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Concrete & MasonryConcrete Sealer Calculator — How Much Sealer Do I Need?
Estimate sealer for a concrete patio, driveway, or garage floor. Coverage varies a lot by sealer type, so treat this as a starting point and trust the product label.
How this calculator works
We multiply length × width by the number of coats and divide by about 250 sq ft per gallon — a mid-range figure. Penetrating sealers cover more (≈300–400 sq ft); film-forming and decorative sealers cover less (≈150–250). The label is the final word.
What changes how much you need
- Coverage swings widely by product type — always check the can.
- Bare or porous concrete soaks up the first coat; the second goes further.
- Two thin coats outperform one thick coat and avoid a cloudy finish.
- Most sealers need reapplying every 1–3 years depending on traffic and exposure.
Concrete sealer needed by area (two coats)
| Surface | Area | Gallons (2 coats) |
|---|---|---|
| Small patio | 10 × 12 ft (120 sq ft) | ≈1 gal |
| 1-car garage floor | 12 × 20 ft (240 sq ft) | ≈2 gal |
| 2-car driveway | 20 × 20 ft (400 sq ft) | ≈3 gal |
| Large driveway | 20 × 30 ft (600 sq ft) | ≈5 gal |
| Patio + walkway | ≈800 sq ft | ≈6 gal |
Concrete sealer coverage per gallon, by type
First coats on bare, porous concrete land at the low end of each range; second coats go noticeably further. The can’s rated coverage is the final word.
| Sealer type | Per gallon (1 coat) | 5 gallons covers |
|---|---|---|
| Penetrating (silane/siloxane) | 200–400 sq ft | 1,000–2,000 sq ft |
| Acrylic (film-forming) | 150–300 sq ft | 750–1,500 sq ft |
| Epoxy floor coating | 150–250 sq ft | 750–1,250 sq ft |
| Polyurethane | 200–300 sq ft | 1,000–1,500 sq ft |
| Paver sealer (on pavers) | 100–200 sq ft | 500–1,000 sq ft |
Frequently asked questions
How much sealer for a 2-car driveway?
A typical 20×20 ft driveway (400 sq ft) at two coats needs roughly 3 gallons at 250 sq ft/gallon — but check your sealer’s rated coverage.
How much does 1 gallon of concrete sealer cover?
About 250 sq ft per coat for a typical mid-range sealer. Penetrating silane/siloxane sealers stretch to 200–400 sq ft; film-forming acrylics and epoxies run 150–300 sq ft. The first coat on bare, porous concrete soaks in and covers the least.
How much area does 5 gallons of concrete sealer cover?
Roughly 1,250 sq ft per coat at the typical 250 sq ft/gallon — enough to put two coats on a 20×30 ft driveway. A penetrating sealer can stretch 5 gallons toward 2,000 sq ft per coat, while heavier decorative and epoxy products may only manage 750–1,000 sq ft.
How much does concrete sealer cost?
Most acrylic and penetrating sealers run about $30–$60 a gallon, so sealing a 400 sq ft driveway with two coats (≈3 gallons) costs roughly $90–$180 in material. Higher-end epoxy, polyurethane, and decorative sealers cost more.
How many coats of concrete sealer?
Two thin coats is standard. One thick coat can trap solvent and cloud or peel.
Should I use a roller or a sprayer?
A pump sprayer is fastest and gives the most even coat for thin penetrating and solvent sealers; a 3/8-inch nap roller works well for thicker acrylic and water-based sealers. Whichever you use, keep a wet edge and avoid puddling.
How long before I can walk on sealed concrete?
Most sealers are walk-on ready in about 4–6 hours and take vehicle traffic after 24–48 hours, but cure times vary by product and temperature — always follow the label. Cold or humid weather lengthens it.
How often should I reseal concrete?
Every 1–3 years for most patios and driveways; sooner in harsh climates or heavy traffic.
Does this work as a paver sealer calculator?
Yes — the math is identical, but pavers drink more. Sand joints and porous faces cut coverage to roughly 100–200 sq ft per gallon, so enter your patio’s dimensions and budget toward the higher gallon count. Joint-stabilizing paver sealers land at the low end of that range.