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Best Exterior Sealant For Wood (2025 Update)

If you’re looking for the best exterior sealant for wood, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Firstly, it's important to determine your specific needs. Do you need a sealant that can withstand harsh weather conditions or one that provides long-lasting protection against mildew and fungal growth? Additionally, you should consider the type of wood you'll be sealing as some sealants work better on particular types of wood.

Another factor to consider is the application process. Is the sealant easy to apply, or do you need advanced skills to use it? The curing time and frequency of reapplication should also be considered. Lastly, you should research the durability of different sealant brands and read reviews from users to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

Are you tired of seeing your wood surfaces damaged from water, UV rays, and insects? Do you want your wooden surfaces to maintain their natural, elegant look without rotting or splitting? Find out the top five best exterior sealants for wood that can provide long-lasting protection against the elements. How much does it cost to hire a professional to install wood sealer? Are there any alternative DIY methods for sealing outdoor wood? Learn all about exterior wood sealing and how to preserve your outdoor wood surfaces by reading further.

10 Best Exterior Sealant For Wood

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for protecting and enhancing the appearance of exterior wood surfaces such as fences, decks, and siding.
2
It is ideal for staining and protecting exterior wood surfaces.
3
It is ideal for providing waterproof coating and protection to porous wood and masonry surfaces with a natural finish.
4
Ideal for waterproofing and sealing wood surfaces, protecting them from water damage, sun fade, mildew, and weathering.
5
Ideal for sealing windows and siding with a tan-colored, paste-like sealant in a 10.1 oz cartridge.
6
The product is ideal for waterproofing and sealing wooden surfaces to protect from moisture, mold, and mildew damage.
7
Protecting and providing a high gloss finish for wood surfaces such as doors, windows, and outdoor furniture.
8
It is ideal for giving wood a clear and durable finish that protects against UV damage and enhances natural color.
9
It is ideal for preserving above ground wood surfaces and protecting them from rot, decay, and termites.
10
Ideal for staining exterior wood surfaces such as fences, decks, and outdoor furniture for a semi-transparent finish in cedar color.
This product is ideal for protecting and enhancing the appearance of exterior wood surfaces such as fences, decks, and siding.
It is ideal for staining and protecting exterior wood surfaces.
It is ideal for providing waterproof coating and protection to porous wood and masonry surfaces with a natural finish.
Ideal for waterproofing and sealing wood surfaces, protecting them from water damage, sun fade, mildew, and weathering.
Ideal for sealing windows and siding with a tan-colored, paste-like sealant in a 10.1 oz cartridge.
The product is ideal for waterproofing and sealing wooden surfaces to protect from moisture, mold, and mildew damage.
Protecting and providing a high gloss finish for wood surfaces such as doors, windows, and outdoor furniture.
It is ideal for giving wood a clear and durable finish that protects against UV damage and enhances natural color.
It is ideal for preserving above ground wood surfaces and protecting them from rot, decay, and termites.
Ideal for staining exterior wood surfaces such as fences, decks, and outdoor furniture for a semi-transparent finish in cedar color.

1. 5 Gal Flood Fld520 Cedar Cwf-Uv Exterior Clear Wood Finish

The acrylic oil emulsion formula of this product has been specially designed to penetrate deep into the surface, providing a strong and long-lasting protection against moisture, mildew, and UV sun damage. This product is perfect for use on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and concrete.

One of the key benefits of this product is its translucent finish, which allows the natural beauty of the surface to shine through while still providing excellent protection. The formula is also easy to clean up with soap and water, making it a convenient choice for DIY projects and professional applications alike.

In addition to its protective properties, this product is also very versatile. It can be used both indoors and outdoors, and it is compatible with a wide range of paints and finishes. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, all-purpose protective coating.

2. Defy 300158, Crystal Clear Extreme 1 Gallon Exterior Wood Stain, 128 Fl Oz

Looking for a reliable and effective solution to protect your wood from the harmful effects of the sun? Look no further than DEFY Extreme, the water-based, crystal clear wood stain that prevents graying while maintaining the natural look of your wood. This versatile stain is perfect for use on decks, fences, siding, playsets, outdoor patio furniture, and more.

