7 best solvent based paver sealer tested for 2025

I remember the first time I tackled sealing my own patio pavers. I’d spent hours cleaning them, and they looked fantastic… but I knew without the right protection, that fresh look wouldn’t last. That’s when I dove deep into researching the best solvent based paver sealer options, and let me tell you, the difference it makes is night and day. A great solvent-based sealer doesn’t just make your pavers pop with vibrant color; it also provides a robust, long-lasting shield against the elements. If you’re looking to enhance and protect your outdoor surfaces for years to come, you’re in the right place. I’ve put together a comprehensive guide based on hands-on insights and careful review of seven top-tier choices to help you find the perfect fit for your project.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Armor AR350 Low Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 5 Gallon…	View on Amazon
	Armor AR350 Low Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 1 Gallon…	View on Amazon
	Armor AR500 High Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 5 Gallon…	View on Amazon
	Cryli-Tek 5505-5 Gallons Solvent Based Acrylic High Gloss…	View on Amazon
	Armor SX5000 Solvent-Based Silane-Siloxane Sealer for…	View on Amazon
	Cryli-Tek 5505-1 Gallon Solvent Based Acrylic High Gloss…	View on Amazon
	Armor AR500 High Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 1 Gallon…	View on Amazon

Product Reviews

Armor AR350 Low Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 5 Gallon

This professional-grade solvent-based sealer is a fantastic choice if you’re aiming for that rich, darkened “wet look” without an overpowering shine. It deeply enhances the natural colors of your concrete and pavers, making them look vibrant and refreshed, just like after a good rain. Beyond aesthetics, it provides a tough, non-yellowing, low gloss finish that stands up to heavy traffic, road salts, UV rays, and general wear and tear, ensuring your surfaces stay protected for years.

Key features that stand out:
– Professional Grade Protection: Designed for commercial and residential durability.
– Dramatic Color Enhancement: Brings out the natural beauty with a low-gloss wet look.
– Long Lasting & Non-Yellowing: Ensures a durable finish that resists UV damage.
– Easy to Maintain: Self-priming and simple to reapply when needed.
– VOC Compliant Options: Available in multiple formulations for all 50 states.

Pros:
– Delivers a beautiful low gloss wet look
– Excellent protection against various elements
– Easy application and maintenance
– Versatile for many exterior concrete and paver types
– Large 5-gallon size is great for bigger projects

Cons:
– May require two coats for maximum effect on porous surfaces.

Best for: Larger driveways, patios, or commercial spaces where a subtle, natural wet look and robust protection are desired.

Expert Opinion: This is a solid all-rounder for those who want significant color enhancement and protection without too much shine. The 5-gallon option makes it cost-effective for larger areas.

Armor AR350 Low Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 1 Gallon

Just like its 5-gallon counterpart, this 1-gallon version of the Armor AR350 offers the same professional-grade quality and stunning low gloss wet look. It’s perfect for smaller projects or for those who want to test the product before committing to a larger quantity. This sealer excels at darkening and enhancing the natural colors of your pavers and concrete, while providing a durable, long-lasting, and non-yellowing finish that protects against surface abrasion, traffic, and environmental damage.

Key features that stand out:
– Professional Grade Protection: Ensures durability for both residential and commercial use.
– Dramatic Color Enhancement: Delivers a low-gloss wet look, intensifying surface colors.
– Long Lasting & Non-Yellowing: Formulated for years of protection against harsh elements.
– Ready-to-Use & Easy Maintenance: Simple application with roller or sprayer; self-priming for resealing.
– Versatile Application: Suitable for a wide range of exterior concrete and paver surfaces.

Pros:
– Provides a beautiful low gloss wet look
– Strong protective qualities
– Simple to apply and maintain
– Ideal for smaller areas or touch-ups
– VOC compliant options available

Cons:
– Higher per-gallon cost compared to the 5-gallon size.

Best for: Small patios, walkways, pool deck sections, or as a trial for bigger projects.

Expert Opinion: If you’re tackling a smaller area or prefer to buy what you need without much leftover, this 1-gallon size of the AR350 is an excellent, convenient option with all the benefits of the larger container.

Armor AR500 High Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 5 Gallon

For those who love a truly vibrant, reflective surface, the Armor AR500 High Gloss sealer delivers. This professional-grade solvent-based sealer provides a dramatic wet look with a brilliant high-gloss finish, significantly deepening and enriching the color of your concrete and pavers. Like the AR350, it uses high-quality US-manufactured resins to create a durable, non-yellowing shield that protects against surface abrasion, vehicle traffic, road salts, and UV rays, ensuring a stunning and protected surface for years.

