The Results of Our Stain TestsThe Concrete Countertop Institute (CCI) performed extensive stain tests on 27 different sealers, which included multi-component catalyzed systems, single-component products, reactive sealers, penetrating treatments and wax. Keep in mind that not all of the strengths and weaknesses of the sealers are quantified or addressed in CCI's sealer testing program. This was a test only of stain and etch resistance, so the ranking is not an indication of the overall desirability of a sealer. Other factors such as appearance, ease of application, cost, environmental impact and ease of repair were not tested. However, these factors are also important when choosing a sealer to use on your concrete countertops. The best stain protection was provided by coatings, including waxes, hardeners and repellants. No penetrating sealer treatment provided anywhere near the protection than did an average-performing coating. For coatings, the best stain protection was provided by highly chemical-resistant products such as urethanes and epoxies. On average, acrylics and reactive sealers faired poorly. The best acrylic performed about the same as the poorest performing epoxy. It should be evident by the results that not all sealers provide the same degree of protection. It's up to you to decide how much protection is required for a particular application. Fireplace mantels and bathroom vanities, for example, have different performance requirements than kitchen countertops, so a sealer that would fair poorly in a kitchen might be fine on a bathroom vanity.
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