Best Clear Sealer For Redwood Deck (2024 Updated)

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If you are looking to protect your redwood deck and keep it looking fresh and new, choosing the right clear sealer is crucial. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the best one for your specific needs. Here are five key points to consider when looking for the best clear sealer for your redwood deck:

1. Transparency: Clear sealers come in different levels of transparency, from completely clear to tinted. Consider the look you want for your deck and choose a sealer that matches your preference.

2. UV Protection: Redwood is susceptible to fading and discoloration from sunlight. Look for a clear sealer that provides UV protection to prevent this from happening.

3. Water Resistance: Redwood is also vulnerable to moisture damage. Choose a sealer that offers water resistance to prevent rot and decay.

4. Durability: The best clear sealer for your redwood deck should be durable and long-lasting. Look for a product that can withstand foot traffic and weather conditions.

5. Application: Consider the ease of application when choosing a clear sealer. Some products require multiple coats or specialized equipment, while others are more simple to apply.

By keeping these key points in mind, you can find the best clear sealer for your redwood deck that will protect and enhance its natural beauty for years to come.

10 Best Clear Sealer For Redwood Deck

1. Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain And Sealer For Wood, 5 Gallon, Redwood – Packaging May Vary

Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood is a high-quality product that is designed to protect and enhance the natural beauty of wood. The product comes in a 5-gallon container with a redwood finish, although the packaging may vary.

One of the key advantages of this product is that it requires no primer, which makes it very easy to use. When first applied, Ready Seal is darkest, and it will reach its true color in approximately 14 days. It is important to note that this product should not be applied over painted or newly stained surfaces, as sealed surfaces inhibit penetration.

Ready Seal can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush, depending on the user's preference. It requires no back brushing, which means that it will never leave runs, laps, or streaks. The product will blend itself and can be applied in any temperature range for proper application, which makes it very versatile.

Another advantage of Ready Seal is that it requires no diluting or thinning prior to spray applications, which makes it very convenient to use. The product is also "Goof Proof," which means that it is very easy to apply and will not leave any laps, runs, or streaks.

One of the best things about Ready Seal is that it can be applied in any temperature, which makes it ideal for use in any climate. It requires no wet-line application, which means that it will blend itself and can be applied easily.

It is important to note that this product is subject to or will include a PaintCare recycling fee in the following states: CA, OR, CT, VT. This fee is designed to help recycle old paint and reduce waste.

Overall, Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood is a high-quality product that is easy to use and provides excellent protection for wood surfaces. Whether you are staining a deck, fence, or other outdoor wood surface, this product is a great choice that will provide long-lasting protection and enhance the natural beauty of the wood.

2. Ready Seal Exterior Stain And Sealer-1 Gallon Can (Redwood 120)

Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is a top-quality product designed for outdoor use on wood surfaces. This product is a blend of wood stain and wood sealer that eliminates the need for separate applications, making it a convenient and efficient solution for homeowners and professionals alike.

One of the standout features of the Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is its durability. This product is formulated to withstand exposure to the elements, and it resists peeling, cracking, and chipping. This makes it an ideal choice for decks, fences, and other outdoor wood surfaces that are subject to harsh weather conditions.

Another important benefit of the Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is its Goof Proof application process. This means that even novice users can achieve professional-looking results with ease. The product is designed to be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer, and it can be used on both smooth and rough-sawn wood surfaces.

It is important to note that the Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is intended for external use only. This product is not suitable for interior wood surfaces, as it is designed to withstand exposure to the sun, rain, and other outdoor elements.

Each gallon of Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer covers approximately 125-150 square feet, depending on the porosity of the wood surface. This makes it a cost-effective solution for large projects, as well as smaller touch-up jobs.

Overall, the Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is a reliable and versatile product that is perfect for anyone looking to protect and enhance the beauty of their outdoor wood surfaces. With its blend of wood stain and wood sealer, durable finish, and easy application process, it is a top choice for homeowners and professionals alike.

