists moisture intrusion. I’ve heard great things about its longevity, which is a big plus.
Pros:
- ✅ Deep penetration for long-lasting protection.
- ✅ Excellent resistance to water and stains.
- ✅ Breathable formula allows moisture vapor to escape.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be tricky to apply evenly.
- ❌ Requires a completely dry surface for optimal penetration.
- ❌ May not provide a noticeable change in appearance.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a durable, long-lasting sealer that provides excellent water and stain resistance, the Ghost Shield Siloxa-Tek 8500 is a great option. It’s ideal for those who want a sealer that performs without changing the look of the concrete.
3. Armor AR350
Armor AR350 is a solvent-based acrylic concrete sealer that provides a wet look and glossy finish. This sealer enhances the color of the concrete while providing protection against water, stains, and UV damage. It’s a good choice if you want to give your garage floor a more polished and visually appealing look.
Pros:
- ✅ Enhances concrete color with a glossy, wet look.
- ✅ Provides good protection against water and stains.
- ✅ Easy to apply with a roller or sprayer.
Cons:
- ❌ Solvent-based formula can have strong odors.
- ❌ May require multiple coats for optimal protection.
- ❌ Not as breathable as penetrating sealers.
Verdict: The Armor AR350 is a good choice if you’re looking to enhance the appearance of your concrete floor with a glossy, wet look while still providing decent protection. Just be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area because of the solvent fumes.
4. KILZ L377611 1-Part Epoxy Concrete and Garage Floor Paint
The KILZ 1-Part Epoxy Concrete and Garage Floor Paint is a durable, easy-to-apply epoxy paint that seals and protects concrete surfaces. This paint provides a protective coating that resists stains, chemicals, and abrasion. It’s a good option if you want to give your garage floor a fresh, clean look while also providing a durable protective layer. I used this in my last house and it held up pretty well to moderate use.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to apply with a brush or roller.
- ✅ Provides a durable, protective coating.
- ✅ Resists stains, chemicals, and abrasion.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires thorough surface preparation.
- ❌ May require multiple coats for optimal coverage.
- ❌ Not as resistant to hot tire pickup as two-part epoxies.
Verdict: The KILZ 1-Part Epoxy Concrete and Garage Floor Paint is a solid choice for those looking for an easy-to-apply, durable paint that seals and protects concrete. It’s a good option for homeowners who want to improve the look of their garage floor without the complexity of a two-part epoxy system.
5. Rust-Oleum EpoxyShield Garage Floor Coating
The Rust-Oleum EpoxyShield Garage Floor Coating is a two-part epoxy kit that provides a high-gloss, durable finish. This coating is designed to resist chemicals, abrasion, and hot tire pickup. It’s a popular choice for garage floors because of its durability and professional-looking finish. A friend of mine swears by this stuff for his workshop.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a high-gloss, durable finish.
- ✅ Excellent resistance to chemicals and abrasion.
- ✅ Resists hot tire pickup.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires careful mixing and application.
- ❌ Longer drying time compared to other options.
- ❌ Surface must be meticulously prepared for proper adhesion.
Verdict: The Rust-Oleum EpoxyShield Garage Floor Coating is an excellent choice for those who want a professional-grade, durable finish that can withstand heavy use and chemical spills. It’s ideal for serious DIYers willing to invest the time and effort for a long-lasting, high-quality result.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right concrete sealer for your garage floor depends on several factors, including the type of concrete, the level of protection you need, and your desired finish. Here are some things to consider:
- Type of Sealer: Penetrating sealers (silane/siloxane) provide invisible protection by repelling water and preventing damage from within. Acrylic sealers enhance the appearance of the concrete and offer good surface protection. Epoxy coatings provide a durable, chemical-resistant finish.
- Level of Protection: Consider the amount of traffic, exposure to chemicals, and climate conditions your garage floor will face. If you live in an area with harsh winters, a sealer that resists salt damage is crucial.
- Finish: Decide whether you want a natural look, a wet look, or a glossy finish. Penetrating sealers won’t change the appearance of the concrete, while acrylic sealers and epoxy coatings can provide a glossy or wet look.
- Ease of Application: Some sealers are easier to apply than others. Consider your DIY skills and the amount of time you’re willing to invest in the project. One-part epoxy paints are generally easier to apply than two-part epoxy kits.
- Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is essential for any concrete sealer to adhere properly. Clean the concrete thoroughly, remove any grease or oil stains, and repair any cracks or damage before applying the sealer.
FAQs
Q: How often should I seal my garage floor?
A: It depends on the type of sealer you use and the amount of traffic your garage floor receives. Penetrating sealers typically last longer than acrylic sealers, but it’s generally recommended to reseal your garage floor every 2-5 years.
Q: Can I apply a concrete sealer to a painted garage floor?
A: No, you should not apply a concrete sealer over paint. The sealer won’t be able to penetrate the concrete properly, and the paint may prevent the sealer from adhering correctly.
Q: How do I prepare my garage floor before sealing?
A: Start by cleaning the floor thoroughly with a concrete cleaner and a scrub brush. Remove any grease or oil stains with a degreaser. Rinse the floor well and allow it to dry completely before applying the sealer. Repair any cracks or damage with a concrete patch.
Q: What’s the difference between a one-part and two-part epoxy?
A: One-part epoxies are pre-mixed and easier to apply, but they’re generally not as durable as two-part epoxies. Two-part epoxies require mixing two components together before application, but they provide a stronger, more chemical-resistant finish.
Conclusion
Choosing the best concrete sealer for your garage floor is about weighing the pros and cons of each type and considering your specific needs. Whether you prioritize long-lasting protection, enhanced appearance, or ease of application, there’s a sealer on this list that can help you protect and beautify your garage floor. Take your time, do your research, and choose the sealer that’s right for you.
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