Contractors and property owners often ask the same question:
“Do I need a densifier, a sealer, or both?”
Although densifiers and sealers are sometimes confused, they perform completely different functions in concrete treatment.
This guide explains the difference between a concrete densifier and a concrete sealer — and why nano silica technology delivers the best results for both.
A densifier is a reactive treatment that penetrates the concrete and increases its internal strength.
Nano silica densifiers react with free calcium hydroxide to form additional CSH (calcium silicate hydrate) — the mineral responsible for concrete’s natural hardness.
increases surface hardness
reduces porosity
improves abrasion resistance
strengthens the concrete internally
enhances gloss during polishing
reduces dusting
A densifier is essential for polished concrete and for any floor that needs long‑term durability.
What Is a Concrete Sealer?
A sealer protects the concrete from external contaminants such as water, oils, chemicals and stains.
Nano silica sealers penetrate the surface and create a mineral‑based barrier inside the concrete.
protects against moisture
prevents staining
improves chemical resistance
reduces freeze‑thaw damage
extends the life of the floor
keeps the surface cleaner
A sealer is essential for industrial floors, garages, outdoor slabs and commercial spaces.
Feature Densifier Sealer
Main function Strengthens concrete Protects concrete
Works inside the concrete Yes Yes (nano silica)
Increases hardness ✔ ✔ ( In our case)
Reduces porosity ✔ ✔
Protects from stains ✖ ✔
Protects from moisture ✖ (in our case) ✔
Improves gloss ✔ ✔
Used for polished concrete Essential Recommended
Used for industrial floors Recommended Essential
Do You Need Both?
✔ For polished concrete:
Yes — you need both.
The densifier strengthens the concrete and improves gloss.
The sealer protects the finished surface from moisture and stains.
Usually yes.
A densifier increases durability, while a sealer protects against chemicals, oils and water.
A sealer is essential.
A densifier is optional but recommended for high‑traffic areas.
deeper penetration
faster reaction
stronger CSH formation
higher hardness increase
internal protection (not a film)
no peeling or flaking
long‑lasting moisture resistance
environmentally friendly
Nano silica simply delivers more performance per litre.
For strengthening, polishing and long‑term durability.
For moisture protection, stain resistance and chemical resistance.
Both are made in Sweden for consistent, professional results.
We supply high‑performance nano silica densifiers and sealers directly to contractors in the UK & Ireland.
Contact us for product recommendations, pricing or technical support.
Concrete Densifier vs Concrete Sealer – What’s the Difference?
Learn the difference between a concrete densifier and a concrete sealer. Understand when you need each product and why nano silica delivers superior performance.