9 Best Brick Sealer of 2023 [Reviews & Buyer’s Guide]
Bricks are loved by many for their beautiful aesthetic and sturdiness. However, they are susceptible to cracking under extreme weather conditions. In order to prevent this from happening, builders use a sealant that acts as a shielding layer to preserve the brick. The most widely used sealants are clear to keep that rugged brick design […]
Best Brick Sealers
1. Black Diamond Stoneworks Wet Look Sealer – Best for Preserving Color
While clear sealants may be widely used, the gloss sealant from Black Diamond adds an elegant, polished look to any type of masonry. Bricks are a suitable material for this sealant as it does not darken their color. Furthermore, it is resistant to water, chemicals, UV rays, and any blunt force, providing all-around protection.- BEAUTIFUL GLOSS SEALER Works on exposed aggregate, stamped,...
- SPRAY, BRUSH OR ROLL on concrete, pavers, slate, driveways,...
- Covers 500 feet
- Easy water cleanup
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Preserves color of the brick
- Potential milky sheen
2. MasonryDefender All-Purpose Sealer – Best for Waterproofing
Clear formula with fantastic waterproofing features is what makes up this all-purpose sealer from MasonryDefender. It is a breathable formula which means any trapped moisture is let out to prevent a film from forming. Additionally, it is resistant to freeze and thaw damage making it perfect for surfaces exposed to regular moisture.- Clear, Waterproofing Protection for All Exterior, Porous...
- Waterproofs and Protects Masonry & Concrete Surfaces from...
- Low odor
- Waterproofs porous materials
- Clear finish
- Does not form moisture pockets
- Potential darkening on some surfaces
3. Foundation Armor SX5000 – Best for Natural Look
Approved and used by the Department of Transportation in several states to protect roads and bridge decks, the SX5000 from Foundation Armor is a trusty sealant option. Not only does it have a clear finish, but it preserves the natural texture and color of the material it covers.- Ships same day, fast and free.
- Reduces damage caused by water absorption.
- No peeling or flaking
- Up to seven to ten years of protection
- Easy pump spray application
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use
- Requires specific conditions for application
4. Thompson’s Water Seal 24111
Thompsons Water Seal is a versatile sealant to waterproof a variety of material surfaces. It works best on more porous surfaces to build a barrier against moisture. The waterproofing is strong enough to bead the water on most surfaces completely. Additionally, it is easy to apply to any surface with a brush or roller. Overall, it is a safe choice for sealing porous surfaces from moisture.- Prevents water damage
- Beads and waterproofs a variety of surfaces
- VOC compliant
- Strong waterproofing
- One coat is sufficient
- Easy application with a spray gun or brush
- Exterior use only
5. Foundation Armor WL550
Another great product from Foundation Armor, the WL550, is an excellent choice for those who want the “wet look” on their masonry. It attains this effect by darkening the surface material slightly. As it is a penetrating sealant, there is no film formed on the surface; all the protection is within the material itself.- Water repellent characteristics help to reduce damage caused...
- Breathable, low VOC, single coat application
- Breathable formula
- Easy and simple application
- Single coat application
- It lasts three to five years
- Susceptible to white spotting
6. LastiSeal Brick & Masonry Sealer
For an excellent sealant that can be used indoors or outdoors, LastiSeal offers an outstanding formula in their brick and masonry sealer. A 15-year warranty backs their claims of a long-lasting waterproof barrier. Additionally, it is resistant to UV and freezing damage as well for complete protection against any natural elements.- Unsurpassed Protection and Service Life – 15-year...
- Water-based, No Odor, Non-Toxic, Non-Flammable
- No odor
- Indoor and outdoor use
- It prevents spalling and dusting
- Spray, roll, or brush application
- Thin viscosity
7. MasonryDefender Interior/Exterior Brick Sealer
Designed for use exclusively with bricks, this sealant from MasonryDefender is a heavy-duty performer. It is compatible with both indoor and outdoor bricks to keep out moisture and preserve the integrity of the brick. Maintaining the color of the brick is essential, but the MasonryDefender sealant also adds a slight sheen when dried for a clean look.- MASONRY SEALER - Works as Both an Interior Brick Sealer &...
- CREATES AN ATTRACTIVE CLEAR, SATIN SHEEN - Doesn't Change...
- Water-based acrylic formula
- Dries in one to two hours
- Easy application with a brush, roller, or airless sprayer
- Shinier finish with more coats
- Potential clouding on material
8. Serveon Sealants H2Seal H2100
Serveon’s sealant is truly a feat in the waterproofing sealant world. A clear formula that can keep your bricks looking their natural best while keeping moisture out. Stains and other growth like moss and mold are removed with this formula. Paired with an easy application process that leaves no white film, the Serveon is a fantastic option.- Prolongs Stone Life While Retaining the Natural Look:...
- Uses Breakthrough Cross-Linking Technology: H2Seal's grout...
- One coat application
- Stops cloudy layer from forming
- Clear finish
- Dries quickly
- Thin viscosity may require more coats
9. LastiSeal Brick & Concrete Sealer
Another sealant from the LastiSeal brand, the brick, and concrete formula, is an alternative sealant option. It shares similarities with the sealant from LastiSeal that is specialized in brick and masonry. All the protective resistances to UV rays, de-icing salt, and water are present in this sealant.- 15-YEAR WATERPROOFING WARRANTY - Unsurpassed protection and...
