What Is The Best Concrete Sealer?

The best concrete sealer depends on the type of concrete surface, level of protection required and the finish you want to achieve. Solvent-based concrete sealers are popular for exposed aggregate, decorative concrete and concrete driveways because they enhance colour and can provide a semi gloss finish. Water-based concrete sealers are often chosen where lower odour and reduced VOC levels are preferred.

How Much Concrete Sealer Do I Need?

Coverage rates vary depending on the concrete sealer, surface type, porosity and number of coats applied. Use the coverage calculator located on each product page to estimate the amount of concrete sealer required for your project.

How Many Coats Of Concrete Sealer Should I Apply?

Most concrete sealers achieve the best results with two coats. Many water-based concrete sealing systems require a primer coat followed by two top coats. Always refer to the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for product-specific recommendations.

How Long Does Concrete Sealer Last On Driveways And Exposed Aggregate?

Most concrete sealers last between 2 and 7 years depending on the product type, traffic levels, UV exposure, weather conditions and ongoing maintenance. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of a sealed concrete surface.

How Do I Prepare New Or Green Concrete Before Sealing?

New concrete must be allowed to properly cure before applying concrete sealer. The surface should be clean, dry and free from curing compounds, laitance, debris and contaminants. Always refer to the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for minimum curing times and preparation requirements.

Can Concrete Sealer Be Applied Over An Existing Sealer?

Application over an existing concrete sealer depends on the type and condition of the original coating. Some concrete sealers are compatible with existing coatings while others may cause adhesion issues, whitening, peeling, bubbling or coating failure.

What Is The Difference Between Solvent-Based And Water-Based Concrete Sealer?

Solvent-based and water-based concrete sealers are formulated differently and each has advantages depending on the application. Water-based concrete sealers are often chosen for their lower odour, easier cleanup and reduced VOC levels. Solvent-based concrete sealers are commonly used where fast drying times, compatibility with existing coatings or specific finish characteristics are desired.

Should I Dilute The First Coat Of Solvent-Based Concrete Sealer?

For dense or less porous concrete surfaces, the first coat is often diluted with up to 30% xylene to improve penetration and adhesion. For highly porous concrete, dilution is often not required. Always refer to the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for product-specific recommendations.

Can Xylene Be Used For Concrete Sealer Cleanup?

Yes. Xylene is commonly used for cleaning rollers, brushes and equipment after applying solvent-based acrylic concrete sealers. It should only be used with compatible products and handled in accordance with the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

How Long Before I Can Walk On A Sealed Concrete Surface?

Many sealed concrete surfaces can be lightly trafficked after approximately 3 to 5 hours and walked on after 12 to 24 hours following the final coat. Drying and curing times vary depending on the product and environmental conditions.

Prime Aqua Primer 10L water based concrete primer for improving adhesion and performance of concrete sealers and coatings

Prime Exposure Prime Aqua Primer

10L

$115.00 AUD

Prime Exposure Prime Aqua Primer

WATER-BASED FORMULA

Prime Exposure Prime Aqua Primer

Prime Aqua Primer is a water-based acrylic concrete primer designed as a foundation for Prime Aqua Coloured and Clear Top Coat system. This Primer is designed to penetrate, consolidate and prepare concrete and masonry surfaces prior to coating. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, it creates a strong foundation improving adhesion, durability and long-term coating performance.

$115.00 AUD

Price Includes GST

In stock

TRADE & VOLUME PRICING - PHONE ORDERS ONLY

Trade and volume pricing is available by phone. For concreters, contractors, landscapers, builders and bulk orders with a valid ABN. Click to learn more >

Water-Based Acrylic Formulation
Penetrating & Consolidating Primer
Suitable for Damp or Moist Surfaces
Fast Drying Technology
Recoat Time: Approximately 30–60 Minutes (Weather Dependent)
Coverage: 6-7sqm Per Litre. Approximately 150–180m² per 20L Drum

Surface Preparation

Thoroughly pressure clean the surface using a pressure washer capable of delivering a minimum of 2000 PSI to remove dirt, dust, debris, loose material and surface contaminants.

