AcquaSeal™ Water Based Acrylic Concrete Sealer

AcquaSeal™ is a professional-grade, water-based acrylic concrete sealer engineered to protect interior and exterior concrete surfaces from water penetration, stains, UV damage, abrasion, and daily wear — in a low-VOC, low-odor formulation that's safe for indoor use, occupied spaces, and projects where solvent-based products aren't an option.

AcquaSeal™ forms a durable acrylic film on the concrete surface that enhances the color and character of stained, stamped, or plain concrete while protecting it from the elements. The water-based formulation means no harsh solvent fumes, no ventilation concerns for indoor application, and no VOC compliance issues for commercial projects with environmental restrictions. You can apply AcquaSeal™ in an occupied home, a working restaurant, or a commercial building without evacuating the space — something that's not possible with solvent-based sealers.

What AcquaSeal™ Is Used For

Interior concrete floors — The primary use case for AcquaSeal™. Living rooms, kitchens, basements, sunrooms, retail spaces, restaurants, offices, and any indoor concrete floor where a low-VOC, low-odor sealer is essential. AcquaSeal™ is one of the few professional-grade concrete sealers safe to apply indoors without specialized ventilation. For interior floors that see daily foot traffic, apply ProWax Polish™ over the cured AcquaSeal™ as a sacrificial protective layer.

Sealing stained concrete — After applying a water-based concrete stain, the sealer is the step that locks in the color, makes it "pop," and protects the stained surface from wear and water. AcquaSeal™ is the water-based clear sealer that Direct Colors recommends as the sealing step for water-based stain projects. Always use matching chemistry — water-based sealer over water-based stain.

Sealing stamped concrete — Stamped concrete patios, walkways, and pool decks where the homeowner or contractor needs a low-VOC option. AcquaSeal™ enhances the color and texture of stamped patterns while protecting the surface.

Sealing plain (unstained) concrete — Protects against water penetration, staining from spills, surface wear, and UV exposure. Slightly enhances the natural color of the concrete for a more finished look.

Concrete patios and walkways — Exterior surfaces where a water-based sealer is preferred for low-VOC compliance, HOA restrictions, occupied adjacent spaces, or environmental reasons.

Concrete pool decks — Pool surrounds where the sealer needs to handle water, UV, and pool chemicals. For slip resistance, add OxiGrip™ slip-resistant additive to AcquaSeal™ before applying.

Clear topcoat over colored sealers — When a water-based colored sealer needs additional protection on high-traffic surfaces, or when OxiGrip™ slip-resistant additive needs a carrier, AcquaSeal™ is the clear water-based topcoat designed for the job. Always use matching chemistry — AcquaSeal™ (water-based) over water-based tinted sealers.

Why Customers Choose Water-Based Over Solvent-Based Sealer

The decision between AcquaSeal™ (water-based) and a solvent-based sealer depends on the project requirements:

Choose AcquaSeal™ when:

• The project is indoor or in an occupied space
• Low-VOC compliance is required (LEED, healthcare, schools, government)
• HOA or municipal restrictions prohibit solvent-based products
• Sensitivity to solvent fumes is a concern
• Pets, children, or chemically-sensitive occupants are present
• Environmental compliance or preference matters
• You want easy water cleanup of tools and overspray

Choose a solvent-based sealer when:

• Maximum exterior durability is the top priority (high-traffic driveways, commercial exteriors)
• The project is entirely outdoor with no ventilation concerns
• You want the deepest possible color enhancement and wet-look finish
• Cold climate freeze/thaw performance matters most

AcquaSeal™ provides durable, professional protection for the vast majority of concrete sealing projects. Solvent-based sealers offer an edge in extreme-durability exterior applications. For most residential and commercial interior/exterior projects, AcquaSeal™ delivers the protection you need without the fumes, the VOC compliance issues, or the safety considerations of solvent chemistry.

Satin or Gloss: Choosing Your Finish

AcquaSeal™ is available in two finishes. Both provide identical protection — the choice is purely aesthetic:

AcquaSeal™ Satin — A low-sheen, natural finish that enhances the concrete's color without adding visible shine. Popular for residential interiors, modern commercial spaces, and any project where the concrete should look protected and enriched but not glossy.

AcquaSeal™ Gloss — A reflective finish that adds visible shine and depth to the concrete surface. Popular for retail spaces, showrooms, restaurants, and any project where a gleaming sealed surface is part of the design.

How to Use AcquaSeal™ Acrylic Concrete Sealer

Full step-by-step instructions ship with the product. Overview:

1. Confirm the concrete surface is clean, dry, and ready for sealing. Free of dirt, oils, contamination, and loose material. If you've just stained the concrete, make sure the stain is fully cured per the stain product's instructions before sealing.
2. Apply the first coat of AcquaSeal™ with a plastic pump sprayer, foam brush, or low-nap roller. Work in manageable sections, applying an even, thin coat across the entire surface. Avoid puddling or pooling.
3. Allow the first coat to dry for 1-2 hours depending on temperature and humidity.
4. Apply the second coat. Two coats are recommended for full protection and the best finished appearance.
5. Allow to cure fully. AcquaSeal™ typically dries to the touch in 1-2 hours per coat and reaches full cure in 24 hours. Light foot traffic is acceptable after 24 hours; full vehicle traffic should wait 48-72 hours.
6. Optional for interior floors: Apply ProWax Polish™ over the fully cured AcquaSeal™ as a sacrificial layer for daily foot traffic protection.

AcquaSeal™ Coverage

Coverage: 200 square feet per gallon with the recommended two-coat application.

Available sizes:

• 4 oz — Sample size for testing finish appearance on your specific concrete before ordering a full gallon
• 1 gallon — Covers approximately 200 sq ft (two coats). Ideal for single rooms, small patios, walkways, and countertops.
• 5 gallon — Covers approximately 1,000 sq ft (two coats). Contractor-scale for large floors, commercial spaces, and multi-room projects. Lowest per-square-foot cost.

Direct Colors: Made in the USA Since 1997

Direct Colors has manufactured professional-grade concrete sealers in the USA for over 25 years. AcquaSeal™ is the water-based acrylic sealer that contractors and homeowners choose when the project needs professional-grade protection in a low-VOC, indoor-safe formulation — not a commodity water-based sealer that sacrifices protection for a lower price point.