Key features that stand out:
– Professional Grade Quality: High-performance sealer for maximum enhancement and protection.
– Dramatic High Gloss Finish: Creates an intense wet look that magnifies color.
– Long Lasting Protection: Offers durable defense against traffic, salts, and UV without yellowing.
– Ready to Use & Easy Maintenance: Simple roller or sprayer application; self-priming for easy resealing.
– Versatile Use Cases: Applicable to diverse exterior concrete and paver types.

Pros:
– Achieves a striking, deep high gloss wet look
– Provides excellent, long-lasting protection
– Easy to apply and reapply
– Large quantity suitable for extensive areas
– VOC compliant formulations available

Cons:
– High gloss may be too reflective for some tastes.

Best for: Large driveways, stamped concrete, or any extensive outdoor area where a bold, mirror-like wet look and superior protection are desired.

Expert Opinion: If you want your pavers to truly pop with a high-shine, vibrant finish, this 5-gallon AR500 is your go-to. It’s tough and will keep your surfaces looking great for a long time.

Cryli-Tek 5505-5 Gallons Solvent Based Acrylic High Gloss

The Cryli-Tek 5505 is a powerhouse, professional-grade, high-solids acrylic sealer that sets itself apart with its incredibly resilient and long-lasting high gloss wet-look finish. This product isn’t just about making your pavers look good; it’s engineered for maximum durability, using advanced UV stable resins that resist yellowing and cross-link to provide a significantly longer service life. It dramatically darkens and enhances the natural colors of concrete, brick, pavers, and natural stone, creating a rich, vibrant appearance that outlasts many rivals.

Key features that stand out:
– Professional Grade, High-Solids Formula: Delivers exceptional durability and performance.
– Extreme High Gloss Wet-Look: Intensely darkens and enhances natural colors.
– 3x Longer Lasting: Utilizes advanced, UV-stable, self-cross-linking resins for extended life.
– No Primer Needed: Forms a tenacious bond even over previously sealed surfaces (water or solvent-based acrylic).
– Toughest in the Industry: Outperforms competitors in longevity and protective qualities.

Pros:
– Unmatched durability and longevity
– Creates a truly brilliant, deep high gloss wet look
– Protects against cracking, spalling, pitting, and staining
– Excellent adhesion to various surfaces
– Easy to clean and maintain

Cons:
– The intense high gloss might not be preferred for all aesthetic preferences.

Best for: Projects demanding the absolute toughest, longest-lasting high gloss wet look, especially on concrete, brick, pavers, or natural stone that see heavy use.

Expert Opinion: When “tough” and “long-lasting” are at the top of your list for a high gloss finish, Cryli-Tek 5505 truly shines. Its advanced resin technology makes it a top contender for the best solvent based paver sealer in the high-gloss category.

Armor SX5000 Solvent-Based Silane-Siloxane Sealer for

Unlike the wet-look acrylic sealers, the Armor SX5000 is a professional-grade solvent-based silane-siloxane sealer designed for invisible, deep penetration protection. This means it creates a powerful water-repellent barrier below the surface, reducing water absorption by up to 95%, without altering the look, color, or feel of your pavers, brick, or natural stone. It’s perfect if you love the natural appearance of your surfaces but need robust protection against cracking, spalling, ice, salt, and organic growth, lasting for 7-10 years.

Key features that stand out:
– Invisible Penetrating Protection: Won’t change the look, color, or feel of the surface.
– Superior Water Repellency: Reduces water absorption by up to 95%.
– Long-Lasting Performance: Provides protection for 7-10 years.
– Ready to Use: Easy application with a solvent-resistant pump sprayer.
– Versatile Use: Ideal for concrete, brick, pavers, bluestone, flagstone, slate, natural stone, and masonry.

Pros:
– Preserves the natural aesthetic of your pavers
– Exceptional long-term water and moisture protection
– Resists cracking, spalling, salt damage, and organic growth
– Low maintenance as there’s no film to reapply
– Effective on a wide array of porous materials

Cons:
– Does not offer color enhancement or a wet look.

Best for: Homeowners and professionals who want to protect their pavers and masonry from water damage and deterioration while keeping their original, natural appearance completely unchanged.

Expert Opinion: If an invisible, long-lasting protective barrier is your priority over aesthetic enhancement, the Armor SX5000 is arguably the best solvent based paver sealer for deep, penetrating water repellency.

