Best Exterior Wood Stain And Sealer (2024 Updated)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Are you in search of the best exterior wood stain and sealer? Before you make your purchase, there are a few key points you should consider to ensure you choose the right product for your needs.

Firstly, consider the type of wood you will be staining and sealing. Different types of wood require different types of stains and sealers, so be sure to choose a product that is suitable for your specific wood type.

Secondly, think about the level of protection you need. If your wood will be exposed to harsh weather conditions, you will need a product that offers high levels of protection against UV rays, water, and mildew.

Thirdly, consider the color and finish you want. There are a variety of colors and finishes available, so choose one that complements the overall look of your home or outdoor space.

Fourthly, look for a product that is easy to apply. Some stains and sealers require multiple coats or extensive prep work, so choose a product that is user-friendly and easy to apply.

Lastly, consider the quality and durability of the product. Look for a stain and sealer that is long-lasting and will provide protection for years to come.

By considering these key points, you can find the best exterior wood stain and sealer that will protect and enhance the beauty of your outdoor space.

10 Best Exterior Wood Stain And Sealer

1. Ready Seal 500 Clear, 5-Gallon Exterior Wood Stain And Sealer, 5 Gallon

Ready Seal 500 Clear is a high-quality exterior wood stain and sealer that offers exceptional performance and ease of application. This 5-gallon clear coat is perfect for protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of your wood surfaces, without the need for a primer.

One of the most significant advantages of this product is its versatility in terms of application. Whether you prefer using a sprayer, roller, or brush, this wood stain and sealer can be applied with ease. Moreover, the product requires no back brushing or wet-line application, making it a time-efficient solution for contractors or DIY enthusiasts.

Another great feature of the Ready Seal 500 Clear is its ability to be applied in any temperature range. This means that you don't have to wait for the perfect weather conditions to apply the sealer. Whether it's hot or cold outside, this wood stain and sealer will adhere to the surface and provide long-lasting protection.

The Ready Seal 500 Clear is formulated to penetrate deep into the wood surface, offering superior protection against water, mildew, and UV rays. This clear coat works by enhancing the natural beauty of the wood grain, while also providing a durable protective layer that will keep your wood surfaces looking great for years to come.

In summary, the Ready Seal 500 Clear is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-apply, high-quality wood stain and sealer. Its versatility in application, combined with its ability to be applied in any temperature range, makes it an ideal solution for contractors or DIY enthusiasts looking for a reliable product that delivers superior results.

2. Defy Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain – Premium Stain & Sealer, Butternut 1 Gallon

DEFY Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is a premium quality stain and sealer that has been specifically designed for outdoor use. This flexible wood stain can be applied in one or two coats, depending on the desired level of color and sheen. For a lighter color and flat finish, one coat can be applied, while a second coat can be added to achieve a deeper wood stain color and rich satin sheen.

The DEFY Sealer is rainproof in just four hours, making it ideal for outdoor projects. This semi-transparent wood stain dries in one to two hours, and can even be applied to slightly damp wood. It can be used as a fence sealer, deck sealer, and more, allowing you to clean your deck in the morning and stain it in the afternoon.

This advanced wood stain sealer features Zinc Nano-Technology, which provides advanced UV protection to block harmful UV rays that cause fading, graying, and color loss. The added silicon and siloxane waterproofing technology seals and protects your wood from the damaging effects of water penetration.

This DEFY Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is an oil and water hybrid, which penetrates the wood better and applies like an oil-based deck stain, while lasting longer and retaining color better like a water-based stain. This combination of oil and water technology provides the best of both worlds, allowing for better penetration and superior protection against the elements.

In summary, DEFY Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is a premium quality stain and sealer that provides advanced UV protection and enhanced water resistance. The flexible formula allows for one or two coat application, while the Zinc Nano-Technology and added waterproofing technology provide superior protection against the damaging effects of water and UV rays. The oil and water hybrid technology provides better penetration and longer-lasting color retention for a beautiful, long-lasting finish.

