Concrete is porous. Left unsealed, it absorbs water, and with water come minerals, dirt and the conditions algae likes. A good sealer helps protect the surface of a concrete fountain and keeps it looking its best.
This guide covers why sealing matters, how often to do it and a general approach. Sealers vary a lot, though. Always follow the instructions for the specific product you use.
Why seal a concrete fountain?
We recommend resealing once a year with the Fountain & Flora sealer. Our Fountain Installation Guide explains why: to "protect the surface and prevent algae buildup."
In general terms, sealing:
- Reduces how much water the concrete absorbs.
- Helps limit staining and mineral marks.
- Makes routine cleaning easier.
Do Fountain & Flora fountains come sealed?
Yes. All of our fountains ship sealed and protected, and we also provide a complimentary sealer for future touch-ups. Some product pages mention this directly:
- The 30" Concrete Sphere Fountain with a hidden basin is described as "professionally sealed" and "fully sealed and water-ready."
- The Luxury Two-Tier Sphere Fountain lists a complimentary concrete sealer.
- The Grand Concrete Sphere Fountain (36" sphere, 65" basin) and the Luxurious 36" Sphere Fountain list sealer in their kits.
- The 4 FT Two-Tier Concrete Fountain lists "Fountain Sealer" in its kit.
How often should you reseal?
We recommend resealing once a year with the Fountain & Flora sealer. A regular yearly schedule keeps the protective layer fresh, especially for fountains in strong sun, hard-water areas or freeze-thaw climates.
A simple check: sprinkle a little water on a dry, clean area. If it beads up, the sealer is still working. If it soaks in quickly and darkens the concrete, it may be time to reseal. This is a common rule of thumb, not a guarantee. If you're unsure about your fountain's finish, contact us before resealing.
Choosing a sealer
We recommend the Fountain & Flora sealer, the complimentary sealer we provide with your fountain. If you ever use a different product, keep in mind there are many concrete sealers on the market, including penetrating sealers and film-forming topical sealers, in water-based and solvent-based types. For a fountain, look for a product that is:
- Rated for exterior use.
- Suitable for concrete that will be in contact with water.
- Compatible with your fountain's finish or color.
If you have fish or plants in a fountain or pond, check that the product is labeled safe for them. The simplest option is the Fountain & Flora sealer we provide with your fountain.
General steps for sealing
These are general steps only. Always follow the instructions for your sealer.
- Unplug and drain. Unplug the pump, drain the fountain and remove the pump.
- Clean thoroughly. Scrub with a soft brush and hot water, use a calcium cleaner on any mineral deposits, and rinse well. See our guide on preventing algae and oxidation.
- Let it dry completely. Sealer needs a dry surface to bond. Follow your sealer's label for drying time.
- Test a small area. Some sealers can darken or add sheen. Test somewhere inconspicuous first.
- Apply thin, even coats with a brush, roller or sprayer, as directed. Avoid puddles.
- Let it cure fully before refilling, following the cure time on your sealer's label.
- Refill and restart. Reinstall the pump, fill so it is covered by 4–6 inches of water (per our installation guide), and plug into a GFCI-protected outlet.
When to seal
Reseal once a year with the Fountain & Flora sealer. On the day, choose dry, mild weather with no rain in the forecast, and follow the temperature range on the sealer label.
What sealer won't do
Sealer helps protect the surface, but it's not a substitute for basic care. You'll still need to:
- Top off water regularly. Our FAQ recommends weekly.
- Clean the pump filter. Our FAQ recommends monthly.
- Drain the fountain and store the pump indoors in freezing temperatures.
- Avoid harsh chemicals. One of our product pages warns against pool shock and harsh chemicals.
Common sealing mistakes to avoid
- Sealing a damp surface. Trapped moisture can cause a cloudy or patchy finish.
- Applying too thick a coat. Heavy coats can puddle, stay tacky or peel.
- Skipping the test patch. Some sealers change the color or sheen of concrete.
- Refilling too soon. Water on uncured sealer can spoil the finish.
- Sealing over dirt or algae. Sealer locks in whatever is on the surface, so clean first.
- Working in direct, hot sun. The sealer can dry too fast to spread evenly.
Sphere fountains and sealing
Sphere fountains have a lot of surface in constant contact with water. Clean and dry the sphere fully before resealing. Take care with the top opening and the base so sealer doesn't block water channels.
Questions?
Every Fountain & Flora fountain is handmade, and finishes vary. Before you apply a new product, contact us to confirm it suits your fountain: info@fountain-flora.com or (714) 210-1414. Browse our Sphere Fountains and Classic Fountains collections.