What sets DEFY Extreme apart from other stains is its use of zinc nano-particle technology. This innovative approach disperses tiny zinc particles throughout the stain, acting as a sunscreen for your wood by reflecting damaging UV rays that can cause premature graying and color loss. This fortified formula ensures your wood stays protected for longer, maintaining its natural beauty for years to come.

DEFY Extreme is also extremely durable, thanks to the high-quality resins used in its construction. These resins provide better resistance to fading and darkening, resulting in a semi-transparent deck stain that typically lasts a season or two longer than competitive products. Whether you're looking to maintain your deck, fence, or siding, DEFY Extreme delivers quality that lasts.

When it's time to do a maintenance coat, DEFY Extreme makes it easy. There's no need to sand or strip the surface again – simply brighten the wood with DEFY Wood Brightener and apply a single maintenance coat of DEFY Extreme Wood Stain. This simple process ensures your wood stays protected and looking great without any hassle.

DEFY Extreme is also 250 VOC compliant, making it available for shipping to all states except California. For California residents, DEFY Extreme 40 is VOC compliant and offers the same outstanding protection and durability as DEFY Extreme.

Invest in DEFY Extreme for a reliable and effective solution to protect your wood while maintaining its natural beauty.

3. Wood And Masonry Waterproofing Solution – Rain Guard Pro

RainguardPro MICRO-SEAL is a professional-grade water repellent that is designed to protect, restore, and prolong the life of your project. This multisurface sealant is formulated to penetrate deep into the surface, providing a breathable silane/siloxane water repellent that helps inhibit efflorescence, lime, spalling, and other moisture damage.

This long-lasting pro-grade sealant is engineered with Micro-Lok, a proprietary ingredient that ensures sealer absorption and creates a long-lasting filmless hydrophobic barrier against weathering, salt, dirt, freezing temperatures, UV light, wind-driven rain, and other damaging elements. This makes RainguardPro MICRO-SEAL the ideal weatherproof sealer for all porous wood and masonry surfaces, including concrete, brick, pavers, wood, stone, unglazed/unpainted tile, and color integrated or unpainted stucco.

RainguardPro MICRO-SEAL is premixed for easy and convenient application, making it ready to use right out of the bottle. Before use, you can shake the bottle lightly to disperse any settled material. This impregnating wood and masonry waterproofer is perfect for small, medium, and large surfaces, and one gallon of the product can coat, seal, and protect up to 300 square feet. For a more cost-effective solution, you can try RainguardPro's concentrated and super concentrated formulations.

Seamlessly sealing wood and masonry surfaces has never been easier with RainguardPro MICRO-SEAL. Prior to application, you should protect anything you don't want to be sealed by moving or covering it with a tarp. You should also prepare the surface by removing dirt, oil, stains, etc., and filling cracks for best results. Using a foam brush, hand-pump sprayer, or airless sprayer, you can apply the sealer to the dry surface (coats vary per substrate) and let the MICRO-SEAL coating cure. Any overspray can be cleaned up with a clean damp cloth.

RainguardPro is a company that has been manufacturing architectural and industrial coatings since 1969. They designed their products to “wrap” the exterior of buildings and structures, and RainguardPro now brings this same technology to consumers in their ready-to-use and concentrated professional formulations. Their pro-grade waterproofing solutions are eco-friendly, making them safe for the applicator, end-user, and environment. With RainguardPro MICRO-SEAL, you can protect and extend the life of your project with confidence and ease.

4. Nano+ Poly Wood Sealant – Ultimate Waterproofing Solution

This water-based polyurethane wood finish is the ultimate solution for protecting high-traffic areas from wear and tear. It boasts an odorless formula that makes it perfect for use on wood siding, outdoor furniture, decks, fences, and even log homes. Unlike other sealers that merely form a topcoat, this protector penetrates below the surface to create a long-lasting, water-resistant shield around the wood.