Cryli-Tek 5505-1 Gallon Solvent Based Acrylic High Gloss

Bringing all the powerful features of the 5-gallon drum, the Cryli-Tek 5505-1 Gallon option provides the same professional-grade, high-solids, high gloss wet-look acrylic sealer in a more convenient size. It’s ideal for smaller projects, repairs, or if you need to tackle different sections of your property at different times. This sealer delivers an extremely resilient finish, intensely darkening and enhancing the natural colors of your surfaces, while its advanced UV stable resins ensure it lasts up to three times longer than many alternatives, providing exceptional protection against damage and making maintenance a breeze.

Key features that stand out:
– Professional Grade, High-Solids Formula: Unmatched durability and robust performance in a compact size.
– Extreme High Gloss Wet-Look: Deepens and enriches natural surface colors dramatically.
– Extended Service Life: Advanced UV-stable, self-cross-linking resins ensure long-term protection.
– Excellent Adhesion: No primer needed, binds to various concrete and previously sealed surfaces.
– Industry Leading Toughness: Outperforms competitors in protecting against cracking, spalling, and staining.

Pros:
– Offers outstanding durability and longevity for smaller areas
– Creates a brilliant, deep high gloss wet look
– Strong protection against surface damage
– Easy to clean and maintain
– Convenient size for smaller tasks

Cons:
– The 1-gallon size is not as cost-effective for larger projects.

Best for: Small paver sections, decorative concrete features, or brick walls where maximum high gloss wet-look enhancement and superior protection are desired on a smaller scale.

Expert Opinion: This 1-gallon Cryli-Tek 5505 is perfect for giving small, high-impact areas that ultimate high-gloss, long-lasting finish without overbuying. It’s a concentrated dose of top-tier protection.

Armor AR500 High Gloss Wet Look Concrete Sealer 1 Gallon

If you’re looking to achieve a stunning, high-gloss wet look on a smaller paver or concrete area, the Armor AR500 1-gallon sealer is an excellent choice. This professional-grade, solvent-based acrylic sealer brings out a dramatic color enhancement, making your surfaces look vibrant and deeply enriched, as if they’re perpetually wet. It provides a durable, non-yellowing, high-gloss finish that protects against the common foes of outdoor surfaces: traffic, road salts, UV rays, and moisture absorption, ensuring your investment stays beautiful and protected for years.

Key features that stand out:
– Professional Grade & High Gloss: Delivers a vibrant, reflective wet look and strong protection.
– Dramatic Color Enhancement: Deepens and intensifies the natural colors of your surfaces.
– Long Lasting & Non-Yellowing: Provides a durable finish resistant to UV and wear.
– Ready to Use & Easy Maintenance: Simple roller or sprayer application; self-priming for resealing.
– Versatile for Small Projects: Ideal for various exterior concrete and paver applications.

Pros:
– Creates a striking high gloss wet look
– Offers robust, long-lasting protection
– Easy to apply and maintain
– Perfect for smaller areas or touch-ups
– VOC compliant options available

Cons:
– Better value per gallon is found in the 5-gallon size.

Best for: Enhancing and protecting smaller concrete or paver surfaces like entryways, small patios, or repairs where a bold, high-gloss wet look is desired.

Expert Opinion: For a brilliant, high-gloss effect on a modest area, this 1-gallon AR500 is a fantastic option. It’s easy to work with and provides all the protective benefits of the larger container.

Helpful Comparison Short Insights

When choosing the best solvent based paver sealer, it really boils down to the finish you want and the type of protection you need. For starters, you’ll notice a clear split between wet look sealers and invisible penetrating sealers. The Armor AR350 and AR500 lines, along with the Cryli-Tek 5505, all fall into the wet-look category, significantly darkening and enhancing your pavers’ colors. The Armor AR350 provides a beautiful, subtle low gloss wet look, perfect if you prefer a more natural, damp appearance. In contrast, the Armor AR500 and Cryli-Tek 5505 offer a much more pronounced high gloss wet look, creating a deep, reflective shine that truly makes colors pop.

For those who want to preserve the original, unaltered appearance of their pavers, the Armor SX5000 is the standout choice. This unique silane-siloxane formula works entirely below the surface, creating a powerful, invisible water repellent barrier without changing the look or feel. It’s all about protection without aesthetic alteration.

Another key difference is longevity and durability. While all these sealers offer professional-grade protection, the Cryli-Tek 5505 boasts advanced, self-cross-linking resins designed to last up to 3x longer than many rivals, making it exceptionally resilient. The Armor AR series also provides excellent long-lasting protection, typically for years, while the penetrating Armor SX5000 can offer protection for 7-10 years below the surface.

