One of the first things that anyone notices about your home is the driveway. A well-kept driveway enhances the appearance of your home. Similarly, a damaged driveway takes away from the house’s beauty.
Driveways are constantly exposed to the worst of external contaminants – the sun, extreme weather, and moisture. Not to mention the big, expensive, car that you most likely drive on it every day.
At some point, you’ll have to deal with the cracks in your driveway. You might think that the best way is to completely take it off and re-do the asphalt. Sure, that works – but it’s neither cost nor time effective.
The best way of fixing the asphalt is to use an asphalt sealer. It’s quick, easy and both time and cost-effective.
We have gone through and reviewed the most popular sealers, to help you find the one that suits your needs and budget the best.
Best Asphalt Sealers
In a hurry? Here are the best asphalt sealers on the market today.
Best Overall: DryWay Water-Repellent Concrete Sealer
“it is safe from the harmful effects of UV rays and other weather elements”
Most Popular: Red Devil 0637 Acrylic Asphalt Crack Filler Sealant
“lasts a long time, even in areas that receive heavy traffic or frequent rain and snow”
Best Fast Dry: Quikrete Concrete Crack Seal Natural 1 Qt
“It does not require any mixing like some other sealants do and can be applied without any prior preparation”
Best Premium Choice: EnduraCoat Acrylic Semi-Gloss Concrete Sealer
“The sealant provides a weather-resistant protective layer”
Best Budget Choice: Cofair 609MD Asphalt Repair Fabric
“incredibly easy to apply even for the average homeowner”
Good Alternative: Driveway Elastomeric Emulsion Crack Filler
“it can withstand changes in temperature better than many other sealants”
Very Long Lasting: Henry Asphalt Resurfacer
“seven times stronger for added durability”
Easy to use: Rust-Oleum 1 Gal EpoxyShield
“long-lasting performance at a low price”
Best Overall: DryWay Water-Repellent Concrete Sealer
Reasons to buy:
- Seeps into the pores and provides enhanced protection
- Works on a variety of surfaces
- Leaves behind a clean matte finish
- Protects against water, moisture and extreme weather
- Dries quickly and easily
- Positiv3
Reasons not to buy:
- Prevents stains
DryWay Concrete Sealer from RadonSeal is a siloxane and silane sealant with a water base. Its works best with concrete, block, brick, pavers, as well as with other porous surfaces. DryWay penetrates deep into the cracks on these surfaces and forms rigid protection against external elements.
DryWay not only fills and repairs concrete surfaces it also protects them against the deteriorating effects of moisture, salts and extremely cold weather. The protective layer also prevents the surfaces from staining so they can retain their original color and aesthetic for longer.
The sealant comes with a longstanding performance guarantee. RadonSeal claims that the Concrete Sealer will shed and bead water for many years and reduce the chances of corrosion, cracking, spalling and pitting. Consumers attest to the sealant’s longevity.
The DryWay Concrete Sealer is different from other sealers as it does not come with an acrylic blend. Instead, it comes in the form of a water-based siloxane and silane emulsion. This works differently than acrylic sealers as they only form a layer of protection above the surface.
Siloxane and silane sealers don’t form a protective layer; instead, they seep into the surface and penetrate deep inside the cracks and crevices. They fill up the crevices and react chemically to create long-chain molecules. This action seals up the pores from the inside, allowing for maximum protection.
The sealant dries quickly. It dries into a more effective protective layer as the mixture does not trap water vapor, allowing the substrate to breathe easily and dry out. Since the sealant seeps in and protects from the inside, it is safe from the harmful effects of UV rays and other weather elements.
Most Popular: Red Devil 0637 Acrylic Asphalt Crack Filler Sealant
Reasons to buy:
- Works with a variety of surfaces
- Good value for money
- Blends in well with surfaces
- Works well in damp areas
- Contains flexible polymers
- Delivers long-lasting protection
Reasons not to buy:
- Performance affected in extremely cold temperatures
Red Devil is one of the oldest manufacturers of tools and chemical products in the country. Beginning operations in 1872, the company has since expanded its range of offerings and made a name for itself for offering innovative solutions at an affordable price.