3. Ready Seal 125 Dark Walnut Exterior Wood Stain And Sealer, 1 Gallon (Pack Of 4)44

Ready Seal 125 Dark Walnut Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer is a professional-grade product that is designed to protect and preserve wooden surfaces from the elements. This oil-based formula is available in 1-gallon containers and comes in a pack of four, making it a great option for larger projects or for those looking to stock up on quality wood stain and sealer.

One of the standout features of this product is its ability to highlight the natural look of the wood that it is applied to. The rich, walnut color that it provides is both vibrant and timeless, making it a great choice for a variety of different applications. Whether you are looking to enhance the look of your home's exterior, your deck, or any other wooden surface, this product is sure to deliver.

In addition to its aesthetic benefits, Ready Seal 125 Dark Walnut Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer is also highly effective at protecting wood from the elements. Its oil-based formula allows it to penetrate deeply into the wood, creating a barrier against moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors that can cause damage over time. This means that your wooden surfaces will be better equipped to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use, and will last longer as a result.

Another benefit of this product is its ease of use. Unlike some other wood stains and sealers that require multiple coats and lengthy drying times, Ready Seal 125 can be applied in a single coat using a brush, roller, or sprayer. This can save you time and hassle, allowing you to enjoy your newly-stained and sealed surfaces sooner.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality wood stain and sealer that is both effective and easy to use, Ready Seal 125 Dark Walnut Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer is an excellent choice. With its professional-grade formula and rich, natural color, it is sure to provide lasting protection and enhance the look of any wooden surface.

4. Ready Seal Exterior Stain And Sealer-1 Gallon Can (Pecan 115)

Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is a high-quality product designed to protect and enhance the natural beauty of your outdoor wood surfaces. With its unique combination of wood stain and sealer in one, this product provides a long-lasting and durable finish that resists peeling, cracking, and chipping.

One of the key benefits of Ready Seal is its Goof Proof application process. This means that even if you are not an experienced DIYer or professional contractor, you can achieve professional-quality results with ease. The product is easy to apply and requires no sanding or stripping beforehand, making it an excellent choice for those who want to save time and effort.

It is important to note that Ready Seal is designed for exterior use only. This means that it is ideal for use on outdoor surfaces such as decks, fences, siding, and outdoor furniture. The product is not recommended for use on indoor surfaces or on surfaces that are in direct contact with food or water.

Each gallon of Ready Seal covers approximately 125-150 square feet, depending on the porosity of the wood surface. This makes it a cost-effective choice for homeowners and contractors who want to protect and beautify their outdoor wood surfaces without breaking the bank.

The Pecan 115 color is a popular choice for those who want to achieve a warm and natural look for their outdoor wood surfaces. However, Ready Seal is also available in a wide range of other colors to suit any preference or style.

In summary, Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is a versatile and high-quality product that offers excellent protection and enhancement for your outdoor wood surfaces. Its Goof Proof application process and long-lasting durability make it a popular choice among homeowners and contractors alike. Whether you are staining a deck, fence, or outdoor furniture, Ready Seal is an excellent choice for achieving professional-quality results with ease.

5. Defy Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain – Premium Stain & Sealer, Pewter Gray 1 Gallon

DEFY Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is a premium wood stain and sealer that offers flexible application options and superior protection for your outdoor wood surfaces. This product comes in a Pewter Gray shade and is available in a 1-gallon container.

One of the standout features of DEFY Ultra is its flexibility in application. A single coat of this semi-transparent wood stain will provide a lighter color and a flat finish, while a second coat will deepen the color and create a rich, satin sheen. This allows for customization of the final look of your wood surfaces.

Additionally, DEFY Ultra is rain-ready in just four hours. Its advanced formula dries in one to two hours, making it possible to clean your deck or fence in the morning and apply the stain in the afternoon. This feature ensures that your project won't be ruined by unexpected rain showers.

DEFY Ultra is also designed to protect your wood surfaces from the sun's harmful UV rays. Its advanced zinc nano-technology acts like a sunscreen for your wood, blocking the UV rays that can cause fading, graying, and color loss.

Furthermore, DEFY Ultra offers enhanced water resistance thanks to added silicon and siloxane waterproofing technology. This feature protects your wood from the damaging effects of water penetration, ensuring that your wood surfaces remain in top condition for years to come.