Finally, consider the project size. The 5-gallon containers from Armor and Cryli-Tek offer better value per gallon and are ideal for extensive areas like driveways or large patios. For smaller jobs, touch-ups, or if you’re experimenting with a new product, the 1-gallon options are far more practical and convenient. Always remember to check the VOC compliance for your specific state, as some sealers offer different formulations to meet local regulations.

Final Verdict

Deciding on the best solvent based paver sealer for your project really comes down to your priorities.

If you’re after a stunning, vibrant high gloss wet look that will truly make your pavers sing, and you demand extreme durability, the Cryli-Tek 5505 (available in 1 or 5 gallons) is our top recommendation. Its advanced formulation promises exceptional longevity and protection, making it a stellar long-term investment.

For a similar high gloss wet look with excellent protection but perhaps not the absolute top-tier longevity of Cryli-Tek, the Armor AR500 (1 or 5 gallons) is a fantastic, reliable choice that won’t disappoint.

If a more subtle, natural low gloss wet look is what you’re after – that beautiful “just rained” appearance without a heavy shine – then the Armor AR350 (1 or 5 gallons) hits the sweet spot perfectly, offering great enhancement and protection.

Lastly, if your primary goal is to protect your pavers from water damage and deterioration without changing their natural look or feel at all, the Armor SX5000 is the clear winner. It’s an invisible shield, working deep within the material for years of worry-free defense.

Ultimately, all these options are professional-grade and will provide significant benefits. Choose based on the aesthetic you desire and the level of invisible protection you need.

FAQ Section

Q1: What exactly is a solvent-based paver sealer, and why should I choose it over water-based?
A1: A solvent-based paver sealer uses a chemical solvent as its carrier for the sealing resins, rather than water. This often allows for deeper penetration into the paver’s surface, leading to a more durable bond and typically a richer, more pronounced “wet look” enhancement. They’re generally more resistant to chemicals, oils, and hot tire pickup, making them a popular choice for high-traffic areas like driveways.

Q2: How long does the best solvent based paver sealer typically last?
A2: The lifespan of a solvent-based paver sealer varies depending on the specific product, traffic, weather conditions, and initial surface preparation. Acrylic wet-look sealers like the Armor AR series or Cryli-Tek 5505 can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years, with Cryli-Tek claiming up to 3x longer. Penetrating silane-siloxane sealers like Armor SX5000 can last even longer, often 7-10 years, as they work below the surface.

Q3: Can I apply a solvent-based paver sealer over an existing sealer?
A3: It depends on the existing sealer. Generally, you can apply a new solvent-based acrylic sealer over an old solvent-based acrylic sealer, and some products like Cryli-Tek 5505 even adhere to previously sealed water-based acrylics. However, you should never apply an acrylic sealer over a penetrating sealer (like silane-siloxane) or vice versa, as they have different mechanisms. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first and ensure the old sealer is clean and fully intact.

Q4: What’s the difference between a low gloss and a high gloss wet look finish for a solvent based paver sealer?
A4: Both low gloss and high gloss wet look finishes enhance the color of your pavers, making them appear richer and darker, as if wet. A low gloss finish provides a subtle sheen, a more natural and muted wet appearance. A high gloss finish, on the other hand, creates a much shinier, more reflective surface, making the colors truly pop and offering a more dramatic aesthetic. Your choice depends on personal preference and the look you want to achieve.

Q5: How do I prepare my pavers before applying the best solvent based paver sealer?
A5: Proper preparation is crucial for the best solvent based paver sealer results. First, thoroughly clean your pavers to remove all dirt, efflorescence, oil stains, and organic growth (algae, moss). A pressure washer combined with a good paver cleaner is often recommended. Ensure the pavers are completely dry before sealing; moisture can trap within and cause haziness or peeling. You might need to wait 24-48 hours after cleaning, depending on humidity and temperature.

Q6: Are there any specific safety precautions I should take when using solvent-based paver sealer?
A6: Absolutely. Solvent-based sealers emit strong fumes, so always work in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including a respirator (designed for organic vapors), safety glasses, and chemical-resistant gloves. Keep skin exposure to a minimum and ensure no open flames or ignition sources are nearby. Read the product’s safety data sheet (SDS) and follow all manufacturer instructions carefully.

Q7: What does “VOC compliant” mean in the context of the best solvent based paver sealer?
A7: VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds. VOC compliant means the product meets specific regulations regarding the amount of VOCs it releases into the air. Different states and regions have varying VOC limits. Manufacturers like Armor often offer multiple formulations (e.g., 700 VOC, 350 VOC, 50 VOC) to ensure their products can be legally sold and used in all 50 states while adhering to local environmental standards. Always check which VOC formulation is appropriate for your area before purchasing.