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Brick pavers take a beating — rain, mud, UV rays, and de-icing salts all work to fade the color and loosen the joints between them. The right sealer locks in the original color, beads water to prevent slips, and stops weeds from rooting in the sand lines. But choose wrong and you end up with a cloudy finish, a sticky mess, or a coating that peels in the first winter.
I’m Min — the founder and writer behind Gadgets Feed. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
You want a brick paver sealer that protects your driveway, patio, walkway, or pool deck without decoding confusing labels. These seven picks cover three types: solvent-based wet look formulas, penetrating silane/siloxane protectors (a water-repellent chemical that soaks into the brick), and water-based acrylic finishes (a plastic coating that dries clear).
Quick Picks
- Armor AR350 Low Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 1 Gallon — Best Overall
- Concrete Sealer – 9500 Ready to Use, 1 Gallon (BEEST) — Top Performer
- McKinnon Concrete and Paver Sealer 1 Gallon — Best Value
- DOMINATOR LG+ Clear Acrylic Sealer | Low Gloss Paver Sealer — Fast Dry Pick
- Cryli-Tek 5505 Solvent Based Acrylic High Gloss Wet Look Sealer — Premium Pick
- Armor AR500 High Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 5 Gallon — Large Project Pick
- MasonryDefender Patio Paver Sealer – Low Gloss, Water-Based – 2.5 Gallon — Joint Sealing Specialist
How To Choose The Best Brick Paver Sealer
Picking a sealer means matching the look you want with the protection your surface needs. Start by choosing your preferred finish.
Finish Type: Wet Look vs. Natural vs. Semi-Gloss
A solvent-based acrylic sealer, like the Armor AR350 or AR500, gives you a “wet look” — it darkens the surface significantly and leaves a visible film that can be low-gloss or high-gloss. A penetrating silane/siloxane formula like the Concrete Sealer 9500 soaks into the material and changes almost nothing about the surface appearance; it just makes the water bead up. A water-based acrylic, like the MasonryDefender or the DOMINATOR LG+, sits in the middle with a subtle sheen and low odor.
If the joints between your pavers are filled with polymeric sand, you need a sealer that locks that sand in place. Several water-based acrylics do this well. For driveways that see vehicle traffic, a solvent-based acrylic offers the hardest wear surface, but it also produces strong fumes (VOCs) that require a respirator and plenty of ventilation.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Best For | Finish | Coverage Per Gallon | Material Type | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armor AR350 Low Gloss | Dramatic color enhancement with a low-gloss sheen | Low-Gloss Wet Look | 175-225 sq ft | Solvent-Based Acrylic | $64.95Amazon |
| Beest CS-9500 | Invisible protection against water, salt, and freeze-thaw | Natural (No Change) | 150-400 sq ft | Silane/Siloxane | $42.45$52.95Amazon |
| DOMINATOR LG+ | Brick pavers needing a fast-dry, water-based low gloss | Low-Gloss Wet Look | 250-400 sq ft | Water-Based Acrylic | $79.00Amazon |
| Cryli-Tek 5505 | High-gloss, high-durability wet look that lasts | High-Gloss Wet Look | Not Specified | Solvent-Based Acrylic | $79.88Amazon |
| McKinnon Concrete and Paver Sealer | An affordable semi-gloss that goes a long way | Semi-Gloss Wet Look | Not Specified | Water-Based Penetrating | $38.99$59.99Amazon |
| Armor AR500 High Gloss (5 Gal) | Large projects needing a durable, high-gloss wet look | High-Gloss Wet Look | 175-225 sq ft | Solvent-Based Acrylic | $224.99Amazon |
| MasonryDefender Paver Sealer | Sealing joints and a low-gloss matte finish | Low-Gloss Matte | 75-150 sq ft | Water-Based Acrylic | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Armor AR350 Low Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 1 Gallon
The pro-grade wet look that brings drab pavers back to life without a mirror shine.