The floor sealer applicator is a premium gloss that is ultra-low VOC, which makes it a great choice for enhancing the longevity of your exterior flooring. It can be safely applied around your home, vegetation, landscaping, or even over any water area. The waterproof sealer has ditched the traditional oil-based sealers and instead opted for a UV-stable coating option. The fast-drying liquid creates a flexible and breathable barrier that provides a no-fuss, easy clean-up with soap and water. This unique formula also allows the wood to grey naturally.

When you use Seal-Once's user-friendly wood sealers and stains, you can rest easy knowing that your lumber or concrete is protected against water damage. Our products are safe for pets, plants, and people, giving you peace of mind. With Seal-Once, you don't have to worry about harmful chemicals or fumes.

5. Dap 810 Winder Advanced Polymer Siding And Window Sealant, 10.1 Oz, Cartridge, Tan, Paste

Introducing the Advanced Polymer Formula Siding Sealant, a game-changing product that is designed to cater to all your siding needs. This advanced sealant features a polymer formula that delivers exceptional performance and durability on various siding materials including vinyl, fiber cement, aluminum, and wood.

The Advanced Polymer Formula Siding Sealant is specifically designed to be permanently flexible, allowing it to accommodate any expansion or contraction of the siding material without cracking or breaking. This feature ensures that your siding remains intact and protected from the elements, making it ideal for wet weather and low-temperature applications.

This sealant also boasts a paintable formula that allows you to customize your siding's color to your liking. Whether you want to match your siding's color or create a new look, this sealant will allow you to achieve the desired results.

The Advanced Polymer Formula Siding Sealant is formulated with virtually no VOCs, making it an eco-friendly option for interior and exterior use. It also has a low shrinkage rate, ensuring that it maintains its original shape and size over time.

In terms of performance, this sealant delivers exceptional results, thanks to its advanced polymer formula. It provides excellent adhesion, ensuring that your siding remains securely in place. It is also highly resistant to weathering, ensuring that your siding remains protected from the elements.

6. Seal-Once Nano Penetrating Wood Sealer – Premium Waterproof Sealant – 1 Gallon Clear Wood Sealant

Introducing a premium line of wood and concrete sealers from SEAL-ONCE, designed to provide superior protection against wear and tear in high traffic areas. This water-based sealer provides top-notch protection for various surfaces such as wood siding, log homes, swing sets, outdoor furniture, wooden decks and fences, and more.

Unlike many sealers that only form a topcoat, SEAL-ONCE wood sealant penetrates below the surface to create a long-lasting, water-resistant shield around the wood. This creates a superior water-resistant barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating the surface of the wood, thereby reducing the risk of damage caused by rot and decay.

Our premium gloss is ultra-low VOC, making it environmentally friendly and safe to use. It is also great for enhancing the extended life of your exterior flooring. The fast-drying liquid creates a flexible, breathable barrier that allows the wood to grey naturally, while still providing a UV-stable coating option.

Ditch the oil-based sealers and choose SEAL-ONCE's water-based waterproof sealer. The fast-drying liquid creates a flexible, breathable barrier that provides a no-fuss, easy clean-up with soap and water. This sealer also allows the wood to grey naturally and is ideal for use on a variety of surfaces.

SEAL-ONCE's user-friendly wood sealers and stains are an effective way to protect your lumber or concrete against water damage. Our clear sealant is odorless and easy to apply with our floor sealer applicator. It provides a long-lasting, water-resistant shield around the wood, making it ideal for high traffic areas.

7. Rust-Oleum 250041h Ultimate Spar Urethane Water Based, Quart, Gloss Finish

Introducing a top-quality protective coating designed for outdoor wood surfaces, the Polyurethane Protective Finish from a trusted brand. This durable formula is perfect for a variety of wood surfaces including furniture, doors, windows, fences, trim and more.

