Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal Reviews: Is It Worth The Hype?

When it comes to choosing a durable floor coating, the Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal is a product that promises a lot on paper. As a homeowner with a bustling garage and a few exterior surfaces that needed some serious TLC, I was drawn to the claims that this product could protect my concrete and provide a sleek, satin finish.

But after using it and diving into the reviews, it’s clear that this might not be the miracle solution many are looking for.

If you’re considering giving this product a try, you’ll want to read on to understand both the pros and the frustrations that many users, including myself, have encountered.

My Experience With Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal

I applied Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal to my garage floor, hoping it would offer protection against tire marks, oil stains, and other typical garage messes.

After prepping the surface thoroughly and applying two coats, I noticed a few things right off the bat: the paint went on smoothly and the initial look was exactly what I had hoped for — clean, modern, and durable-looking.

However, after some time, the sheen began to fade, and I started to notice signs of wear that had me questioning whether it was worth the effort.

Pros of Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal

While there are many complaints about this product, there are a few things that work in its favor:

Easy Application: The Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal is a ready-to-use acrylic-epoxy blend that requires minimal mixing or complex preparation, which can be a relief if you’re not keen on handling a more complicated two-part epoxy system. It rolls on smoothly, and the directions are fairly straightforward, making the actual application process manageable for beginners.
Low VOC and Low Odor: One of the big selling points of this product is that it’s low in volatile organic compounds (VOC), which means less harmful fumes during and after application. If you’re working in an enclosed space, like a basement or garage, this is definitely a benefit compared to other harsher products.
Multiple Surface Use: It’s versatile enough to be used both indoors and outdoors. I applied it to my garage floor, but it’s also marketed for use on patios, walkways, and driveways. The fact that it resists oil, water, and gasoline stains is great in theory.
UV Resistance: Another claim that stood out to me was the product’s resistance to UV damage, which theoretically makes it suitable for outdoor spaces. In my experience, it did hold up well under the sun without peeling or fading initially.

Cons of Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal

Unfortunately, the list of cons for this product is longer than the pros, and the frustrations of using Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal become more apparent over time.

Lack of Durability: One of the major complaints from myself and others is the product’s lack of durability. Despite following the instructions carefully, including proper surface preparation and multiple coats, the finish began to scuff and peel sooner than expected. Several users noted that after only a few months, they experienced peeling, even in areas with low traffic. This really undermines the product’s claims of being a durable, long-lasting solution for concrete surfaces.
Thin Coating: Another significant issue is the thin consistency of the paint itself. Unlike thicker epoxy products that build up a strong layer, Seal-Krete requires multiple coats to achieve decent coverage, and even then, it doesn’t hold up to heavy use. For instance, I had to apply three coats to achieve a uniform finish, and even then, it scuffed easily when walked on.
Hot Tire Pickup: Many users, including myself, have reported that the paint doesn’t withstand hot tires as advertised. After parking my car in the garage for a few days, I noticed tire marks that were difficult to remove. Over time, the paint began to show signs of wear in areas where the tires regularly sat.
Poor Performance in Wet Conditions: A significant issue with Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal is its performance in wet conditions. For exterior surfaces, especially driveways or patios, water exposure can cause the paint to peel or bubble. I noticed this on the edges of my garage where rainwater sometimes pooled. Others have reported similar issues on pool decks and outdoor patios, where water exposure quickly diminished the integrity of the finish.

Comparison With Other Brands

Given the mixed results from Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal, it’s worth comparing it to other epoxy floor coatings to help you decide if there’s a better option.

When it comes to floor coatings, the market is full of alternatives to Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal, each offering different benefits. Let’s take a look at how Seal-Krete stacks up against a few other popular options like BEHR Granite Grip, Quikrete Epoxy Garage Floor Coating, and Valspar Garage Floor Coating Kit.

These comparisons should give you a clearer idea of where Seal-Krete falls short and whether one of these alternatives might be a better fit for your project.

BEHR Granite Grip

BEHR Granite Grip is a textured floor coating designed specifically for concrete surfaces, and it offers a distinct advantage over Seal-Krete in terms of appearance and durability. While Seal-Krete provides a smooth satin finish, BEHR Granite Grip offers a textured, slip-resistant surface that holds up well in high-traffic areas.