3. Storm System's Storm Protector Sealer & Stain Protector – 1 Gallon, Pacific Redwood. Protects Decks And Fences.

STORM SYSTEM Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer & Stain Protector is a high-quality wood deck protector that is designed to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of wood grain. This semi-transparent sealer is formulated with an oil-based solution that allows it to penetrate deep into the wood, providing added protection against harsh weather conditions such as rain, snow, and UV rays.

One of the best features of the STORM SYSTEM Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer & Stain Protector is its compatibility with all wood species. Whether you have a Mahogany deck, Cedar fence, Redwood pergola, Pine wood siding, Douglas Fir porch, Spruce deck, Cyress gazebo, or Pressure Treated wood substrate, this sealer will work wonders to protect and beautify your wood.

This sealer is great for decks, fences, siding, and other wood substrates. It can be used as a wood fence protector, deck protector, or any other wood substrate protector. Moreover, the product is available in various shades, including Pacific Redwood, which gives your wood a rich, warm tone that accentuates its natural beauty.

The STORM SYSTEM Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer & Stain Protector applies easily with brush, roller, or spray application. The lap-free application ensures a smooth and even coat, without any unsightly lap marks. The sealer also provides UV protection, which ensures that your wood does not fade, crack, or warp due to excessive sun exposure.

For best results, it is recommended to apply this sealer on new, clean, and dry wood. The sealer should be applied in two coats, with a minimum of 4 hours between coats. The sealer should be allowed to dry for at least 24 hours before use. Additionally, it is important to note that this sealer is not recommended for use on previously painted or stained surfaces.

In conclusion, the STORM SYSTEM Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer & Stain Protector is an excellent choice for those who want to protect and enhance the natural beauty of their wood. It is compatible with all wood species, easy to apply, and provides UV protection. With this sealer, your wood will look great for years to come.

4. Defy Crystal Clear Composite Deck Waterproofing Sealer, 1 Gallon

DEFY Crystal Clear Composite Deck Waterproofing Sealer is a water-based, clear wood and deck sealer that offers unparalleled protection for composite wood from the harmful effects of the sun. It is specially formulated to provide the necessary protection without changing the natural look of your composite deck.

The sealer is fortified with Zinc Nano-Particle Technology, which acts like sunscreen for your wood. Tiny zinc particles dispersed throughout the stain reflect damaging UV rays, preventing premature graying and color loss. This technology makes DEFY Composite Deck Sealer stand out from other products in the market.

DEFY Composite Deck Sealer is made with the highest quality resins available that have better resistance to fading and darkening, making it extremely durable. This premium-grade, clear deck sealer is built to last and typically lasts a season or two longer than competitive products. This means that you can keep your weathered composite deck or fence looking great for longer by using DEFY.

The sealer is easy to maintain, and there’s no need to strip the surface when it’s time to do a maintenance coat. All you need to do is ensure that the surface is clean, and then apply a single maintenance coat of DEFY Composite Waterproofing Sealer. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to keep their composite deck looking great with minimal effort.

Overall, DEFY Crystal Clear Composite Deck Waterproofing Sealer is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to protect their composite deck while maintaining its natural look. The unique Zinc Nano-Particle Technology, combined with the highest quality resins, makes this sealer extremely durable and long-lasting. It is easy to maintain and provides the necessary protection to keep your deck looking great for years to come.

5. Ready Seal 100 Clear, 1-Gallon Exterior Wood Stain And Sealer, 1 Gallon (Packaging May Vary)

Ready Seal 100 Clear is a high-quality exterior wood stain and sealer that comes in a 1-gallon bottle. This product is designed to protect and enhance the natural beauty of wooden surfaces, including decks, fences, and outdoor furniture. Its clear formula allows the wood's natural color and grain to show through, while providing long-lasting protection against water, UV rays, and mildew.

One of the key benefits of Ready Seal 100 Clear is its ease of use. Unlike many other wood stains, this product requires no primer, and can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush. This makes it a great choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, as it eliminates the need for multiple coats and complicated application techniques. Additionally, Ready Seal 100 Clear requires no back brushing or wet-line application, which further simplifies the process and saves time.