The water-based formula is low odor, making it easy to apply and clean up with soap and water. It dries to the touch in just 30 minutes and covers up to 87 sq. ft. per quart. Recoating can be done after 2 hours, saving you time and effort.

This weather and UV-resistant top coat provides a crystal clear, glossy finish that creates a polished and clean look. Unlike other products on the market, this non-yellowing formula ensures that your wood looks great for longer, while also protecting against mold and mildew.

With outstanding UV and weather resistance, you can rest assured that your outdoor wood surfaces will remain protected from the harsh elements. The Polyurethane Protective Finish is specially designed to prevent yellowing, and its unique formula allows for a smooth application without visible brush strokes.

In addition, the extra fast-drying feature allows you to apply up to 3 coats in a day, making your project quicker and more efficient. This product is perfect for the DIY enthusiast or professional woodworker looking for a high-quality, protective coating that is easy to use and provides excellent results.

8. 1 Gal Flood Fld527 Honey Gold Cwf-Uv Clear Wood Finish

The CWF-UV is a top-quality protective coating designed for outdoor use only. Made in the United States, this translucent penetrating Acrylic Oil emulsion formula offers superior protection against moisture, mildew, and UV sun damage.

With its advanced formula, the CWF-UV is easy to apply and provides long-lasting protection for exterior surfaces. Whether you need to protect your deck, fence, or other outdoor structures, this product is ideal for the job.

One of the benefits of this product is that it can be cleaned up easily with soap and water. This means that you don't have to worry about using harsh chemicals or solvents to remove it from your tools or other surfaces.

To apply the CWF-UV, you can use a Synthetic brush, Roller, or Airless sprayer. This gives you flexibility and allows you to choose the best application method for your specific project.

9. Rust-Oleum Clear, Quart, 902 Wolman Classic Wood Preservative-Above Ground, 32 Fl Oz

The product being reviewed is a top-quality item that is designed for ease of use and is highly durable. This item is proudly manufactured in the United States, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. The product comes with a model number of 902, making it easy to identify and locate.

One of the key features of this product is its ease of use. It has been designed with the user in mind, ensuring that it is straightforward and intuitive to use. Whether you are an experienced professional or a novice, you will find that this product is easy to get to grips with and will help you achieve your goals with ease.

In addition to being easy to use, this product is highly durable. It is built to last, with top-quality materials and expert craftsmanship ensuring that it can withstand even the toughest conditions. Whether you are using it in a professional setting or for personal use, you can rest assured that this product will stand the test of time.

This product is proudly manufactured in the United States, where it is subject to rigorous quality control standards. This ensures that every item that leaves the factory is of the highest quality, meeting or exceeding all relevant standards and regulations. You can trust that this product has been made with care and attention to detail, and that it will perform to the highest standards.

Finally, this product comes with a model number of 902, making it easy to identify and locate. This is a handy feature that will save you time and effort when searching for the product you need. With all of these features and benefits, it is easy to see why this product is such a popular choice among customers.

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

The K03601000 is a high-quality stain that is designed to provide exceptional protection against water and UV fading. This premium stain is made with durable materials that are built to last, ensuring that it will keep your outdoor surfaces looking great for years to come.

One of the standout features of this stain is its ability to repel water, which makes it an ideal choice for use on decks, patios, and other outdoor surfaces that are exposed to the elements. Additionally, the K03601000 is specially formulated to provide excellent UV fade protection, which helps to prevent your surfaces from becoming discolored or damaged over time.

Another benefit of this stain is its fast, even coverage. Thanks to its specially designed formula, the K03601000 can be applied quickly and easily, providing a smooth and consistent finish. This makes it an ideal choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts who want to achieve professional-grade results.

Best Exterior Sealant For Wood FAQs

Are there any eco-friendly or low-VOC exterior sealants for wood available?

Yes, there are eco-friendly and low-VOC exterior sealants available for wood. These sealants are designed to protect wood from moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors while minimizing their impact on the environment.

One option is water-based sealants, which are made with natural ingredients and have low or no VOCs. They are easy to apply, dry quickly, and offer good protection against weathering and fading.