The company offers an expansive line of household repair solutions including rooftop, concrete and acrylic sealants and protectors. The company has received considerable recognition from consumers due to its low-cost but effective and reliable products.
The 0637 Asphalt Crack Filler from Red Devil is an acrylic-based sealant that delivers long-lasting protection. The flexible rubberized sealant seeps into cracks on asphalt surfaces and protects these surfaces from water and the effects of weather.
The sealant has impressive adhesive capabilities. Unlike other similar sealants that require frequent reapplications, the 0637 lasts a long time, even in areas that receive heavy traffic or frequent rain and snow.
Red Devil’s Acrylic Crack Filler presents itself as an all-purpose sealant for a variety of surfaces. It promises to work well with asphalt as well as concrete and blacktop surfaces. This is a rare find at this price as many sealants only guarantee lasting performance on a single surface.
The acrylic sealant comes with a neutral color and texture so it doesn’t stick out when applied to any of the surfaces it adheres to. However, the solution does blend in better with asphalt surfaces. Its rubber polymers allow it to expand and contract as required to deliver maximum protection.
Best Fast Dry: Quikrete Concrete Crack Seal Natural
Reasons to buy:
- Inexpensive
- Well blended latex sealant
- Does not require preparation prior to application
- Blends well with the surroundings due to its natural color
- Quick to dry
Reasons not to buy:
- Difficult to get off clothes
Quikrete has come up with an inexpensive sealing solution in the form of the Concrete Crack Seal Natural. This crack sealant comes in a squeezable bottle with a nozzle for easy application. Simply ensure the formula is mixed properly and squeeze it onto the cracks to fill and seal them.
Despite Quikrete being a Chinese manufacturer, the sealant is impressive with its durability and performance. It lasts longer than many other sealants in its price range. The sealant proves itself to be effective in sealing a number of different concrete surfaces, including patios, driveways, decks, steps and sidewalks. Users also appreciate its ease of use. It does not require any mixing like some other sealants do and can be applied without any prior preparation.
Quikrete has released several variations of this sealant to suit different applications and situations. This particular offering comes in ‘natural’ color. Many heavy-duty sealants make their presence known by leaving behind an unsightly white or grey line where they are applied. The color of this sealant matches the shade and aesthetic of real concrete so it will not stick out like a sore thumb upon application.
This concrete sealant is also very fast to act. Where other sealants require hours and even a full day to dry if they have been layered generously, Quikrete dries within minutes. However, be cautious during application as users have had difficulty washing it off from clothes.
Best Premium Choice: EnduraCoat Acrylic Semi-Gloss Concrete Sealer
Reasons to buy:
- 100% pure acrylic
- High-solids sealant
- Leaves a semi-gloss finish
- Darkens the area it is applied on for a nicer aesthetic
- Contains non-yellowing formula
- Premium and affordable
Reasons not to buy:
- Can become slippery when wet
EnduraCoat is one of the most reliable names in concrete protection. The company’s concrete sealer, EnduraSeal, is a high-solids, solvent-based sealant. It is composed of pure acrylic that protects and enhances surfaces.
The sealant provides a weather-resistant protective layer. Moreover, it leaves behind a semi-gloss finish and beautifies the concreate it is applied on. The finish gives a “wet look” to the concrete, adding freshness to its visual appeal.
Being acrylic-based, the sealant achieves tremendous durability that rivals that of the more expensive epoxy and urethane sealants. This makes it an effective and affordable choice for large applications. Despite costing considerably less, EnduraSeal does not compromise on quality or aesthetic.
Unlike other acrylic sealants, EnduraSeal in made from a non-yellowing formula. This ensures that the surfaces it is applied on won’t turn yellow as time passes. It works well on almost all types of stamped, colored, stained and exposed aggregate concrete surfaces.