If you love the deep, rich color your brick pavers show when wet after rain, the Armor AR350 Low Gloss locks that look in permanently. It uses a solvent-based formula with acrylic resins (a type of plastic that forms a tough film) made in the US to create a dramatic color enhancement that buyers call “vibrant.” The finish settles as a low gloss, so you get the depth of a wet look without the slippery glare of a high-gloss coat. It covers 175-225 sq ft per gallon and can be applied with a roller or a sprayer. Reviewers report that an even application yields excellent results and that the finish looks perfect after a 48-hour cure.
The catch is the fumes. This is a high-VOC (700 VOC) solvent-based product. Multiple buyers stress that you absolutely need a respirator and plenty of airflow during application. The strong chemical odor fades after about an hour outdoors, but it is not a casual project. For driveways, pool decks, and patios where you want the color to pop and the surface to last for years against UV and road salts, this is your pick. Unlike the water-based DOMINATOR LG+, the AR350 delivers a true wet look but asks for more safety gear in return.
Low Gloss Wet Look
- Dramatic color enhancement from US-manufactured acrylic resins
- Low-gloss finish that looks like a wet surface, not a plastic film
- Self-priming and easy to recoat when it’s time to reseal
Smaller 1 Gallon Size
- Strong solvent odor requires a respirator and outdoor ventilation
- Coverage on the lower side (175-225 sq ft/gal)
Wet Look Finish: you want a professional low-gloss wet look for a driveway or pool deck and are prepared to use proper safety gear during application.
Small Quantity: you need an odorless, low-fume sealer for a tight space or a job near living areas.
2. Concrete Sealer – 9500 Ready to Use, 1 Gallon (BEEST)
The invisible shield that stops water and salt in their tracks without changing your paver’s color.
This is the sealer you pick when you do not want a glossy or even noticeable coating. The BEEST CS-9500 is an industrial-grade, water-based silane/siloxane formula that penetrates deep into the brick and concrete to repel moisture from the inside. It creates a hydrophobic water-beading effect, meaning rain rolls off instead of soaking in, which helps prevent cracking, spalling, and pitting from freeze-thaw cycles. It is D.O.T. approved for that exact reason. The formula leaves a completely natural finish — no darkening, no sheen, no film. One buyer confirmed the coverage is real: “Applied 4 thin coats on stamped concrete patio and walkway” and noted it beads water and has no odor. The sealer stayed in the pump sprayer for two weeks without clogging, which is a practical bonus for multi-day projects.
Its dimensions of 4 x 13 x 9.5 inches make the container noticeably taller and slimmer than the Armor AR350’s 9 x 9 x 12 inch can, a 2.2x gap in footprint that matters if your storage shelf space is tight. Whereas the Armor AR350 darkens the surface dramatically, the BEEST CS-9500 does the opposite — you will not see it at all. That is the trade-off: no color enhancement, but top-tier protection against deicing salts (road salt that can crack pavers) and water intrusion. The BEEST CS-9500 lasts up to 5 years on horizontal surfaces and up to 10 years on vertical surfaces when applied correctly.
Ready to Use
- D.O.T. approved for freeze-thaw and deicing salt protection
- 100% breathable and non-film forming — no slippery surface
- Low-VOC, no odor, and easy clean-up with water
Unknown Brand
- No color enhancement — the pavers look exactly the same as before
- Requires careful application to avoid ponding, which leaves marks
Ready to Use: homeowners in freeze-thaw climates who want invisible protection against salt and water damage.
Unfamiliar Brand: you want the “wet look” that makes your brick colors pop — you need an acrylic sealer instead.
3. McKinnon Concrete and Paver Sealer 1 Gallon
The affordable semi-gloss that stretches further than most budget sealers.
This is the entry-level pick that punches above its weight. The McKinnon sealer is a water-based, penetrating formula that delivers a semi-gloss wet look — it enhances color without leaving a heavy topical film. Buyers report that it is “easy, quick application, goes a long way, dries fast,” and that it locks polymeric sand in place after setting. At 9.28 pounds per gallon, it is 7% heavier than the DOMINATOR LG+ (8.7 pounds), which suggests a higher solids content that can mean better coverage per coat. It works indoors and outdoors thanks to its UV-resistant formulation that stands up to sun and rain.
