Durability is a critical factor affecting the service life of concrete structures. Surface coating protection technology is an important means to enhance the durability of concrete. Nano-gel Type I, as a novel coating material, has the capability to enhance both the mechanical and durability properties of concrete. This study investigates the effects of Nano-gel Type I on the compressive strength, permeability resistance, and early-stage crack resistance of concrete through compressive strength tests on hydraulic lining concrete specimens, water penetration height tests, and slab cracking tests. The results indicate that incorporating Nano-gel Type I enhances concrete's mechanical performance and durability. The compressive strength of the concrete in the experimental group increases with the extension of the curing period. Nano-gel Type I effectively seals the pathways for external moisture to enter the concrete, reduces the surface porosity, suppresses permeability, and enhances water resistance. Using Nano-gel Type I significantly reduces the number and width of concrete cracks. Notably, when the spray amount is increased to 350 mL/m2, the crack reduction rate reaches 95.33%. An economic analysis demonstrates that a spray amount of 250 mL/m2 is sufficient to achieve excellent crack resistance.