The water-based acrylic coating can be used on paths, patios, natural stone and concrete, protecting the surfaces from rain, oil, sun and organic growth. It gives quite a glossy finish, especially when two or three coats are applied. However, if your patio is quite porous, you may find that with just one coat it’s still relatively matt. The Bond It Patio Paving Sealer is also relatively effective against the growth of mould and algae. Although it may not stop it from growing altogether, customers have reported noticing a dramatic decrease in the amount of mould present on their patio. The liquid has a low enough viscosity to apply with a paint/fence sprayer, which seems to produce better results compared to using a roller. Using a sprayer is also more economical in terms of product usage. At least two, if not three coats will be required, and it takes at least three hours before the next coat can be applied. PatioSeal creates a layer over the stones that makes them easier to clean, and it can help repel dirt, water, and oil. If you like to have BBQs on your patio during summer, but hate the messy grease stains that they leave behind, the surface should get much fewer stains after applying this sealer.

During application, the acrylic-based sealer shouldn’t be allowed to pool, as this can lead to white spots and marks remaining visible once it dries. If spraying on an uneven surface, it can be more difficult to ensure no puddles form, and a brush may be required as well as a sprayer. Depending on the finished ‘look’ that you want for your patio, you will need to choose between a gloss or matt sealer. Application can be done with a paintbrush or roller, and it spreads on easily. As with the majority of these products, if the sealer is allowed to pool during application, it will leave white marks when it rains – so beware! Solvent sealers with acrylic are a slightly cheaper option, although they still penetrate well into the paving. They are not quite as long lasting as solvent sealers with polyurethane. You’ll also need to decide whether you want a water-based or solvent-based sealer. If it’s your first time applying sealant, a water-based sealer may be best . They’re relatively inexpensive and easy to clean up if spilled. They also don’t have a strong chemical smell like solvent-based sealants.Do you want to create a matt or gloss finish on your patio? Choose a gloss sealer if you want to create a ‘wet look’, glossy patio. A lot of gardeners like how this looks as it gives the patio a richer, darker appearance. Leave to dry thoroughly for at least a week before continuing, you want any sand in the joints to be dry before you continue.

Whereas the majority of sealers leave a mid to high-gloss finish, the Pro-Kleen PatioSeal barely alters the appearance of the stones. This makes it one of the best patio sealers on the market if you want to achieve a matt look on your patio. Sand the joints – brush jointing sand into all of the joints – don’t rush this job and take care to apply sand evenly As a solvent-free, acrylic based formula, the sealer has a limited odour and is relatively easy to apply. It can be used over many different patio surfaces including sandstone, limestone and concrete. On most surfaces, it dries to a clear and subtle matt sheen finish with limited gloss.If you want to avoid a gloss finish, the Pro-Kleen PatioSeal dries matt, leaving almost no trace on the paving at all. The more coats of gloss sealer that are applied, the glossier it will be. Most products recommend using two to three coats of sealer. One coat may not be enough to create a durable seal.

Once dried, the Sika Patio Seal is very resistant to water, and it brings out the colour of slabs with its slightly glossy finish. The sealer is sufficiently high-gloss to shimmer in the sunlight, which may or may not be desirable depending on personal preference.

My Top Recommended Patio Sealers

The 3.785 L (1 gallon) bottle contains enough sealer to do a couple of coats on the majority of small/medium patios, but a larger amount may be required for bigger areas. May not create as long lasting a seal as solvent-based sealers and reapplication may be required more frequently

Choose dry time of year. As mentioned, you need a dry spell (preferably of at least a week) when applying patio sealer to make sure you get the best results. P102 Keep out of reach of children.P101 If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand.P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.P273 Avoid release to the environment.P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/ spray.P301 + P310 IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call a POISON CENTRE/doctor/…P331 Do NOT induce vomiting.P501 Dispose of contents/container to … Can be more suitable for indoor use, or just more pleasant to apply in general, as there’s less smell After final coat, make sure patio will be protected from rain for several hours. Ideally leave 24 hours of no rain and no traffic on the surface to ensure a full cure. It can be used in bathrooms and kitchens with stone or slate floors, as well as on concrete, slate, patios and other porous surfaces. The finished effect looks as though the stone is damp, which brings out richer tones and colours.Clean Up:Remove as much product as possible from application equipment before cleaning. Clean brushes, rollers and other equipment immediately after use with white spirit or brush cleaner. Some local authorities have special facilities for the disposal of waste coatings. Do not empty product into drains or watercourses. It comes as 2 x 5 L bottles, which, according to the manufacturer, is sufficient to cover 100 m ² (each bottle covers 50 m²). However, in reality it is unlikely to achieve such expansive coverage.