The honest catch: it is not as glossy as the product photos suggest. Several reviewers point out that it is a “fine penetrating siloxane sealer” but delivers a medium gloss at best, not the high-shine wet look some expect. If you need a true mirror finish, the Cryli-Tek 5505 is a better fit. But if you want a solid, easy-to-apply sealer for a patio or driveway that saves you money without sacrificing basic protection, this one delivers. It is made by a family-owned company in Tampa, Florida, which gives it a small-business edge over the big industrial brands.
Concrete and Paver
- 9.28 pounds per gallon suggests high solids content for good coverage
- Water-based with no noxious fumes and easy soap-and-water cleanup
- UV resistant for both indoor and outdoor use
Generic Sealer
- Not as glossy as advertised — expect a medium, not high, gloss
- Untested long-term durability per early reviews (product launched Feb 2025)
Versatile Use: you want an affordable, easy-to-use sealer that goes a long way and has low odor.
Generic Option: a high-gloss, mirror-like wet look is non-negotiable for your project.
4. DOMINATOR LG+ Clear Acrylic Sealer | Low Gloss Paver Sealer
The water-based low-gloss that dries fast enough to make sealing a one-day job.
The DOMINATOR LG+ is a favorite among DIYers because it hits a balance: a water-based acrylic that is almost odorless, low-VOC (low volatile organic compounds, meaning fewer harmful fumes), and dries incredibly fast between coats. One reviewer noted the “great coverage rate: 250-400 square feet per gallon, per coat,” which is the highest range in this lineup. That means a single gallon can cover a 400 sq ft patio in one coat, saving you both money and time. It is designed specifically for concrete pavers and decorative concrete (not for natural stone or clay), and it delivers a subtle low-gloss wet look that enhances color without a heavy plastic sheen.
The flip side: application requires care. The product sprays on white and dries clear, but if you leave puddles or heavy spots, they can harden into white marks that only show when wet. Reviewers advise brushing off excess immediately. One buyer mentioned that after 20 years, the pavers looked much better, and water beads up after rain. The sealed surface should hold for 2-4 years before needing a recoat, depending on your environment. For a dramatic high-gloss finish, the Cryli-Tek 5505 blows past the LG+, but at 8.7 pounds the DOMINATOR is also 0.58 pounds lighter than the McKinnon, making it slightly easier to handle for overhead spraying.
Clear Acrylic Sealer
- top-tier coverage: 250-400 sq ft per gallon per coat
- Water-based with low odor and low VOCs — pleasant to work with
- Fast dry time between coats for a one-day project
Low Gloss Only
- White spots can appear if puddles dry without back-brushing
- Not intended for natural stone or clay brick
Clear Acrylic: large concrete paver patios where you want a fast, low-odor, one-day sealing job.
Low Gloss Only: you are sealing natural stone or want a high-gloss, solvent-based wet look.
5. Cryli-Tek 5505 Solvent Based Acrylic High Gloss Wet Look Sealer
The high-gloss champion that restores old brick to like-new condition and keeps it there.
If the visual of a deep, glossy wet look is what you are after, the Cryli-Tek 5505 is the strongest contender in this list. It is a solvent-based, high-solids acrylic that the maker says lasts up to 3x longer than standard formulas because it uses self-cross-linking, UV-stable resins. That is not a marketing claim you can prove with a spec sheet, but the real-world results are hard to argue with: one reviewer used it to restore a 20-year-old brick patio to like-new condition. Another called it “absolutely incredible stuff” for enhancing river rock colors in one clear, durable coat. It requires no primer and bonds tenaciously to concrete, brick, paver, and natural stone surfaces, including those previously sealed with solvent or water-based acrylics.