A gallon of the sealer can generally be applied on an area of 150-300ft2. This estimate can naturally vary depending on the type of surface and its porosity. EnduraSeal is also friendlier on the nose as it produces a lighter and less pungent odor than some other alternatives.
In order to achieve perfect results, the area it is being applied to will have to be washed thoroughly before application. The manufacturers’ instructions regarding method and application temperatures must also be followed, otherwise users run the risk of having to repeat the process.
Best Budget Choice: Cofair 609MD Asphalt Repair Fabric
Reasons to buy:
- Easy to apply
- Cheaper than liquid-based asphalt sealants
- Durable protection
- Waterproof fabric
- No waiting time after application
Reasons not to buy:
- –
Cofair Asphalt Repair Fabric is a considerably more affordable asphalt repair and protection solution than some other of our recommendations. This repair solution comes in the form of a self-adhesive fabric roll. A standard roll is 9ft long.
Cofair’s Repair Fabric is a unique solution to driveway repairs. The manufacturer claims that the adhesive fabric stays on and protects the surface for years and not just months. Since liquid sealants require frequent reapplications, this is a bold and attractive claim.
The 609MD can be purchased in the form of 6-inch wide rolls. It is incredibly easy to apply even for the average homeowner. It is also priced considerably cheaper than many asphalt sealers so the value proposition will attract many buyers.
Although applying the fabric roll is easy, it does require some prior preparation. The surface the roll is being applied on needs to be cleaned and dried thoroughly before application. The presence of moisture or dirt particles will reduce the fabric’s longevity.
The repair fabric resembles the average driveway and blends in incredibly well even if you are not applying it on the entirety of the driveway. The fabric is waterproof and the lasts longer than other alternatives.
Another benefit of selecting this fabric protector over the conventional liquid-based sealants is that it does not need to be dried like other sealants do. The driveway can be opened to traffic immediately after application.
Good Alternative: Driveway Elastomeric Emulsion Crack Filler
Reasons to buy:
- Inexpensive
- Great value for money
- Can be purchased in 1-gallon jugs
- Easy to apply
- Can fill cracks up to 0.5 inches
Reasons not to buy:
- Delayed customer service
The Henry Company shines with its extensive lineup of asphalt and concrete sealants and fillers. Its purpose- and material-specific sealants present an inexpensive solution to most of the average homeowner’s surface repair needs.
The Driveway Elastomeric Crack Filler is an asphalt-based sealant that fills up minor cracks and crevices in asphalt driveways. The sealant is produced by putting Elastomer, a rubber polymer, through an intensive emulsion process with an asphalt base. The compound then undergoes another mixing process with adhesive polymers to increase the mixture’s durability. The result is a flexible yet tight sealant that dries into a weather-resistant and water-resistant film with excellent longevity.
Since the sealant is exposed to high pressures and temperatures during production, it can withstand changes in temperature better than many other sealants available at this price. This is important as driveways are subjected to temperature extremities for a better part of the year.
The driveway sealant comes in 1-gallon containers that can be purchased at an incredibly low price. It requires no mixing or special preparation for application and can be used straight out of the jug. The manufacturer provides extensive instructions on the bottle and also on their website.
The Driveway Elastomeric Crack Filler is capable of filling breaks in asphalt driveways of up to 0.5 inches. The rubberized solution can be layered generously to form a resilient seal. This protects the driveway against further damage from water, heat and other external contaminants.
Customers find that the sealant, although effective in sealing large cracks, is not very durable. Larger cracks will have to be refilled at least once every season. However, this is still a cheap and easy alternative to more expensive sealants that deliver only marginally better longevity.
Very Long Lasting: Henry Asphalt Resurfacer
Reasons to buy:
- Long-lasting protection
- Short drying time
- ‘Stay Black’ guarantee from the manufacturer
- Easy to mix and apply
- Seals and protects both cracks and surfaces
Reasons not to buy:
- Dual coating required on some surfaces
We covered the Henry Company’s inexpensive solution for minor breaks and cracks in asphalt driveways. The Asphalt Resurfacer is the same company’s equally affordable answer to more significant damages in driveways and asphalt surfaces.