Finally, DEFY Ultra is an oil and water hybrid, which means it penetrates the wood better and applies like an oil-based deck stain while lasting longer and retaining color better like a water-based stain. This feature ensures that your wood surfaces look great and are well-protected.

In summary, DEFY Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is a premium wood stain and sealer that offers flexible application options, superior protection, and advanced technology to keep your wood surfaces looking great for years to come.

6. Ready Seal Exterior Stain And Sealer-1 Gallon Can (Light Oak 105)

Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is a superior quality wood stain and sealer that is designed for use on exterior surfaces. The product promises to provide a flawless finish that is free of peeling, cracking, or chipping, thanks to its advanced formulation. This product is available in a 1-gallon can and is ideal for use on decks, fences, siding, and other outdoor structures.

One of the significant advantages of using Ready Seal is its goof-proof application process. Unlike other wood stains and sealers that require multiple coats, Ready Seal only requires one coat. The product is formulated to penetrate deeply into the wood's surface, providing a long-lasting finish that is resistant to fading, peeling, or chipping. This makes it an ideal choice for homeowners who want to protect their outdoor wood structures from the elements.

Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is available in a range of color options, including Light Oak 105. This color is perfect for those who want a light, natural-looking finish that will blend seamlessly into their outdoor surroundings. The product is also easy to apply, and homeowners can do it themselves without the need for professional assistance.

The product is designed for exterior use only and can cover approximately 125-150 square feet per gallon, depending on the wood's porosity. The product is ideal for use on all types of wood, including cedar, redwood, pine, and cypress. The product is also resistant to mildew and mold growth, ensuring that your outdoor wood structures remain clean and healthy.

In conclusion, Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is an excellent choice for homeowners who want to protect their outdoor wood structures while maintaining their natural beauty. The product is easy to apply, requires only one coat, and is resistant to peeling, cracking, and chipping. With its advanced formulation and goof-proof application process, Ready Seal is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a high-quality wood stain and sealer.

7. Defy Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain – Premium Stain & Sealer, Redwood 1 Gallon

DEFY Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is a premium stain and sealer that comes in the color Redwood and is available in a 1-gallon size. This flexible outdoor wood stain can be applied in either one or two coats, depending on the desired color and finish. A single coat will result in a lighter color and flat finish, while a second coat will add a deeper wood stain color and a rich satin sheen.

DEFY Ultra is a rainproof sealer that dries in 1-2 hours and is rain-ready in just 4 hours, making it an ideal choice for projects that need to be completed quickly. Additionally, this product can be applied to slightly damp wood and can be used as a fence sealer, deck sealer, and more. This allows you to clean your deck in the morning and stain it in the afternoon, saving you time and hassle.

One of the key features of DEFY Ultra is its advanced UV protection with Zinc Nano-Technology. The zinc nano-particles act as a sunscreen for your wood, blocking harmful UV rays that cause fading, graying, and color loss. This ensures that your wood stays looking great for longer, even in harsh outdoor conditions.

In addition to providing UV protection, DEFY Ultra is also a wood stain sealer with enhanced water resistance. This is thanks to the added silicon and siloxane waterproofing technology, which seals and protects your wood from the damaging effects of water penetration. This is especially important for outdoor projects, as exposure to rain and moisture can lead to rot, decay, and other problems.

DEFY Ultra is an oil and water hybrid stain, which means that it penetrates the wood better and applies like an oil-based deck stain. This allows it to last longer and retain color better, like a water-based stain. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality wood stain sealer that delivers exceptional results.

In conclusion, DEFY Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is a premium stain and sealer that offers a range of benefits for outdoor projects. Its flexible application options, rainproof sealer, advanced UV protection, enhanced water resistance, and oil and water hybrid formula make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to protect and enhance their outdoor wood surfaces.

8. Defy Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain – Premium Stain & Sealer, Natural Pine 1 Gallon

DEFY Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is a premium stain and sealer that provides a flexible, long-lasting finish for outdoor wood surfaces. This product is designed to be applied in one or two coats, depending on the desired color and sheen. With one coat, the stain will provide a lighter color and a flat finish. With a second coat, the color will be deeper and the finish will have a rich satin sheen.