The biggest drawback is the fumes. This is a solvent-based product with a strong toxic smell that requires a mask and excellent ventilation — one reviewer called it “effective but strong stuff, try not to breathe in.” It also did not cover as much area as expected per gallon (no specific coverage number is provided in the specs), so budget for two gallons if you are doing a medium-sized patio. Compared to the Armor AR500, the Cryli-Tek has a reputation for even deeper gloss and longer durability on stone, but it shares the same requirement for safety gear. It is a premium tool for a premium finish, not a weekend casual job.
High Gloss Wet Look
- Self-cross-linking, UV-stable resins for a resilient, non-yellowing finish
- Requires no primer; bonds to concrete, brick, paver, and natural stone
- Deep high-gloss wet look that restores old surfaces to like-new condition
Solvent Based
- Strong toxic fumes require a respirator and open airflow at all times
- Coverage per gallon is not specified — may need more than expected
High Gloss: you want the deepest, longest-lasting high-gloss wet look on brick or stone and you are comfortable with solvent safety precautions.
Solvent Based: low odor and easy cleanup are dealbreakers — consider a water-based acrylic instead.
6. Armor AR500 High Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 5 Gallon
The big-batch high gloss that gives a professional finish to whole driveways at once.
Think of the Armor AR500 as the big brother to the AR350. It uses the same US-manufactured acrylic resin technology but delivers a high-gloss wet look instead of low-gloss. At 5 gallons, it is the volume play for large patios, pool decks, and driveways where buying single gallons would cost more per square foot. It covers 175-225 sq ft per gallon, so a 5-gallon pail handles roughly 875 to 1,125 sq ft. Reviewers love the “stunning high-gloss wet-look finish” on pool pavers. One buyer applied it to 15-year-old stamped concrete that had a failed cheap sealer, and the result was a beautiful glossy wet look with vibrant colors. The important advice from experienced users: clean thoroughly, degrease, let it dry for 24 hours, and apply in the late afternoon with two thin coats.
The AR500 weighs 42 pounds, so you are not carrying this around casually. It also has the same high-VOC (700 VOC) solvent fumes as the AR350, meaning a respirator is mandatory. Unlike the DOMINATOR LG+, which is water-based and odor-free, this is a serious chemical tool for serious projects. If you only need a gallon for a small walkway, the AR350 makes more sense. But if you are covering a big surface and want the most durable, reflective wet look possible, the AR500 in bulk is the economical and effective route.
5 Gallon Bulk
- 5 gallons for large-area coverage — economical for big driveways and pool decks
- High-gloss wet look from US-manufactured acrylic resins
- Self-priming, UV-resistant, and protects against road salts and vehicle traffic
High Gloss Only
- 42 lbs is heavy — plan for transport and handling
- Strong solvent fumes require a respirator and careful ventilation
Bulk Purchase: large driveways and patios where you want a durable, high-gloss, professional-grade finish and are comfortable buying in bulk.
High Gloss Only: you are sealing a small space or need a low-odor, water-based formula.
7. MasonryDefender Patio Paver Sealer – Low Gloss, Water-Based – 2.5 Gallon
The matte-finish sealer that locks sand in place and keeps weeds out of paver joints.
This entry stands apart because it is purpose-built for paver joints. The MasonryDefender is a water-based acrylic that goes on milky white and dries completely clear to a low-gloss matte finish. Its primary job is to harden and stabilize the joint sand between pavers, which prevents weed growth and stops ants from colonizing. One long-time buyer puts it simply: “I use this every other year to seal a slate sidewalk and the polymerized sand I use around the slate slabs. It seals everything together so there is no movement of slate or sand.” It is ideal for clay brick, cement paver stones, and natural stone on horizontal, above-grade surfaces. The low odor and soap-and-water cleanup make it among the most pleasant sealers to work with in this list.
The trade-off is coverage. At 75-150 sq ft per gallon, the MasonryDefender covers roughly half the area per gallon that the DOMINATOR LG+ does. That means a 2.5-gallon jug covers at most 375 sq ft, which is tight for a medium patio. Some owners mention it sits “on the high side” for price per square foot. But if your main goal is to lock the sand lines and prevent joint erosion — not to create a glossy shine — this is the most effective option here. The matte appearance is also a feature, not a bug: reviewers praise it for delivering a “beautiful matte finish” that is not slippery.
