10 Best Exterior Stain For Cedar (2024 Update)

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If you're looking for an exterior stain for cedar, there are a few key points to keep in mind. First of all, cedar is a type of wood that is known for its natural beauty and durability. However, it is also vulnerable to weathering, which means that it needs to be protected with a good quality stain.

Here are five things to consider when looking for an exterior stain for cedar:

1. Type of stain: There are different types of stains available for cedar, including oil-based, water-based, and hybrid stains. Each type has its own pros and cons, so it's important to choose one that suits your needs.

2. Color: Cedar stains come in a wide range of colors, from natural wood tones to darker shades. Consider the overall look you want to achieve and choose a color that complements your home's exterior.

3. Transparency: Some stains are more transparent than others, which means that they allow more of the wood grain to show through. If you want to showcase the natural beauty of your cedar, choose a more transparent stain.

4. UV protection: Cedar is vulnerable to fading from the sun's UV rays, so it's important to choose a stain that offers UV protection.

5. Application method: Different stains require different application methods, such as spray, brush, or roller. Consider your own skills and preferences when choosing a stain.

By keeping these key points in mind, you can find the right exterior stain for your cedar that will protect it from the elements while enhancing its natural beauty.

10 Best Exterior Stain For Cedar

1. Vermont Natural Coatings Polywhey Exterior Penetrating Stain – Lakeside Cedar – Gallon

Vermont Natural Coatings has introduced the PolyWhey Exterior Penetrating Stain in Lakeside Cedar, available in a gallon size. This advanced formula delivers rich color and waterproofing deep into the wood for increased protection and durability.

The primary function of this product is to protect wood projects against moisture and harmful UV rays, preventing rot and decay by creating a non-toxic, waterproof barrier. This stain is perfect for use on exterior wooden surfaces such as siding, fences, and outdoor furniture.

PolyWhey Exterior Penetrating Stain is a one-step, durable, element-repelling sealer and topcoat designed for outdoor use. It delivers superior protection against harsh weather and environmental factors. This product is formulated with whey protein, which acts as a co-binder, making it a bio-based solution. This renewable resource delivers the safest and most durable paints, stains, and finishes on the market.

The application of this product is easy and hassle-free. The stain dries in 48 hours, making it a quick solution for outdoor projects. The cleanup process is just as simple, using soap and water to remove any excess stain from the surface.

Overall, Vermont Natural Coatings PolyWhey Exterior Penetrating Stain in Lakeside Cedar is a high-quality product that delivers long-lasting protection and rich color to exterior wooden surfaces. Its bio-based formula makes it a safe and environmentally friendly choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts.

2. General Finishes Exterior 450 Water Based Wood Stain, 1 Quart, Cedar

General Finishes Exterior 450 Water Based Wood Stain is a premium quality pigmented wood stain designed for outdoor projects with vertical surfaces such as garage doors, entrance doors, and furniture. This product is available in a 1 quart size and comes in the Cedar color.

This water-based wood stain is specially formulated for exterior use and is not recommended for large horizontal surfaces such as decks. It contains U.V. absorbers to protect the finish from the sun's harmful rays, but it will not prevent the wood from changing color due to sunlight exposure.

One of the key benefits of this product is its versatility in application. It can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed onto the surface for easy and efficient coverage. Clean up is also a breeze with this water-based formula, as it can be easily cleaned up with soap and water.

Overall, General Finishes Exterior 450 Water Based Wood Stain is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance the natural beauty of their outdoor wood projects. Its premium quality, easy application, and U.V. protection make it a top choice for vertical surfaces such as doors and furniture.

3. General Finishes Exterior 450 Water Based Wood Stain, 1 Gallon, Cedar

General Finishes Exterior 450 Water Based Wood Stain is an exceptional product that will enhance the appearance of any outdoor wood structure. This product is available in a one-gallon size and comes in a plastic jug due to a current metal can shortage.

It is important to note that while this stain is ideal for outdoor use, it is not recommended for large horizontal surfaces such as a deck. However, it is perfect for use on fences, siding, and other vertical surfaces. The stain contains U.V. absorbers that help protect the finish from the sun's damaging rays. Despite this protection, the wood may still change color due to exposure to sunlight.

General Finishes Exterior 450 Water Based Wood Stain can be applied using a brush, roller, or sprayer, making it a versatile product that can be used to achieve a variety of finishes. Cleanup is easy, as this product can be cleaned up with soap and water.

