Buying Guide for the Best Brick Water Sealer
Choosing a brick water sealer is all about protecting your brick surfaces from water damage, mold, and staining. A good sealer keeps water out while allowing the bricks to breathe, which helps maintain their strength and appearance over the years. When picking a sealer, it's important to consider what you're sealing (walls, patios, chimneys, etc.), whether it's interior or exterior, and the look you want to keep or achieve. Understanding a few key specifications will help you find the best fit for your project.Type of SealerBrick water sealers usually come in two main types: penetrating sealers and film-forming sealers. Penetrating sealers soak into the brick, protecting it from within, so they don't change how your brick looks. Film-forming sealers create a protective layer on the surface, which might give a sheen or change the color slightly. If you want your bricks to look the same but protected, go for penetrating. If you want a glossy or wet-look finish, a film-forming sealer might be the right choice. Think about the effect you want and whether the surface is exposed to heavy weather to decide.
BreathabilityBreathability means how well the sealed brick can let water vapor escape while still blocking liquid water from getting in. Good breathability helps prevent trapped moisture, which can cause damage over time. Some sealers, especially penetrating ones, allow the bricks to breathe, which is ideal for most exterior applications. If you’re sealing something outside or in a damp area, choose a sealer known for high breathability to keep your bricks healthy.
Water RepellencyWater repellency describes how well the sealer prevents water from soaking into the brick. Sealers with high water repellency are best for surfaces exposed to rain, splashing, or high humidity. Not all sealers block water equally, so check if the product mentions 'water repellent' or 'hydrophobic.' For porch floors, exterior walls, or chimneys, a strong water repellent sealer is important to prevent damage and staining.
Longevity (Durability)Longevity, or how long the sealer lasts, is important because some products protect bricks for just a year or two, while others can last up to a decade. The durability can depend on how much weather and traffic the surface gets. If you don’t want to reapply sealer often, look for one with a longer lifespan. For areas with heavy rain or sun, durability should be a top priority.
Finish (Appearance)The finish refers to how the brick will look once the sealer has dried. Some sealers leave a completely invisible look, while others add shine or deepen the brick color. Consider if you want to change the appearance of your bricks or keep them natural. For preserving the current look, pick a sealer that promises an invisible or matte finish. For enhancing color or adding gloss, choose a sealer that produces a wet look or shiny surface.
Application MethodApplication method describes how the sealer is applied – by brush, roller, sprayer, or sometimes even wipe-on pads. Some sealers are easier to apply than others, depending on the area size and surface texture. If you have a large wall or patio, look for a sealer that can be sprayed for faster application. For small, detailed areas, something that can be brushed or rolled might be simpler and more precise.