Best Concrete Sealer for Driveways and Patios

How often should you reseal your concrete, and what kind of sealer should you use?

If you’ve got a concrete driveway or patio here in Wisconsin, you already know, it goes through a lot.

Between harsh winters, UV rays, oil stains, salt, and constant use, your concrete takes a beating. And while concrete is strong, it’s not maintenance-free. Over time, it can wear down, crack, and lose its clean, finished look if it’s not protected. That’s why sealing matters.

So in this article, you’ll learn what a sealer actually does, the different types available, 

and how often you should reseal to keep your concrete protected and looking great for years to come.

Okay, so what does a concrete sealer actually do, and why does it matter?

A good sealer protects your concrete in 4 key ways...

• It blocks moisture, which helps prevent cracking and surface damage, especially during freeze-thaw cycles.

• It repels stains from oil, grease, and other spills, making cleanup easier.

• It shields your concrete from sun damage, preventing fading or breakdown from UV rays.

• It improves the appearance. Depending on the type, it can give your surface a natural, matte, or glossy finish.

Whether you’re trying to protect your investment, or just want it to look better, a good sealer makes a noticeable difference.

What are the different types of concrete sealers,

and which one lasts the longest?

There are a 5 main types, and each has its pros and cons.

1. Acrylic sealers are popular and give a glossy look, but they wear down faster. Expect to reseal every 1 to 3 years.

2. Silicone-based sealers don’t change the look and last longer, typically 3 to 5 years.

3. Polyurethane sealers are tougher. Great for high-traffic driveways or patios. Also 3 to 5 years of protection.

4. Epoxy sealers are extremely durable, but not ideal for areas with direct sunlight, they can yellow. Best for garages or shaded areas.

5. Penetrating sealers absorb into the concrete and protect from within. They last 5 years or more and don’t change the appearance at all.

Each type of sealer serves a different purpose, it just depends on your priorities. So the question is, how often should you reseal your driveway or patio?

Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Acrylic sealers: every 1 to 3 years

• Polyurethane or epoxy: every 3 to 5 years

• Penetrating sealers: every 5+ years

Keep in mind, this depends on use, weather, and exposure. More traffic or sunlight means more frequent resealing. Less use and more shade? You can stretch it longer.

Now, let's go over what really affects how long your concrete sealer lasts. There are four key factors...

1. Climate – Freeze-thaw cycles, rain, and snow wear sealers down faster.

2. Traffic – More cars or foot traffic means more wear.

3. Sun exposure – UV rays break down the sealer, especially glossy finishes.

4. Spills – Oil, salt, or fertilizer can degrade the surface coating over time.

Understanding these factors helps you plan resealing at the right time, not too early, and not too late.

If you're still not sure which sealer is best for your home, here’s a quick way to decide.

• If you want long-lasting protection without changing the look, choose a penetrating sealer.

• If you like a glossy finish and are okay resealing more often, go with acrylic.

• If you’ve got a high-traffic area, or want a tough, stain-resistant layer, look at polyurethane or epoxy.

Choosing the right sealer depends on your goals, traffic, and how much maintenance you’re okay with long term.

If you’re not sure what condition your concrete is in, or what kind of sealer makes the most sense, that’s exactly what we’re here to help with. Just click the link below to schedule a free 15-minute consultation and estimate.

We’ll take a look at your driveway or patio, answer your questions, and give you honest, expert advice, no pressure, just what’s best for your home.

Thanks for reading. We look forward to talking with you soon.

Get FREE Estimate