One of the key benefits of DEFY Ultra is its quick drying time. The sealer becomes rainproof in just four hours, allowing users to complete their project even if the weather is not perfect. Additionally, DEFY Ultra can be applied to slightly damp wood, making it a versatile option for a variety of outdoor wood surfaces, including fences, decks, and more.

Another major advantage of DEFY Ultra is its advanced UV protection. The product features zinc nano-technology, which acts like sunscreen for wood, blocking harmful UV rays that can cause fading, graying, and color loss over time. This makes DEFY Ultra an excellent choice for outdoor wood surfaces that are exposed to direct sunlight.

DEFY Ultra also offers enhanced water resistance, thanks to the addition of silicon and siloxane waterproofing technology. This technology helps to seal and protect wood from the damaging effects of water penetration, reducing the risk of rot, decay, and other types of water damage.

One of the unique features of DEFY Ultra is its oil and water hybrid formula. This acrylic/alkyd hybrid stain penetrates wood better than traditional water-based stains, while also lasting longer and retaining color better than oil-based stains. This makes DEFY Ultra an excellent choice for anyone who wants the best of both worlds when it comes to wood stains.

In summary, DEFY Ultra Semi Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is a premium stain and sealer that provides flexible, long-lasting protection for outdoor wood surfaces. Its quick drying time, advanced UV protection, enhanced water resistance, and oil and water hybrid formula make it a versatile and effective choice for a wide range of projects.

9. Ready Seal 125 1-Gallon Can Dark Walnut Exterior Wood Stain And Sealer

Ready Seal 125 1-Gallon Can Dark Walnut Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer is a premium quality product designed to provide long-lasting protection and enhance the beauty of exterior wooden surfaces. This product is easy to apply and requires no primer, diluting, or thinning prior to spray applications.

One of the most significant advantages of using Ready Seal 125 is its "Goof Proof" application. It does not require any laps, runs, or streaks, and you do not need to do any back brushing. The product will blend itself, making it easy to apply even in any temperature range.

Ready Seal 125 is darkest when first applied, but it reaches its true color in approximately 14 days. It is important to note that you should not apply this product over painted or newly stained surfaces. Sealed surfaces inhibit penetration, which can affect the overall performance and appearance of the product.

This product may be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush onto the wood's surface. It requires no wet-line application, making it easy to apply without worrying about the weather conditions. Additionally, it is subject to or will include a PaintCare recycling fee in the following states: CT, or VT. However, it is not available in CA.

When using Ready Seal 125, it is essential to consider the surface's condition before application. This product works best on clean, dry, and porous surfaces. If the surface is not clean, it may affect the product's performance and appearance.

Overall, Ready Seal 125 1-Gallon Can Dark Walnut Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer is an excellent choice for anyone looking to protect and enhance the beauty of their exterior wooden surfaces. Its "Goof Proof" application, no laps, runs or streaks, and no back brushing make it easy to use, and it can be applied in any temperature range for proper application. However, it is subject to or will include a PaintCare recycling fee in the following states: CA, OR, CT, VT.

10. 1 Gal Ready Seal 112 Natural Cedar Exterior Stain And Sealer For Wood

Ready Seal 112 Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer is a high-quality wood finishing product that requires no primer and is easy to apply. This product is ideal for homeowners and professionals alike who want to protect and enhance the natural beauty of their exterior wood surfaces.

The stain and sealer is darkest when first applied and reaches its true color in approximately 14 days. It is important to note that Ready Seal should not be applied over painted or newly stained surfaces, as sealed surfaces inhibit penetration. However, it may be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush onto the wood's surface.

One of the standout features of Ready Seal is that it requires no back brushing and will never leave runs, laps, or streaks. This makes the application process much easier and more efficient, as there is no need for additional tools or steps. Additionally, the product does not require wet-line application, meaning it will blend itself and can be applied in any temperature range for proper application.