Another advantage of Ready Seal 100 Clear is its versatility. This product can be applied in any temperature range, making it suitable for use in various climates and seasons. Whether you're working in the heat of summer or the cold of winter, you can apply this stain and sealer with confidence, knowing that it will perform well and provide excellent protection for your wooden surfaces.

In terms of performance, Ready Seal 100 Clear is top-notch. It penetrates deep into the wood fibers, creating a protective barrier that resists moisture and prevents damage from UV rays. This helps to prevent cracking, warping, and other forms of wood degradation, which can shorten the lifespan of your outdoor structures and furniture. Additionally, Ready Seal 100 Clear contains ingredients that inhibit the growth of mildew and other fungi, which can cause unsightly discoloration and odors.

Overall, Ready Seal 100 Clear is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality exterior wood stain and sealer. Its clear formula, ease of use, and versatility make it a great option for DIY projects and professional applications alike. Whether you're looking to protect your new deck or restore an old fence, Ready Seal 100 Clear is a reliable and effective solution that will help your wooden surfaces look great for years to come.

6. Defy Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, Redwood 5 Gallon

DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, Redwood 5 Gallon is a high-quality, water-based deck stain that allows the natural grain of the wood to show through with a beautiful semi-transparent, natural matte finish. This product is perfect for staining wood decks, fences, siding, playsets, outdoor patio furniture, and more.

One of the key features of DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is its unique formulation fortified with Zinc Nano-Particle Technology. This technology acts like sunscreen for your wood, with tiny zinc particles dispersed throughout the stain reflecting damaging UV rays, preventing premature graying and color loss. This makes DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain the perfect choice for those who want to protect their wood from the harmful effects of the sun.

Another important feature of DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is its durable quality that lasts. Made with the highest quality resins available, this stain offers better resistance to fading and darkening that ensures long-lasting protection for your wood. This means that you can enjoy the beauty of your wood for longer, without worrying about it losing its color or becoming damaged.

DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is also easy to maintain. By applying a single maintenance coat of DEFY Extreme Wood Stain when the wood starts to show signs of wear, you can keep your wood looking great for years to come. This makes DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain a great choice for those who want to protect their wood without spending too much time or effort on maintenance.

Finally, DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is VOC compliant, making it safe to use in most areas. This water-based stain is VOC compliant everywhere except California, making it a great choice for those who want to protect their wood while also being environmentally conscious.

In summary, DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, Redwood 5 Gallon is a high-quality, water-based stain that offers long-lasting protection for your wood. With its unique formulation fortified with Zinc Nano-Particle Technology, this stain reflects damaging UV rays, preventing premature graying and color loss. It's easy to maintain and offers better resistance to fading and darkening than other wood stains, making it the perfect choice for those who want the best protection for their wood.

7. Olympic Maximum Wood Sealer – Transparent, 1 Gallon.

Olympic Maximum Wood Sealer is an exceptional product designed to protect outdoor wood structures such as decks, fences, siding, and outdoor furniture from the harsh elements of weather. The transparent, clear sealer comes in a 1 gallon container and provides a superior level of protection that is unmatched by other brands.

One of the key features of this product is its weather-ready application, which allows for cleaning and staining on the same day, even in temperatures as low as 35 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that you can apply the sealer to your deck or fence, and it will be ready for rain in just 8 hours. This feature is particularly important for those who live in areas with unpredictable weather.

The Olympic Maximum Wood Sealer is a penetrating formula that delivers enhanced protection to your outdoor wood structures. The clear waterproofing deck and fence sealant penetrates deep into the wood, creating a barrier that repels water and prevents damage from UV rays. This not only helps to preserve the natural beauty of your wood, but it also extends the life of your outdoor structures.

Another great feature of this product is its easy clean-up. The sealer can be easily cleaned up with soap and water, making it a convenient and hassle-free option for homeowners. Additionally, for best results, it is recommended to apply one thin, even coat of the sealer to your exterior wood decks, fences, siding, railings, outdoor furniture, and other wood surfaces.