This high-performance stain is water-based, making it an environmentally friendly option. It is also VOC-compliant, which means it meets the strict guidelines for volatile organic compounds set by the Environmental Protection Agency.

The cedar color of this stain is a popular choice for outdoor structures, as it adds warmth and depth to the wood. This stain is also available in several other colors, including black, coffee bean, and graystone.

Overall, General Finishes Exterior 450 Water Based Wood Stain is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance the appearance of their outdoor wood structures. It is easy to apply, environmentally friendly, and offers U.V. protection to help maintain the finish over time.

4. Amteco Division Of Gemini Industrie Twp-1501-5 5 Gal Cedar Voc Stain, Cedartone

The AMTECO division of Gemini Industrie brings to you the TWP-1501-5 5-gallon Cedar VOC Stain in Cedartone, a premium quality exterior wood stain that is designed to provide smooth, even coverage and superior application results. This product is perfect for homeowners who want to renew and refresh their exterior wood surfaces, such as decks, fences, and outdoor furniture.

The TWP-1501-5 Cedar VOC Stain is formulated with advanced technology that enhances the natural beauty of the wood, while providing long-lasting protection against water, UV rays, and mildew. The product is specially designed to penetrate deep into the wood fibers, providing maximum protection and durability.

The stain is easy to apply and dries quickly, allowing you to get back to using your outdoor space in no time. The Cedartone color is a beautiful, rich shade of brown that complements the natural beauty of cedar wood. The color is also fade-resistant, ensuring that your outdoor surfaces will look great for years to come.

One of the best things about this product is its versatility. It can be used on a variety of exterior wood surfaces, including decks, fences, siding, and outdoor furniture. The stain is also VOC compliant, making it safe for use in all 50 states.

In addition to its aesthetic benefits, the TWP-1501-5 Cedar VOC Stain is also a great investment in the longevity of your outdoor wood surfaces. By protecting them from the elements, you can extend the life of your investment and avoid costly repairs or replacements down the line.

Overall, the AMTECO division of Gemini Industrie's TWP-1501-5 5-gallon Cedar VOC Stain in Cedartone is a top-of-the-line exterior wood stain that provides smooth, even coverage, superior application results, and long-lasting protection. Whether you're looking to refresh your deck, fence, or outdoor furniture, this product is a great choice for homeowners who demand the best.

5. Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, Cedar, 12 Ounce

Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is a premium quality, highly durable product designed to protect and enhance the natural beauty of exterior wood surfaces. This stain is specifically formulated to provide excellent water repellency and UV fade protection, ensuring long-lasting performance even in harsh outdoor conditions.

The fast-drying formula of Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain allows for quick and easy application, while providing even coverage and a beautiful semi-transparent finish. The product comes in a 12-ounce can and is available in the Cedar color.

One of the key features of Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is its ability to repel water, which helps to prevent damage and deterioration due to moisture. This makes it an excellent choice for use on decks, fences, outdoor furniture, and other exterior wood surfaces that are exposed to the elements.

In addition to water repellency, Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain also provides excellent UV fade protection. This means that the color of the stain will remain vibrant and true, even after prolonged exposure to sunlight. This helps to maintain the natural beauty of the wood and ensures that it looks great for years to come.

Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is easy to apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer. The fast-drying formula means that you can apply a second coat within hours of the first coat, allowing you to finish your project quickly and efficiently.

Overall, Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is an excellent choice for anyone looking to protect and enhance the natural beauty of their exterior wood surfaces. Its water repellent and UV fade protection properties, combined with its fast and easy application, make it a top choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

6. Defy Essential Semi-Transparent Deck Stain & Sealer – Cedar Tone (1 Gallon) – One Day Application.

DEFY Essential Semi-Transparent Exterior Deck Stain and Sealer is the perfect solution for homeowners looking to enhance the natural beauty of their exterior wood surfaces. This one-day deck stain and fence stain is designed to add color and highlight the wood grain while providing a beautiful, flat finish.

With DEFY Essential, you can clean and stain your wood in the same day, saving you time and effort. Simply clean your wood in the morning and stain it in the afternoon once it is visibly dry. This outdoor wood stain is easy to use and apply, making it perfect for DIY enthusiasts.

The DEFY Essential Semi-Transparent Exterior Deck Stain and Sealer is available in Cedar Tone and comes in a gallon size. It is perfect for use on decks, siding, playsets, and as a fence stain and sealer. This product provides the benefits of both stain and sealer, giving you a longer-lasting finish.

