GEMCOAT™

GEMCOAT^™ water-resistant sealer represents an innovation for enhancing our premium architectural masonry units. It is a liquid membrane sealer made of a 100% acrylic polymer formulation that creates a full-gloss finish that protects and improves the appearance of architectural blocks.

GEMCOAT enhances and deepens the beauty and color of the aggregates within the masonry unit and is the same sealer applied to our block units during production.

GEMCOAT is resistant to liquids yet is vapor/air permeable. It provides excellent protection from the elements, such as water, alkalis, acids, air-borne pollutants, and ultraviolet light, without losing the clear gloss finish.

GEMCOAT^™ BENEFITS:

• Full-gloss finish
• Fast drying: dry to the touch in 10 to 15 minutes
• Water resistant, yet vapor and air permeable
• Meets most state and federal VOC requirements
• Cleanable with commercially available surface cleaners
• Low film build application: 5 wet mils max

GEMCOAT^™ APPLICATION:

1. Substrate must be dry and clean of oil and dirt.
2. Apply GEMCOAT using a soft brush, roller or spray.
3. Let stand for a minimum of 15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about GEMCOAT™ sealer? Find answers about durability, solvent-based performance and indoor application methods to help you choose the right sealer for your masonry project.

How long does GEMCOAT™ sealer last before reapplication?

GEMCOAT™ sealer is designed for exceptional durability and long-term protection, with a seven-year warranty against chipping, cracking, peeling, or yellowing due to UV light when properly applied to vertical ground face block. The robust 100% acrylic polymer formulation helps your masonry units maintain their appearance and protection for many years, provided the surface has not been abused or abraded.

Does GEMCOAT™ prevent freeze-thaw damage?

GEMCOAT™ helps protect masonry from water and the elements by creating a water-resistant liquid membrane. It resists water, alkalis, acids, airborne pollutants and ultraviolet light while remaining vapor and air-permeable. This protection helps architectural masonry units maintain their appearance and performance over time.

How does GEMCOAT™ compare to water-based sealers?

GEMCOAT™ differs from water-based sealers because it uses a solvent-based, 100% acrylic polymer formulation. This formula creates a full-gloss finish and provides strong resistance to water, alkalis, acids and UV light. Compared to water-based options like GEMCOAT-WB™, GEMCOAT™ may be better suited for projects where a solvent-based sealer is preferred. 

Both options can enhance architectural blocks, so the right choice depends on your project’s exposure conditions, finish preferences and application requirements. Consulting our technical resources can help you compare sealer options, application requirements and performance details before choosing the best fit for your masonry project.

Is GEMCOAT™ safe to apply indoors near people and pets?

For indoor applications, we recommend ensuring proper ventilation, as with any solvent-based product, to maintain a safe environment for people and pets. GEMCOAT™ is formulated with a VOC content of 2.99 lbs/gal (359 g/L). Our GEMCOAT-WB product, being water-based, may be a better option for interior coating applications. Always refer to the Safety Data Sheet for comprehensive safety information and guidelines for proper application and handling.