- WATERPROOFS & STRENGTHENS – Not only seals, but also...
- Easy application with spray, brush, or roll
- No-slip finish
- Long-lasting life
- Clear finish
- Requires specific conditions for application
Best Brick Sealers Comparison Table
Product | Suitable Surface | Dimensions | Weight | Dry Time | Indoor | Outdoor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Black Diamond Stoneworks Wet Look Sealer | Masonry, Bricks | 7 x 4.5 x 11.25 inches | 8.4 pounds | N/A | Yes | Yes |
MasonryDefender All-Purpose Sealer | Porous | 12.13 x 8.11 x 3.98 inches | 8.56 pounds | 2- 6 hours | Yes | Yes |
Foundation Armor SX5000 | Roads, Bridge decks, Porous | 15 x 15 x 12 inches | 38 pounds | N/A | Yes | Yes |
Thompson’s Water Seal 24111 | Porous | 7 x 4.5 x 12.25 inches | 9.55 pounds | N/A | No | Yes |
Foundation Armor WL550 | Concrete, Brick, Masonry | N/A | N/A | N/A | Yes | Yes |
LastiSeal Brick & Masonry Sealer | Masonry, Concrete, Wood | 12.71 x 6.42 x 6.3 inches | 9 pounds | 1 – 3 hours | Yes | Yes |
MasonryDefender Interior/Exterior Brick Sealer | Bricks | 11.77 x 7.83 x 4.13 inches | 8.82 pounds | 1 – 2 hours | Yes | Yes |
Serveon Sealants H2Seal H2100 | Bricks | 6.5 x 3.5 x 11.5 inches | 8.65 pounds | 1 hour | Yes | Yes |
LastiSeal Brick & Concrete Sealer | Bricks, Concrete, Porous | 15 x 10 x 10 inches | 23 pounds | 1 – 3 hours | Yes | Yes |
Buying Guide For The Best Brick Sealer
Sealing bricks is often an overlooked necessity as, in our daily lives, bricks are the most widely used sturdy construction materials. While they may be able to withstand significant amounts of force, moisture and extreme exposure can break them down from the inside. Moisture can seep into untreated brick and expand the pores inside, causing it to crack and decay. Similarly, freezing and thawing of ice surrounding the brick cause the brick to expand and contract, also causing an eventual breakdown. This is why a sealer is a necessary precaution to take in order to preserve the look and quality of the brick for extended periods of time. However, sealers have different attributes that protect the brick from specific contaminants better than other sealant options. In order to make the most informed decision, keep in mind these points to ensure the sealer you buy has all the right specifications for your bricks’ condition.Finishing Options
Some brick sealants have a special finish that can bring a specific look to the brick once dried. Common finishes in brick and masonry sealants are clear, “wet look,” and matte look. For those who wish to maintain the natural look of the brick, a clear finishing formula can be used. This solution permeates the brick, and it is not immediately evident that a sealer has been applied. As is evident from its name, the “wet look” sealer finish gives off a wet look to the brick once dried. Some prefer wet-look finishes as they keep the brick looking new and high-quality. The caveat here is the potential for a white film to form, albeit the chances of it occurring are not guaranteed. Matte finishes are used to add a subtle look to the treated brick. These matte finishes are not as shiny as the wet-look finishes and not as see-through as a clear finish. It gives off more of a sheen that is between the two other finishing options. Depending on the material being treated, different finishes will have different effects. Keep in mind how the finish will interact with the brick when choosing a sealant.Interior Or Exterior Use
When choosing a sealer, one of the most important factors is whether the brick to be treated is indoors or outdoors. Depending on the location of the brickwork, some sealers will work better than others. Exterior sealers are typically more durable in handling climatic conditions such as UV rays and heavy moisture exposure. These sealers are explicitly designed to be able to hold up in these conditions. On the other hand, sealers that are meant for interior work will not perform well in outdoor conditions. They have been formulated to protect against different kinds of contamination and breakdown.Application Method
The number of coats required determines how much sealant is needed for a project. One-coat applications use far less formula and are easier to apply. Alternatively, multiple coats can be tedious for larger areas and require more sealer. Depending on the viscosity of the sealant, the application method will have different effectiveness. Spraying is compatible with thinner sealers and gives an even coat, while brushes or rollers are better suited for thicker viscosity sealers.Brick Sealers FAQs
Brick sealers are necessary to protect bricks from moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and other contaminants that can cause decay and deterioration. They help extend the lifespan of the bricks and maintain their appearance.
No, it is important to choose a sealer specifically formulated for the intended use. Exterior sealers are designed to withstand UV rays and heavy moisture exposure, making them more durable for outdoor conditions. Interior sealers are formulated to protect against different types of contamination and are not suitable for outdoor use. Using the appropriate sealer for each application will ensure optimal protection.
The effectiveness of the application method depends on the viscosity of the sealer. Thinner sealers are well-suited for spraying, as it provides an even coat. Thicker viscosity sealers are better applied using brushes or rollers to ensure proper coverage. Choose the application method that is compatible with the sealer you are using for the best results.
The longevity of a brick sealer depends on various factors, including the type of sealer, environmental conditions, and maintenance. In general, brick sealers can last anywhere from a few years to over a decade. It is recommended to reapply the sealer when signs of wear or water absorption become noticeable. Regular maintenance and cleaning can also help prolong the lifespan of the sealer.