Another option is natural oil-based sealants, which are made with plant-based oils and resins that penetrate deep into the wood to protect it from the inside out. They are also low-VOC and provide long-lasting protection against moisture and weathering.

It's important to note that some eco-friendly sealants may require more frequent reapplication than traditional sealants, but this is a small trade-off for the benefits they offer. Always read the label and follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.

Can exterior sealants be used on all types of wood, or are some better suited than others?

Exterior sealants can be used on most types of wood, but some types of wood may require specific types of sealants for better protection. Softwoods such as pine, cedar, and redwood are typically more porous and may require a sealant with higher penetration to provide adequate protection against moisture and UV rays. Hardwoods like oak, teak, and mahogany are denser and may require a sealant that provides a thicker coat to protect against wear and tear.

It's important to choose a sealant that is specifically formulated for exterior use to ensure it can withstand exposure to the elements. Look for sealants that offer UV protection and are resistant to fading, cracking, and peeling. Water-based and oil-based sealants are both suitable for exterior use, but oil-based sealants tend to provide more durable protection.

Before applying any sealant, make sure the wood is clean and dry to ensure the sealant can penetrate the wood properly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and reapplication to ensure the best possible protection for your wood.

How do I properly apply an exterior sealant to wood for the best results?

Applying an exterior sealant to wood is important to protect it from moisture, sun damage, and other environmental factors that can cause it to deteriorate over time. Here are the steps to properly apply an exterior sealant to wood for the best results:

1. Prepare the surface: Make sure the wood surface is clean, dry, and free of any debris. Sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots and create a smooth surface.

2. Choose the right sealant: Select a sealant that is appropriate for exterior use and suitable for the type of wood you are sealing. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure you have the right product for your project.

3. Apply the sealant: Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the sealant in long, even strokes, working with the grain of the wood. Make sure to apply the sealant evenly and avoid overlapping or leaving drips.

4. Allow to dry: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time, and avoid exposing the wood to moisture or direct sunlight while the sealant is drying.

5. Apply a second coat: For best results, apply a second coat of sealant after the first coat has dried completely. This will help to ensure maximum protection and a long-lasting finish.

By following these steps, you can properly apply an exterior sealant to wood and achieve the best results for your project.

How long do exterior sealants for wood typically last?

The lifespan of exterior sealants for wood depends on several factors, including the type of sealant used, the quality of the wood, and the climate in which the wood is exposed. In general, most exterior sealants for wood are designed to last for several years, with some lasting up to 10 years or more. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of the sealant will gradually degrade over time, especially if it is exposed to harsh weather conditions, UV radiation, or moisture. To ensure the longevity of the sealant, it is recommended to apply a fresh coat every few years or as needed. Additionally, regular maintenance, such as cleaning and sanding, can help prolong the life of the sealant and protect the wood from damage. Overall, the lifespan of exterior sealants for wood can vary, but with proper care and maintenance, they can provide long-lasting protection for your outdoor wood surfaces.

What are the top-rated exterior sealants for wood?

Wooden structures and furniture require proper sealing to protect them from external elements that can cause damage. Choosing the right sealant for your wood exterior can be daunting, but some sealants stand out from the rest.

One of the top-rated exterior sealants for wood is the Olympic Stain Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer. It not only seals the wood but also adds color to it, providing a beautiful finish. It's also water-repellent and protects against UV rays.

Another excellent option is the Thompson's WaterSeal Advanced Natural Wood Protector, which provides a clear finish and is formulated to resist mildew growth and fading. It also offers water and UV resistance.

The DEFY Extreme Exterior Wood Stain is also a popular choice for its water and UV resistance, and its ability to enhance the natural beauty of the wood.

Lastly, the Cabot Australian Timber Oil is a high-quality sealant that penetrates deep into the wood, protecting it from harsh weather conditions. It also adds a beautiful finish and enhances the wood's natural grain.

Overall, choosing the right sealant for your wood exterior depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the level of protection and finish you desire before making a purchase.

