DIYPicks

DOMINATOR SG+ vs Armor SC25: Wet-Look vs Natural Paver Sealer

By Nate Sawyer, Editor ยท Updated July 2026

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DOMINATOR SG+ High Gloss Paver Sealer

4.6$70

A pro-grade water-based acrylic that delivers a durable high-gloss wet look on concrete pavers and stamped concrete while helping lock joint sand in place. Best when you want color pop and a sealed film, not an invisible finish.

typeAcrylic film-forming (water-based)
finishHigh gloss / wet look
coverage250-400 sq ft per gallon per coat
coats2 coats recommended
resealInterval2-4 years
cleanupSoap and water
vocWater-based, low VOC

Armor SC25 Penetrating Siliconate Water Repellent

4.4$50

A water-based siliconate that soaks in and repels water without any surface film, ideal for keeping bare light-colored concrete patios and pavers looking natural. Choose it when you want protection with zero sheen, not a decorative wet look.

typePenetrating siliconate (water-based)
finishNatural / invisible, no sheen
coverageUp to 175 sq ft per gallon on porous surfaces (200-225 on smooth)
coats1-2 coats wet-on-wet
vocUnder 0 g/L VOC
tractionNo change to surface traction
noteFor light/white concrete only; not for colored, dark, brick, or exposed aggregate

Our verdict

These two solve the same problem in opposite ways. DOMINATOR SG+ is a film-forming acrylic that adds a high-gloss wet look, enriches color, and helps lock joint sand, but it needs resealing every 2-4 years and can be slippery when wet. Armor SC25 is a penetrating siliconate that repels water invisibly with no film, no gloss, and no slip risk, but only on light or white bare concrete and with no decorative payoff. Pick SG+ for a wet-look patio or paver surface, and SC25 for natural water repellency on light-colored concrete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which paver sealer enhances color?
DOMINATOR SG+. Its acrylic film delivers a high-gloss wet look that noticeably enriches paver and stamped-concrete color. Armor SC25 is a penetrating siliconate that leaves the appearance completely unchanged.
Which one locks in joint sand?
The film-forming DOMINATOR โ€” it helps stabilize joint sand and resists weeds and ant activity between pavers. A penetrating sealer does nothing for the joints.
Where can you not use Armor SC25?
On colored, dark gray, brick or exposed-aggregate surfaces. That restriction rules it out for a lot of decorative hardscape, which is worth checking before buying on price.
What goes wrong with a glossy paver sealer?
Haze and slip. Applied too thick or over damp pavers it can turn hazy or white, and the glossy surface gets slippery when wet unless you add an anti-slip additive. It also needs a full reseal every 2-4 years.

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