Another benefit of Ready Seal is that it requires no diluting or thinning prior to spray applications. This saves time and hassle for those who prefer to use a sprayer for application. The product is also "Goof Proof," meaning there is minimal risk of making mistakes during the application process.

It is important to note that Ready Seal is subject to or will include a PaintCare recycling fee in the following states: CA, OR, CT, VT. This fee helps to support recycling efforts and ensure that the product is disposed of properly.

Overall, Ready Seal 112 Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer is a reliable and easy-to-use product that offers excellent protection and enhancement for exterior wood surfaces. Its unique features make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to improve the look and durability of their exterior wood projects.

Best Exterior Wood Stain And Sealer FAQs

Are there any environmentally-friendly or low-VOC options available for exterior wood stain and sealer products?

Yes, there are environmentally-friendly and low-VOC options available for exterior wood stain and sealer products. These options include water-based stains and sealers, which are typically lower in VOC emissions than oil-based counterparts. Some brands also offer eco-friendly options made with natural ingredients or recycled materials. It is important to carefully read product labels and research brands to ensure that they meet your desired environmental standards. Additionally, proper application techniques can help reduce the impact of any product on the environment, such as avoiding overspray and disposing of materials properly. Consult with a professional or retailer to determine the best environmentally-friendly option for your specific project.

How long do exterior wood stain and sealer products typically last before needing to be reapplied?

The durability of exterior wood stain and sealer products can vary depending on several factors such as the type of wood, weather conditions, and level of exposure to UV radiation. Typically, water-based stains and sealers last between two to three years while oil-based products last up to five years. However, this is a general estimate, and the actual lifespan of a product depends on several factors such as the quality of the product, the application method, and the level of maintenance. To ensure maximum protection, it's recommended to reapply exterior wood stain and sealer products every two to three years, or when the finish begins to show signs of wear and tear, such as fading or cracking. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and sanding the surface, can also extend the lifespan of the finish.

What are the best practices for applying exterior wood stain and sealer for optimal protection and longevity?

The best practices for applying exterior wood stain and sealer for optimal protection and longevity include preparing the surface properly by cleaning and sanding it, choosing the right stain and sealer for the type of wood and climate, applying multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat, and allowing each coat to dry fully before applying the next one. It's also important to use high-quality tools, such as brushes or sprayers, and to avoid applying the stain and sealer in direct sunlight or in extremely humid or windy conditions. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and reapplying the stain and sealer every few years, can help extend the life of the wood and protect it from weather and UV damage.

What are the top-rated exterior wood stain and sealer products on the market?

The top-rated exterior wood stain and sealer products on the market are those that provide long-lasting protection against harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and water damage. Some of the most popular brands include Behr Premium, Thompson's WaterSeal, Cabot Australian Timber Oil, and Olympic Elite.

Behr Premium is known for its durability and high-quality finish, while Thompson's WaterSeal is a budget-friendly option that offers excellent protection against water damage. Cabot Australian Timber Oil is a popular choice for those looking for a natural finish that enhances the wood's natural beauty. Olympic Elite is a top-rated stain and sealer that provides excellent protection against UV rays and fading.

When choosing a wood stain and sealer, it's important to consider the type of wood, the level of protection needed, and the desired finish. It's also crucial to properly prepare the wood surface before applying the stain and sealer to ensure maximum effectiveness.

What factors should be considered when choosing the best exterior wood stain and sealer for a particular project or environment?

When choosing the best exterior wood stain and sealer, several factors should be considered. Firstly, the type of wood and its condition should be considered. Some stains and sealers are formulated for specific types of wood and can protect against specific environmental factors such as UV rays or moisture. Secondly, the climate and environment should be taken into account. For example, if the project is in a humid or rainy area, a water-resistant sealer will be necessary. Thirdly, the desired look and finish should be considered. Some stains and sealers provide a transparent finish while others can change the color of the wood. Finally, the level of maintenance required should be considered. Some stains and sealers require regular reapplication while others can last for several years before needing to be reapplied. Overall, the best exterior wood stain and sealer should be chosen based on the specific needs and requirements of the project and environment.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Comment