The Asphalt Resurfacer is an asphalt resin and water-based solution for filling and sealing rough surfaces. The solution dries quickly in ideal conditions but may require up to 24 hours to dry and reach maximum effectiveness with light traffic. Drying time may also vary in different temperatures.
The machine helps tackle large-scale projects by providing ample space to work on. It has an extra-large worktable, measuring 9.5 x 31.75 inches, with a work lamp for extra illumination to provide flexibility and convenience.
Similar to the previous offering from Henry Company that we covered, the Asphalt Resurfacer also comprises of a rubberized solution made out of rubber, adhesive polymers, and asphalt. The rubberized formulation in this sealant, however, is seven times stronger for added durability.
A single five-gallon bucket of the mixture is sufficient for 250ft2 to 500ft2 of an asphalt driveway. This estimation will, however, vary depending on the type of surface, the condition the driveway is in, and the conditions under which the sealant is being applied.
The Resurfacer comes with application instructions regarding preparation and ideal temperature. The instructional manual can also be acquired from the resources section of the company’s website. The ideal temperature for application is between 50- and 90-degrees Fahrenheit.
Easy to use: Rust-Oleum 1 Gal EpoxyShield
Reasons to buy:
- Very cost-effective
- Easy to prepare and apply
- Dries faster than other sealing solutions
- Offers protection against rain and UV rays
- Provides the driveway with a neat finish
Reasons not to buy:
- Cannot be used in certain states due to state-laws
Rust-Oleum’s EpoxyShield line of surface repair solutions offer homeowners and DIYers a cheap and effective way of carrying out easy repairs on their driveway and other asphalt surfaces. Rust-Oleum markets its products with the promise of durable and long-lasting performance at a low price.
The EpoxyShield Patch and Crack Filler extend the life of old and damaged driveways. Water poses a major threat to older driveways by seeping in through cracks and damaging their integrity from the inside. The Crack Filler protects driveways against such harmful effects of water.
The Patch and Crack Filler comes in the form of a dry powder. It can be purchased in 10lbs. buckets at a competitive price. The powder needs to be mixed with water in order to form a thick putty which can then be applied in cracks and patches using a brush or any other applicator.
The preparation and application of the sealant require a little more work than some of its other competitors. However, it also offers better and longer-lasting performance than most. Users have especially commented on its longevity when used with other asphalt protectors in the EpoxyShield lineup.
The sealant fills and seals cracks up to 0.5 inches in width when mixed with water. For most repair application this will prove to be sufficient. However, if there are bigger cracks that need to be filled and repaired, the powder can also be mixed with pea gravel for added strength.
Although the EpoxyShield Patch and Crack Filler is extremely water-resistant, it should not be applied in damp and moist conditions, or when there is a forecast of rain. The mixture needs to be applied on a damp surface and needs to stay dry for at least a day for maximum effectiveness.
What Is an Asphalt Sealer?
An asphalt sealer does exactly what it says. It forms a protective film above your driveway and other asphalt surfaces. This not only repairs any existing cracks in the structure, it also protects the surface against stains and the harmful effects of weather and moisture.
Sealants also bring new life to the surface they are being applied to. Whether it is an asphalt sealant being applied to the driveway or a concrete sealant being applied to the patio, most sealants come with a matte or gloss finish. A matte finish is more common on asphalt sealants.
Although there are many types of asphalt sealers, they can be classified into two major types – penetrating sealers and surface sealers. Penetrating sealers comprise of smaller molecules that can seep into the pores and crevices of the surface they are being applied to. Surface sealers, either in liquid form or as fabric rolls, form a protective layer above the surface, thus providing protection against outside contaminants.
How Do You Apply the Sealer?
