Absolutely! Protecting your concrete garden bench is a smart move to extend its life and keep it looking great. The "best" sealant depends on your specific needs, but here are top recommendations.
For most gardeners, a penetrating silane/siloxane sealer is the top choice. It soaks deep into the concrete, blocking water and moisture damage from within without leaving a slippery film. It preserves the natural look of the concrete. Brands like Foundation Armor AR350 or Ghostshield Siloxa-Tek 8500 are excellent.
If you want to enhance color and add a slight sheen, a water-based acrylic sealer is perfect. It forms a protective film on the surface, offering good UV resistance to prevent fading. It's easier to apply and reapply. Thompson's WaterSeal or Rust-Oleum Concrete Shield are reliable, user-friendly options.
For benches facing heavy wear or extreme weather, consider a polyurethane or epoxy sealer. These provide a thick, durable, and often glossy coat that is highly resistant to stains, abrasion, and chemicals. They can alter the appearance more significantly. Rust-Oleum EpoxyShield is a robust choice.
Pro Tips: Always clean the bench thoroughly and let it dry completely before sealing. Apply on a cool, dry day. Reapply every 1-3 years for acrylics, or 5+ years for penetrating sealers, depending on wear. Your properly sealed bench will resist stains, weathering, and cracks for years to come.