Durability: Granite Grip is thicker and provides better protection against heavy foot traffic, making it an excellent choice for outdoor patios, pool decks, and driveways. On the other hand, Seal-Krete’s thinner formula may wear down quickly in similar settings, especially when exposed to harsh weather conditions or frequent use.
Ease of Application: BEHR Granite Grip requires more careful application due to its thicker texture and stippling effect. While Seal-Krete can be rolled on easily, Granite Grip may need more attention to detail during application to ensure even coverage and a consistent finish.
Overall Performance: If you’re looking for a product that offers long-lasting durability and a slip-resistant surface, BEHR Granite Grip is a superior option, especially for exterior applications. However, it comes at a higher price point and requires more effort during application compared to Seal-Krete.

Quikrete Epoxy Garage Floor Coating

Quikrete Epoxy Garage Floor Coating is another popular choice for those looking for a durable, professional-grade finish for their garage or workshop floors. This two-part epoxy system provides a much stronger, thicker coating than Seal-Krete, and it’s specifically designed to withstand heavy traffic and exposure to chemicals.

Durability: Quikrete’s two-part epoxy formula creates a tougher, more durable surface that resists hot tire pickup, oil, gasoline, and water. Compared to Seal-Krete, which has issues with peeling and scuffing, Quikrete holds up much better under pressure, making it a more reliable option for garages and driveways.
Application: Unlike Seal-Krete’s one-part, ready-to-use formula, Quikrete’s two-part system requires mixing before application. While this adds an extra step, the payoff is a much stronger finish that lasts longer and performs better in challenging environments.
Cost and Value: Quikrete is more expensive than Seal-Krete, but the added durability and longevity make it a better investment, especially for high-traffic areas. If you’re looking for a garage floor coating that will hold up over time, Quikrete is definitely worth the extra cost.

Valspar Garage Floor Coating Kit

Valspar Garage Floor Coating Kit is another competitor in the epoxy floor coating market, known for its ease of use and strong finish. Like Seal-Krete, it’s a one-part epoxy, but it performs slightly better in terms of durability and resistance to hot tires and stains.

Durability: Valspar’s formula offers better resistance to wear and tear than Seal-Krete, especially in areas exposed to vehicle traffic. While both products are similar in terms of ease of application, Valspar has a slight edge in maintaining its appearance over time, with fewer issues of scuffing and peeling.
Application: Both Valspar and Seal-Krete are easy to apply, requiring just a roller and basic prep work. However, users have reported better results with Valspar in terms of consistency and fewer coats needed for full coverage.
Overall Value: Valspar Garage Floor Coating Kit sits in a similar price range as Seal-Krete but offers slightly better performance and durability, making it a good alternative if you’re looking for a quick and easy garage floor solution without going for a more intensive two-part epoxy system.

Maintenance Tips For Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal

If you’ve already committed to using Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal, there are a few maintenance tips to help extend its lifespan:

Regular Cleaning: Make sure to clean your surface regularly to prevent dirt buildup, which can wear down the finish over time. Use mild detergents and avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade the coating.
Avoid Hot Tires: If possible, avoid parking vehicles with hot tires directly on the surface. Let the tires cool down outside the garage to prevent tire pickup.
Reapply Sealant: Consider applying a clear epoxy sealant on top of the Epoxy-Seal to add an extra layer of protection. However, even with this, don’t expect long-lasting results in high-traffic areas.
Touch-Ups: Be prepared to touch up spots that wear down or peel. Small touch-ups can help maintain the look, but it’s a stopgap solution at best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does SEAL-KRETE epoxy seal take to dry?

Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal dries to the touch in about 2 hours, but it’s important to let it cure fully before heavy use. For foot traffic, wait at least 24 hours, and for vehicle traffic, give it at least 72 hours to cure completely.

What does SEAL-KRETE do?

Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal is a floor coating designed to protect and seal concrete surfaces. It resists water, oil, grease, and stains, making it ideal for garages, basements, patios, and driveways.

Is SEAL-KRETE slippery when wet?

While Seal-Krete does provide some protection against slipping, it can still become slick when wet, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic. Adding a non-slip additive to the mix can help improve traction.

Will SEAL-KRETE work on wood?

Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal is specifically formulated for concrete surfaces and isn’t recommended for use on wood. For wood surfaces, it’s better to use products designed specifically for that material.

Conclusion: Should You Buy Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal?

If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly solution to spruce up your garage or outdoor surfaces, Seal-Krete Epoxy-Seal might seem like an appealing option. However, based on my experience and the wealth of negative reviews online, it’s clear that this product doesn’t live up to its promises.

The durability issues, thin consistency, and problems with peeling and scuffing make it hard to recommend for any high-traffic or outdoor areas. For a bit more money and effort, you’ll likely be happier with a more reliable product like Rust-Oleum EpoxyShield or Sherwin-Williams ArmorSeal.

These options will save you from the headache of having to redo your floors in just a few months.