Answering the search for a high gloss epoxy-style finish, these sealers provide a wet look, color enhancement, and lasting protection for exterior concrete and pavers. Best for contractors, homeowners updating driveways, patios, or walkways, or anyone wanting a showroom shine. The following selections prioritize high gloss, clear or color-enhancing finishes, and reliable durability. Use this guide to compare application style, coverage, and suitability for outdoor surfaces. The table below highlights five top options chosen for strong gloss, longevity, and practical use in real-world settings.
| Product | Finish Type | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Armor AR500 High Gloss Wet Look (5 gal) | High gloss, solvent-based | Exterior concrete and pavers needing dramatic color and long-lasting protection | 700 VOC, professional grade |
| Armor AR350 Low Gloss Wet Look (5 gal) | Low gloss wet look, solvent-based | Areas desiring a natural yet enhanced shine | 700 VOC, durable finish |
| DOMINATOR SG+ Clear Acrylic Sealer (1 gal) | High gloss, water-based acrylic | Driveways, patios, and walkways with fast dry time | 2-4 year protection depending on environment |
| DOMINATOR High Gloss Wet Look Paver Sealer (1 gal) | High gloss, water-based | Outdoor pavers and decorative concrete | Resists stains and weather damage |
| Rust-Oleum Seal-Krete Turbo Wet Look Spray (24 oz) | High gloss, solvent-based spray | Quick, even coat on exterior masonry and decorative concrete | Turbo spray system, 2 hours ready for light foot traffic |
Armor AR500 High Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer (5 Gallon)
Best for professional-grade exterior applications, Armor AR500 offers a dramatic color enhancement with a non-yellowing high gloss finish. It is designed for unsealed concrete and pavers, as well as surfaces previously sealed with a solvent-based acrylic sealer. The finish provides long-lasting protection against abrasion, UV exposure, water absorption, and winter conditions. Best for contractors or homeowners seeking a showroom-like wet look on driveways, patios, and entryways. A potential limitation is the 700 VOC level, which may require proper ventilation and local compliance checks.
Armor AR500 High Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer (1 Gallon)
This 1-gallon option is ideal for smaller projects or touch-ups where a deep, glossy finish is desired. It shares the same professional-grade formulation and color enhancement to darken and enrich concrete and pavers. Best for single-room patios or smaller outdoor spaces. Caution: applicator technique and drying conditions influence gloss uniformity; test a small area first to avoid streaking.
Armor AR350 Low Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer (5 Gallon)
AR350 provides a lighter gloss compared with AR500, delivering a refined wet look with substantial color enhancement. Suitable for exterior concrete and pavers, and it’s designed for durability against traffic and weather. Choose this if you prefer a subtler shine while preserving a natural appearance. Limitation: lower gloss may not satisfy buyers seeking a high-gloss finish on highly visible surfaces.
DOMINATOR SG+ Clear Acrylic Sealer (1 Gal)
DOMINATOR SG+ is a water-based alternative offering a clear, high gloss wet look with color enhancement. It’s designed for decorative concrete, pavers, and driveways, with a generous coverage rate. Best for surfaces where faster drying and lower odor are beneficial. A caveat is that it is not intended for stone or clay in some environments, so verify substrate compatibility.
DOMINATOR High Gloss Wet Look Paver Sealer (1 Gal)
This DOMINATOR product is tailored for outdoor pavers and decorative concrete, delivering a bold high gloss finish that enhances color depth and provides weather resistance. Best for homeowners seeking a durable, visually striking surface. It’s not designed for stone or tile in some cases, so confirm surface type before applying.
Rust-Oleum Seal-Krete 357925 Wet Look Turbo Concrete Sealer Spray (24 oz)
High gloss spray sealer designed for exterior concrete, masonry, and decorative surfaces. The Turbo Spray System provides higher output for faster coverage, with a drying time suitable for light foot traffic within hours. Best for quick projects or touch-ups. Limitation: spray application requires careful masking to prevent overspray on unintended areas.
Buying Guide: High Gloss Concrete Sealers
What finish should you expect?
Gloss levels vary from high gloss to low gloss wet looks. If you want a dramatic, showroom-like shine, favor products marketed as high gloss wet look. For a more restrained, natural sheen, consider low gloss options while still achieving color enhancement.
Water-based vs solvent-based
Water-based sealers (like many DOMINATOR variants) tend to have lower odor and easier cleanup, with strong color retention. Solvent-based sealers (like Armor AR500) typically offer deeper color and longer-lasting protection but require good ventilation and solvent handling.
Outdoor suitability and UV resistance
Outdoor use requires UV resistance to prevent yellowing and color fade. Look for formulations described as non-yellowing or UV resistant for exterior applications on concrete and pavers.
Coverage and application
Review coverage rates per gallon and the number of coats recommended. Higher coverage can reduce project time, but ensure you achieve even results. For large areas, five-gallon containers are cost-efficient; smaller cans suit touch-ups or small spaces.
Cautions and substrate compatibility
Some sealers are not suitable for polished stone, tile, or certain decorative surfaces. Always test a small area first and confirm substrate compatibility, especially when applying over previously sealed surfaces or natural stone.
Environmental and safety considerations
Check VOC levels and local environmental regulations. Follow manufacturer safety data guidelines, use proper ventilation, and wear protective gear as needed during application and curing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between high gloss and low gloss sealers?
High gloss provides a stronger reflective finish and more dramatic color enhancement, while low gloss yields a subtler shine with a more natural look.
- Can I apply these sealers over stained surfaces?
Yes, but verify compatibility with the stain and allow proper curing time before sealing.
- How long does a wet look sealer typically last outdoors?
Durability varies by product and environment, but many options offer multi-year performance with maintenance.
- Is a solvent-based sealer better than a water-based one for durability?
Solvent-based sealers often provide deeper color and longer protection, but require ventilation and careful handling.
- Do these sealers require maintenance or resealing?
Yes, resealing intervals depend on traffic, weather, and surface type. Monitor wear and plan resealing accordingly.
- Which sealer is best for quick projects?
Spray-based options like Rust-Oleum Turbo Wet Look offer faster coverage and quicker readiness for light foot traffic.