Where required, use a suitable concrete cleaning solution to remove oil, grease, mould, algae and other contaminants. For dense or smooth concrete surfaces, use G.A.R (Green Acid Replacement) or Hydrochloric Acid to etch the surface and open the pores of the concrete, promoting proper primer penetration and adhesion.

Once preparation is complete, thoroughly rinse the surface to remove all residues and neutralise any remaining acid. Allow the surface to dry before application.

Ensure the surface is clean, porous, sound and free from contaminants including dirt, grease, oil, curing compounds and loose material prior to application. This primer can be applied to a slightly damp porous concrete substrate; however, a dry surface is always preferred.

Application

Prime Aqua Primer must be applied as the first coat prior to Prime Aqua Top Coat to ensure proper adhesion, surface consolidation and long-term coating performance.

Apply an even coat using a roller (13mm nap), broom or suitable spray equipment.

Under typical conditions, Prime Aqua Top Coat can be applied approximately 30–60 minutes after the primer has dried sufficiently. Drying times may vary depending on temperature, humidity and substrate conditions.

Application Conditions

Water-based sealers are generally more forgiving than their solvent-based counterparts; however, care should still be taken to achieve the best possible results.

Apply only when air and surface temperatures are above 15°C.
For best results, apply when the concrete surface is in a cooling cycle and both the air and substrate temperatures are at least 5°C above the dew point.
Do not apply in direct sunlight or during a rising concrete temperature cycle.
Do not apply during periods of high humidity, condensation, fog, mist, or when moisture is present in or on the surface.
Avoid application where environmental conditions may affect curing, adhesion, appearance or finish quality.

Important

Do not apply to concrete during a rising concrete temperature cycle. As the concrete heats, air trapped within the substrate expands and can outgas through the coating, resulting in bubbling, pinholing, entrapment and reduced finish quality.

Pickup & Delivery

Pickup is available by appointment only from our Pakenham warehouse.

For same-day collection, please contact our team before placing your order to confirm stock availability.

Orders are typically prepared within 24–48 hours. Once your order is ready, you will receive an email with collection details and pickup instructions.

Available Options

Local Warehouse Pickup
Private Courier Delivery (Additional Charges Apply)

If delivery is required, please contact our team before ordering to discuss available freight options and associated costs.

WATER-BASED FORMULA

SEALS POROUS SURFACES

Decorative concrete coatings and resurfacing products for enhancing and protecting concrete surfaces

FAST DRYING FORMULA

Concrete sealing, resurfacing and coating solutions for driveways, pathways and outdoor concrete surfaces

SUITABLE FOR NEW CONCRETE

Certified concrete sealers, coatings and surface protection products for professional and DIY applications

PROFESSIONAL GRADE PERFORMANCE

IMPROVES ADHESION

✓ Exposed Aggregate Concrete
✓ Plain Concrete
✓ Decorative Concrete
✓ Concrete Driveways
✓ Garage Floors
✓ Patios & Alfresco Areas
✓ Pathways & Walkways
✓ Masonry Surfaces
✓ Porous Concrete Surfaces

KEY BENEFITS

• Premium Water-Based Acrylic Primer
• Advanced Penetrating & Bonding Technology
• Suitable for Slightly Damp or Moist Concrete Surfaces
• Fast Drying Formula
• Low Odour Formulation
• Improves Adhesion & Surface Consolidation
• Helps Reduce Concrete Dusting
• Efflorescence & Alkali Resistant
• Suitable for Indoor & Outdoor Applications
• Suitable for Concrete & Masonry Surfaces

DOWNLOADS

⬇️ Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
⬇️ Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Please refer to the Technical Data Sheet for complete application instructions and product specifications.

HOW MUCH SEALER DO I NEED?

To calculate how much sealer you'll need, measure the length and width of each concrete area and multiply them together.

Formula:
Length (m) × Width (m) = Total Area (m²)

Example:
Driveway: 10m long × 4m wide = 40m²

If your project has multiple sections, calculate each area separately and add them together.

