A penetrating sealer is a sealer that penetrates into the concrete to protect the concrete from below the surface. Penetrating sealers do not leave behind a surface film or coating. When concrete is sealed with a penetrating sealer, it will look exactly as it did before being sealed.
There are three main types of penetrating concrete sealers: silane-siloxane sealers, silicate sealers, and siliconate sealers.
Silane-Siloxane sealers, also known as water repellent sealers, are the most popular type of penetrating concrete sealer. They chemically react below the surface to form a hydrophobic barrier below the surface that reduced the absorption of water and other liquids. Foundation Armor manufactures two types of silane-siloxane sealers, the Armor SX5000 WB which is water-based, and the Armor SX5000 which is solvent based. Silane-Siloxane sealers are also great for sealing pavers, brick, and natural stone.
Silicate sealers, also known as concrete densifiers, chemically react below the surface to form a calcium silicate hydrate barrier within the pores, helping to increase the strength and density of the concrete by up to 45%. Foundation Armor manufactures two types of silicate sealers, the Armor S2000 which is a sodium silicate sealer, and the Armor L3000 which is a lithium silicate.
Siliconate sealers are designed specifically for white, or very light concrete surfaces. They chemically react to form a hydrophobic barrier within the pores, and help to maintain the white appearance of the concrete.