The three most common types of water repellent sealers derived from silicone are silane sealers, siloxane sealers, and silane-siloxane hybrid sealers.
- Silane Sealers: Silane sealers have a very small molecule size, allowing them to penetrate deep into the surface of the concrete or masonry. The small molecule size is both a strength and weakness. The small molecule size makes silane sealers more resistant to abrasion and weathering, but more material needs to be applied at a higher level of solids because they are known to evaporate quickly during application.
- Siloxane Sealers: Siloxane sealers have a very large molecule size, forcing them to remain in the surface pores. While siloxane sealers do a better job at sealing porous concrete and masonry, they break down faster from surface abrasion and weathering.
- Silane Siloxane Hybrid Sealers: Silane Siloxane hybrid sealers take the benefits of each type of sealer without any of the weaknesses. They work both above and below the surface to provide years of protection.
| Silane Sealer | Siloxane Sealer | Silane Siloxane Sealer |
| Small molecule | Large molecule | Small and large molecules |
| Penetrates deep | Stays in surface pores | Penetrates deep and stays on the surface |
| Sensitive to application | Easy application | Easy application |
| Breaks down easily | Breaks down easily | Resistant to surface abrasion and whethering |
Silane Siloxane sealers are the best type of water repellent to apply. They are considered to be a “super sealer” when it comes to protecting concrete and masonry from deterioration caused by water absorption.
Silane Siloxane Sealer Benefits
- Silane Siloxane sealers reduce cracking, spalling, pitting, and staining caused by the absorption of water, snow, and ice on the surface.
- Silane Siloxane sealers reduce the formation of mold, mildew, and efflorescence.
- Silane Siloxane sealers are resistant to UV rays.
- Silane Siloxane sealers are breathable sealers.
- Silane Siloxane sealers won’t leave behind a slippery surface film.
- Silane Siloxane sealers are long lasting sealers.
Best Silane Siloxane Sealers
The Armor SX5000 (solvent based) and Armor SX5000 WB are professional-grade Silane-Siloxane sealers. They are approved by the Department of Transportation as a water repellent sealer, and are used to seal everything from driveways to bridge decks. When properly applied, these Silane Siloxane sealers can last for up to 7-10 years before the need to reseal.
Silane Siloxane sealers can be applied to a variety of surfaces including concrete, brick, pavers, unsealed tile, granite, slate, flagstone, and natural stone. They won’t change the look or color of the surface, and they will protect the surface by reducing water absorption.