DEFY Essential is made with the latest advancements in acrylic waterborne technology. It contains high-quality ingredients that provide a longer-lasting finish. This means you can enjoy the beauty of your exterior wood surfaces for years to come without having to reapply the stain and sealer.

In terms of application, DEFY Essential can be used with a pump-up sprayer, brush and roller, or airless sprayer. This makes it easy for homeowners to apply the product to their exterior wood surfaces regardless of their experience level.

In conclusion, DEFY Essential Semi-Transparent Exterior Deck Stain and Sealer is a high-quality product that provides a beautiful, natural-looking finish to exterior wood surfaces. It is easy to use, can be applied in one day, and provides the benefits of both stain and sealer. With DEFY Essential, you can enjoy the natural beauty of your exterior wood surfaces for years to come.

7. Duckback Products Db-1901-4 Extension Transparent Stain, Cedar

Duckback Products DB-1901-4 Extension Transparent Stain in Cedar is a perfect solution for anyone looking to add an extra shine to their exterior wood substrates. This gallon-sized oil-based stain is designed for decking or siding and serves both as a stain and sealer in one formula.

The coat reflective pigments in the stain provide maximum UV protection, ensuring that your wood substrates are well protected from the sun's harmful rays. This feature also helps to prevent the wood from fading or losing its color over time. The stain is transparent, which allows the natural beauty of the wood to shine through while still offering protection against weather elements.

The Duckback Products DB-1901-4 Extension Transparent Stain is manufactured in the United States, ensuring that it meets the highest quality standards. Whether you are looking to protect your deck, fence, or other exterior wood substrates, this stain is an excellent choice.

One of the key benefits of this stain is its ease of use. The formula is designed to be applied in just one coat, saving you time and effort. It also dries quickly, allowing you to enjoy your newly stained wood substrates sooner.

In addition to its protective properties, the Duckback Products DB-1901-4 Extension Transparent Stain also adds an extra shine to your wood substrates. The cedar color enhances the natural beauty of the wood, giving it a warm and inviting look. This feature is sure to impress your guests and make your outdoor space more enjoyable.

Overall, the Duckback Products DB-1901-4 Extension Transparent Stain in Cedar is an excellent choice for anyone looking to protect their exterior wood substrates while adding an extra shine. With its one-coat formula, UV protection, and beautiful cedar color, this stain is sure to exceed your expectations.

8. 5 Gal Flood Fld520 Cedar Cwf-Uv Exterior Clear Wood Finish

The Flood FLD520 Cedar CWF-UV Exterior Clear Wood Finish is a high-quality wood finish designed to provide long-lasting protection to outdoor wooden surfaces. With its translucent penetrating acrylic oil emulsion formula, this wood finish offers superior protection against moisture, mildew, and UV sun damage.

One of the key benefits of this wood finish is its ability to penetrate deep into the wood, providing a durable protective layer that can withstand the elements. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor projects such as fences, decks, and outdoor furniture.

In addition to its protective properties, the Flood FLD520 Cedar CWF-UV Exterior Clear Wood Finish is also easy to clean up. The soap and water cleanup means that there is no need for harsh chemicals or solvents, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

When applied, this wood finish provides a clear, natural-looking finish that enhances the beauty of the wood while providing long-lasting protection. The clear finish also allows the natural grain and texture of the wood to show through, creating a beautiful, rustic look.

Overall, the Flood FLD520 Cedar CWF-UV Exterior Clear Wood Finish is a high-quality, durable wood finish that provides excellent protection against the elements. Its easy cleanup and natural-looking finish make it a popular choice for outdoor projects, and its ability to protect against moisture, mildew, and UV sun damage ensures that wooden surfaces remain beautiful and functional for years to come.

9. 1 Gal Ready Seal 112 Natural Cedar Exterior Stain And Sealer For Wood

Ready Seal 112 Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer For Wood is a premium quality product that requires no primer and can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush onto the wood's surface. It is an ideal solution for anyone looking to enhance the natural beauty of their wooden surfaces while also providing protection against the elements.

One of the most significant advantages of this product is that it is "Goof Proof." It requires no back brushing and will never leave runs, laps, or streaks, making it an excellent choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Additionally, it requires no wet-line application, meaning that the product will blend itself and can be applied in any temperature range for proper application.