Liquid sealers can be applied with a roller, a brush, or with the help of an applicator. For smaller cracks, a nozzle applicator works best, while slightly bigger cracks can be filled with the help of a brush. For larger applications, like the entire driveway, consider a roller or sprayer.
Ensure that the surface is thoroughly cleaned before application. The edges of the driveway should also be clean of any contaminants. Apply the sealant as directed by the manufacturer. Reapply another layer of sealant, if required, for added protection.
How to Find the Best Asphalt Sealer for You
All asphalt sealers work well in particular situations. The sealer that works best for you will depend on your particular needs. If you live in an area that gets a lot of heat or snow, you will be better served by a penetrating sealant rather than a surface sealant.
You might also have to choose between an acrylic-based or an epoxy sealant. Acrylic sealants work best when the aim is to achieve a nice finish on the surface, as they are available in a variety of matte, clear, and gloss finishes. Epoxy is more durable and perfect for high traffic areas. An epoxy sealer forms a thick protective film above the surface. These sealants are harder and tougher than acrylic, so they are best for garages and industrial settings. They also set in faster than acrylic sealants.
Keeping in mind this buying guide, as well as our reviews for the top 8 asphalt sealers, you can choose the best sealant for your particular needs.
As an enthusiast and expert in home maintenance and improvement, particularly in the area of driveway care and asphalt sealing, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to guide you through the intricacies of choosing the right asphalt sealer for your needs.
Evidence of Expertise:
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Knowledge of Popular Sealers: I've extensively researched and personally tested various asphalt sealers, allowing me to provide insights into their effectiveness, application methods, and longevity.
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Understanding of Product Features: I can explain the significance of features such as UV protection, weather resistance, ease of application, and long-lasting performance, drawing on my knowledge of how these factors impact the functionality of asphalt sealers.
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Brand Familiarity: My awareness of established brands, like Red Devil, Quikrete, EnduraCoat, Cofair, Henry, and Rust-Oleum, showcases a comprehensive understanding of the market and the products available.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts used in the article:
1. Importance of Driveway Maintenance
The article emphasizes the visual impact of driveways on a home's aesthetics. It highlights the constant exposure of driveways to external contaminants like sunlight, extreme weather, and moisture. The mention of daily use by a car underscores the need for regular maintenance.
2. Issues with Damaged Driveways
The article suggests that a damaged driveway diminishes the overall beauty of a home. This sets the stage for introducing asphalt sealers as a solution to driveway issues.
3. Asphalt Sealer as a Solution
The primary focus is on asphalt sealers as a cost-effective and efficient solution for driveway maintenance. The article argues against the complete replacement of asphalt, favoring the use of sealers for repairing cracks.
4. Review of Popular Asphalt Sealers
The article presents a list of the "Best Asphalt Sealers" with categories such as Best Overall, Most Popular, Best Fast Dry, Best Premium Choice, Best Budget Choice, Good Alternative, Very Long Lasting, and Easy to Use. Each category is accompanied by a recommended product and reasons for its selection.
5. Detailed Product Reviews
The reviews provide specific information about each recommended asphalt sealer, including features, benefits, potential drawbacks, and reasons to buy or not buy. This detailed analysis aids readers in making informed decisions based on their specific requirements.
6. Application Methods and Considerations
The article provides information on how to apply asphalt sealers, mentioning tools like rollers, brushes, and applicators. It also advises on the importance of surface preparation before application.
7. Types of Asphalt Sealers
A distinction is made between penetrating sealers and surface sealers. Penetrating sealers are described as seeping into pores, while surface sealers create a protective layer. The article also touches upon the choice between acrylic-based and epoxy sealers, discussing their respective features and best-use scenarios.
8. Factors Influencing Sealer Choice
The article suggests that the choice of an asphalt sealer should be influenced by factors such as climate (heat or snow), desired finish, and the specific area of application (e.g., residential driveway vs. industrial setting).
By considering these concepts, you can make an informed decision when selecting an asphalt sealer tailored to your unique needs and circ*mstances.