Overall, the Olympic Maximum Wood Sealer is an excellent choice for those looking to protect their outdoor wood structures from the damaging effects of weather. Its weather-ready application, penetrating formula, and easy clean-up make it a convenient and effective solution for homeowners looking to preserve the natural beauty of their outdoor wood structures.

Best Clear Sealer For Redwood Deck FAQs

Are there any eco-friendly clear sealers for redwood decks?

Yes, there are eco-friendly clear sealers available for redwood decks. These sealers are made from water-based formulas that contain low or zero VOC (volatile organic compounds), making them safer for the environment and human health. Some eco-friendly sealers also incorporate natural oils and plant-based ingredients that provide additional protection and nourishment to the wood, without harming its natural beauty.

When selecting an eco-friendly sealer for your redwood deck, it's important to consider factors such as durability, UV-resistance, and ease of application. Look for products that have been tested and certified by reputable organizations such as Green Seal, EPA, or LEED, to ensure their eco-friendliness and performance.

Overall, using an eco-friendly clear sealer for your redwood deck is a great way to protect and preserve its natural beauty while minimizing your impact on the environment.

Can clear sealers protect redwood decks from UV damage?

Yes, clear sealers can protect redwood decks from UV damage to a certain extent. However, it is important to select a high-quality sealer that is specifically designed to resist UV rays. Redwood is a softwood that is prone to weathering and fading, and exposure to sunlight and moisture can cause it to turn gray over time. A clear sealer can help to prevent this by forming a protective layer over the wood that blocks UV rays and prevents moisture from penetrating the surface. However, it is important to note that even the best sealers will eventually wear off and need to be reapplied. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the deck can also help to prolong its lifespan and protect it from environmental damage.

How long do clear sealers typically last on redwood decks?

Clear sealers are used to protect redwood decks from the elements and enhance their natural beauty. The lifespan of clear sealers on redwood decks depends on several factors such as the type and quality of the sealer, the weather conditions in the area, and the level of foot traffic on the deck. Typically, clear sealers last between 2-5 years on redwood decks. However, some high-quality sealers can last up to 7 years or more with proper maintenance. It is essential to recoat the deck with sealer before the existing sealer wears off completely to prevent damage to the wood. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance of the deck can extend the life of the sealer and the deck itself. Overall, the lifespan of clear sealers on redwood decks can vary depending on several factors, but with proper maintenance, they can last for several years.

What are the top-rated clear sealers for redwood decks?

There are several top-rated clear sealers for redwood decks, depending on the desired outcome and level of protection. Some of the most popular options include:

1. Thompson's WaterSeal Advanced Natural Wood Protector – This sealer is ideal for protecting against water damage and UV rays. It also resists mildew growth and can be applied to both wet and dry wood.

2. Olympic Maximum Clear Waterproofing Sealant – This sealer provides a clear finish that enhances the natural beauty of redwood while protecting against water and sun damage. It also resists mildew and algae growth.

3. Cabot Clear Solution – This sealer provides a natural-looking finish that protects against water damage, UV rays, and mildew growth. It's easy to apply and dries quickly.

Ultimately, the best sealer for a redwood deck will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the homeowner. Consulting with a professional and reading reviews can help in making an informed decision.

What is the best way to apply a clear sealer to a redwood deck?

The best way to apply a clear sealer to a redwood deck is by following these steps:

1. Clean the deck thoroughly with a deck cleaner and let it dry completely.

2. Sand any rough spots or splinters on the deck.

3. Apply the clear sealer with a paintbrush, roller, or sprayer in a thin and even coat.

4. Allow the sealer to dry completely before applying a second coat.

5. Repeat the process of applying a second coat and allowing it to dry completely.

It is crucial to choose a high-quality clear sealer that is designed for redwood decks. The sealer should be UV-resistant, water-resistant, and provide protection against mildew and mold. Additionally, it is essential to apply the sealer in dry weather conditions and avoid applying it during high humidity or rain. By following these steps, you can ensure that your redwood deck is well protected and maintains its natural beauty for years to come.

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