Tips:

• Measure in metres for the most accurate result.

• Include driveways, paths, patios and pool surrounds.

• Round up your measurements if unsure.

• Our calculator includes an allowance for product absorption and application rates.

Take the Guesswork Out of Cleaning & Sealing and use our coverage calculator to estimate your sealer requirements in minutes and start your project knowing you've got the right amount of product.

Surface Area (m²)

Number of Coats

*Recommended for this product: 1 coat

CONCRETE SEALING & SEALER FAQ'S

Coverage rates vary depending on the product, surface type, porosity and number of coats applied. Use the coverage calculator above to estimate the amount of sealer required for your project. Porous surfaces typically require more product, while dense or previously sealed surfaces often achieve greater coverage. Always allow a small amount of extra product to ensure complete coverage.

Most concrete sealers achieve the best results with two coats. The first coat penetrates and bonds to the surface, while the second coat provides additional protection, durability and finish enhancement. Highly porous concrete may require additional product or coats to achieve the desired appearance and performance. Always refer to the product Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for specific application recommendations.

Yes. Many of our products are suitable for DIY application when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Proper surface preparation, suitable weather conditions and correct application techniques are essential for achieving professional results. Always read the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) before commencing your project.

The surface should be clean, dry and free from dirt, grease, mould, algae, efflorescence and any existing failing coatings. Depending on the condition of the concrete, preparation may involve pressure cleaning, degreasing, acid etching, grinding, crack repairs or coating removal. Proper preparation is critical to achieving good adhesion and long-term sealer performance.

New concrete must be allowed to properly cure before sealing. The recommended curing period varies depending on the type of sealer being used and the manufacturer's recommendations. Before sealing, the surface should be clean, dry and free from curing compounds, laitance, construction debris and contaminants that may affect adhesion.

Some concrete surfaces may require acid etching, grinding or pressure cleaning to open the surface and promote sealer penetration. Always refer to the product Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for minimum curing times and preparation requirements before application.

Application over existing coatings depends on the type and condition of the original sealer. Some products are compatible with existing coatings, while others may cause adhesion issues, whitening, peeling or coating failure. If your concrete has previously been sealed, we recommend performing a compatibility test or contacting us for advice before application.

It depends on the porosity of the concrete and the weather conditions during application. For dense or less porous concrete surfaces, we generally recommend diluting the first coat with up to 30% xylene to improve penetration and adhesion. This helps the sealer soak into the surface rather than sitting on top, resulting in better bonding and long-term performance.

For highly porous concrete, dilution is often not required as the surface will readily absorb the sealer. Depending on the porosity of the concrete, additional coats may be required to achieve the desired finish and protection.

Always refer to the product Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for specific dilution recommendations.

Yes. Xylene is commonly used for cleaning rollers, brushes and equipment after applying solvent-based acrylic concrete sealers. It can also be used during maintenance and recoat applications to help soften and reactivate compatible solvent-based acrylic sealers.

However, xylene is a powerful solvent and can damage, soften or remove incompatible coatings, paints, plastics, rubber, asphalt and certain decorative finishes. Always test in an inconspicuous area before use and avoid contact with surfaces that may be affected by strong solvents.

Xylene should only be used with compatible solvent-based products and must be handled in accordance with the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Always ensure adequate ventilation, wear appropriate PPE and follow all safety precautions during use.

Under normal weather conditions, most sealed surfaces can be walked on within 24 hours of the final coat. Drying times may vary depending on temperature, humidity, product type and ventilation. Refer to the product Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for specific drying and curing information.

For most concrete sealing applications, vehicle traffic should be kept off the surface for approximately 5 to 7 days after the final coat. This allows the sealer to properly cure and develop maximum durability. Premature vehicle traffic may damage the coating and affect the final finish.

Technical Data Sheets (TDS) and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are available on each product page under the Downloads section. These documents contain important information regarding coverage rates, surface preparation, application methods, drying times, safety requirements and product limitations. We recommend reviewing the TDS and SDS before commencing any project.

FREQUENTLY BOUGHT TOGETHER