Ready Seal 112 Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer For Wood is also incredibly versatile. It can be used on a variety of wooden surfaces, including decks, fences, siding, and more. Furthermore, it is darkest when first applied but reaches its true color in approximately 14 days. It is essential to note that it should not be applied over painted or newly stained surfaces as sealed surfaces inhibit penetration.

Another significant advantage of this product is that it requires no diluting or thinning prior to spray applications, making it incredibly easy to use. It is also subject to or will include a PaintCare recycling fee in the following states: CA, OR, CT, VT.

Overall, Ready Seal 112 Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer For Wood is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance and protect their wooden surfaces. It is easy to use, requires no back brushing, and will never leave runs, laps, or streaks. It can be applied in any temperature and on various wooden surfaces, making it incredibly versatile.

Best Exterior Stain For Cedar FAQs

Can I use a clear exterior stain on my cedar deck or should I opt for a tinted stain?

It is possible to use a clear exterior stain on a cedar deck, however, it may not provide the level of protection that is needed to maintain the appearance and longevity of the wood. A clear stain will enhance the natural color and grain of the wood while providing some protection against UV rays and water. However, it will not provide any protection against mildew or other types of fungal growth, which can cause the wood to rot over time.

A tinted stain, on the other hand, will provide a higher level of protection against all of these factors while still allowing the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. The tint can be customized to match the existing color of the deck or to create a new look altogether. Ultimately, the decision to use a clear or tinted stain will depend on personal preference and the level of protection needed for the deck.

How can I ensure that my cedar wood is properly prepared before applying exterior stain?

To ensure that your cedar wood is properly prepared before applying exterior stain, it is important to follow these steps:

1. Clean the surface of the wood using a pressure washer or a stiff bristle brush to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.

2. Sand the wood using a 80-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough areas or splinters.

3. Apply a wood conditioner to the surface of the wood to help the stain penetrate evenly and reduce blotching.

4. Wait for the wood to completely dry before applying the stain.

5. Apply the stain using a brush, roller, or sprayer, following the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying time.

6. Apply at least two coats of stain to ensure maximum protection and durability.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your cedar wood is properly prepared and ready for exterior stain, which will provide long-lasting protection and enhance the natural beauty of the wood.

How often should I apply exterior stain to my cedar siding?

As a professional, I would recommend applying exterior stain to your cedar siding every 3-5 years, depending on climate and exposure to the elements. If your siding is in a particularly harsh environment, such as coastal areas or areas with high levels of pollution, you may need to apply stain more frequently.

It's important to monitor the condition of your siding regularly and look for signs of wear or damage. If you notice any areas where the stain is peeling or fading, it may be time to reapply. Additionally, if you see any signs of rot or decay, it's important to address those issues before applying new stain.

When applying stain, it's important to choose a high-quality product and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Proper preparation of the surface, including cleaning and sanding, is also crucial for achieving a long-lasting finish. With regular maintenance and care, your cedar siding can provide a beautiful and durable exterior for your home.

What are the benefits of using an oil-based exterior stain on cedar wood?

Oil-based exterior stains offer several benefits when applied to cedar wood. Firstly, they penetrate deep into the wood fibers, which enhances the natural grain and beauty of the wood. This results in a rich, long-lasting color that does not fade easily. Additionally, oil-based stains provide superior protection against weathering and UV damage, which helps to prolong the lifespan of the cedar wood. They also offer excellent water resistance, preventing moisture from seeping into the wood and causing rot or decay. Oil-based stains are also easy to apply, and they dry quickly, which means you can enjoy your newly-stained cedar wood sooner. Finally, they are low in VOCs, which makes them environmentally friendly and safe to use. Overall, using an oil-based exterior stain on cedar wood ensures that your investment in this beautiful wood is well-protected and maintained for years to come.

What is the best type of exterior stain for cedar wood?

I can provide you with a professional answer to the question asked.

Cedar wood is a popular choice for outdoor projects due to its natural resistance to decay and insects. To maintain its natural beauty, it is important to choose the right type of exterior stain.

The best type of exterior stain for cedar wood is a semi-transparent oil-based stain. Oil-based stains penetrate the wood fibers, protecting the wood from water damage and UV rays while allowing the wood's natural grain to show through. Semi-transparent stains provide a hint of color while still allowing the wood's natural beauty to shine through.

It is important to choose a high-quality stain that contains a UV inhibitor to prevent the wood from fading over time. Additionally, it is recommended to apply a sealer over the stain to provide an extra layer of protection and extend the life of the stain.

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