Water Based Low Gloss
- Designed to harden joint sand and prevent weed growth and ant colonization
- Low odor, water-based, easy cleanup with soap and water
- Subtle matte finish with no slippery surface
Patio Specific
- Coverage is low: only 75-150 sq ft per gallon
- Price per square foot is higher than most other options
Water Based: your priority is locking joint sand on a brick walkway or slate patio and you prefer a matte finish over a wet look.
Patio Only: you need maximum coverage per gallon or a glossy wet look for a driveway.
Understanding the Specs
Solvent-Based vs. Water-Based
Solvent-based acrylic sealers (like the Armor AR350 and Cryli-Tek 5505) use chemical solvents that give a deeper, more dramatic wet look and a harder, more durable finish. They resist vehicle traffic, road salts, and UV better, but they release high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — you need a respirator and open air. Water-based acrylics (like the DOMINATOR LG+ and MasonryDefender) have low odor, low VOCs, and clean up with soap and water. They dry faster and are safer to use around plants and living spaces, but they generally offer a less intense gloss and slightly less durable wear.
Penetrating vs. Film-Forming
A penetrating sealer (like the BEEST CS-9500 silane/siloxane) soaks into the paver and reacts chemically to repel water from the inside. It leaves no surface film, so the paver’s texture and appearance stay exactly the same. It is breathable, so trapped moisture can escape, which prevents freeze-thaw damage. A film-forming sealer (every acrylic on this list) sits on top of the paver as a clear coating. It gives you the wet look color enhancement and a physical barrier against oil stains and abrasion, but it can wear off over time and may require stripping before reapplication.
Coverage Rate
Coverage is listed in square feet per gallon per coat. The DOMINATOR LG+ leads at 250-400 sq ft/gal, meaning you can stretch a gallon further. The MasonryDefender is at the other end at 75-150 sq ft/gal, which means a 2.5-gallon jug covers roughly the same area as 1 gallon of the DOMINATOR. Lower coverage often correlates with higher solids content or a thicker film, which can mean better protection per coat. The Armor AR350 and AR500 sit in the middle at 175-225 sq ft/gal. Always calculate your total square footage before buying — and remember that porous surfaces and two-coat applications eat up more product.
Gloss Level
Gloss levels describe how much light the sealed surface reflects. High-gloss sealers (Cryli-Tek 5505, Armor AR500) create a shiny, almost wet-mirror look that makes colors pop dramatically. Low-gloss or semi-gloss sealers (Armor AR350, DOMINATOR LG+, McKinnon) give a subtle sheen that avoids a plastic appearance. Matte or natural finishes (BEEST CS-9500, MasonryDefender) add no shine at all — they protect invisibly or add just a whisper of flat clarity. The choice is purely visual: high-gloss shows dirt and wear more easily, while matte hides imperfections but may not feel as “sealed” to the eye.
FAQ
Can I use a brick paver sealer on natural stone like slate or flagstone?
How long does a brick paver sealer last before I need to reapply?
Will a sealer make my brick pavers slippery when wet?
Do I need to clean my pavers before applying sealer?
Can I apply a brick paver sealer with a pump sprayer?
What is the difference between a wet look sealer and a natural finish sealer?
Will a sealer prevent weeds from growing between my pavers?
Can I apply a second coat of sealer the same day?
What temperature should it be when I apply the sealer?
Can I use a brick paver sealer on an old driveway that was sealed before?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most people, the brick paver sealer winner is the Armor AR350 Low Gloss because it delivers the most satisfying balance of dramatic color enhancement, durable protection, and a low-gloss finish that does not look overcoated. If you want invisible protection against salt and freeze-thaw with no change in appearance, grab the BEEST CS-9500. And for a fast, low-odor, one-day project that locks paver joints and gives a subtle sheen, the standout is the DOMINATOR LG+.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement, and we did not hands-on test every unit. Instead, we match each pick to a real buyer and use-case by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications against the patterns in verified customer reviews — so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing copy.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
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