What criteria should I consider when choosing an exterior sealant for wood?

When selecting an exterior sealant for wood, several criteria should be considered to ensure the best product is chosen for the specific project. First, it is important to consider the type of wood being sealed, as some sealants may not be suitable for certain types of wood. The climate and weather conditions in the area where the wood is located should also be taken into account, as this can affect the durability and longevity of the sealant. Additionally, the level of protection needed should be considered, as some sealants provide more protection against moisture and UV rays than others. It is also important to choose a sealant that is easy to apply and maintain, as this can save time and money in the long run. Finally, the cost of the sealant should be balanced against its effectiveness and durability to ensure the best value for the investment. By considering these factors, homeowners can choose the best exterior sealant for their specific wood sealing needs.

What types of exterior sealants are available for wood, and how do they differ?

There are several types of exterior sealants available for wood, each with their own unique properties and benefits.

One common type of sealant is oil-based, which penetrates deep into the wood and provides a natural finish. This type of sealant is best for protecting against water damage, but may require regular reapplication and can darken the wood over time.

Another popular option is water-based sealants, which are easy to clean up and provide a clear finish. They are also resistant to UV rays and do not yellow over time.

Acrylic sealants are another option, which offer durability and a glossy finish. They are also resistant to mildew and can be easily cleaned with soap and water.

Silicone sealants are best for areas that require flexibility, such as joints and seams. They are also water-resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures.

Ultimately, the best type of exterior sealant for wood will depend on the specific needs of the project and the desired finish. It is important to carefully consider the properties of each type of sealant before making a decision.

Which exterior sealants are best for preventing mold and mildew growth on wood?

When it comes to preventing mold and mildew growth on wood, choosing the right exterior sealant is crucial. There are several options available in the market, but the best ones are those that contain mold and mildew inhibitors.

Silicone sealants are known for their excellent water resistance and durability. However, they are not the best option for preventing mold and mildew growth. On the other hand, acrylic sealants are designed to resist mold and mildew, making them a better option.

Another popular choice is polyurethane sealants. These sealants provide excellent protection against moisture and are resistant to mold and mildew. However, they require more maintenance than acrylic sealants.

In addition to selecting the right sealant, it is essential to ensure that the wood is properly cleaned and prepared before applying the sealant. This includes removing any existing mold or mildew and allowing the wood to dry completely.

Overall, when choosing an exterior sealant to prevent mold and mildew growth on wood, it is important to select a product that contains mold and mildew inhibitors and to properly prepare the wood surface before applying the sealant.

Which exterior sealants are best for protecting wood from water damage?

There are several types of exterior sealants that are effective in protecting wood from water damage. One of the most popular options is a silicone-based sealant, which is highly effective in repelling water and preventing moisture from penetrating the wood. Another effective option is an acrylic-based sealant, which creates a strong barrier against water and is also resistant to UV rays. Polyurethane sealants are also a good choice for protecting wood from water damage, as they are durable and long-lasting. It is important to choose a sealant that is specifically designed for exterior use, as these products are formulated to withstand the elements and provide long-lasting protection. Additionally, it is important to properly prepare the wood surface before applying the sealant, to ensure that it adheres properly and provides maximum protection.

Which exterior sealants are best for UV protection?

When it comes to UV protection for the exterior surfaces of buildings, it is essential to choose the right sealant to ensure longevity and protection. The best exterior sealants for UV protection are those that contain UV stabilizers, which help to prevent damage from UV rays.

One of the most popular sealants for UV protection is silicone. Silicone sealants are highly resistant to UV rays and can remain effective for up to 20 years. They are also very flexible, making them ideal for use on surfaces that are subject to movement or expansion.

Another option is polyurethane sealants, which are also highly resistant to UV rays and can withstand extreme temperatures. They are ideal for use on metal or concrete surfaces and can provide long-lasting protection against the elements.

Acrylic sealants are another option for UV protection, but they are not as durable as silicone or polyurethane sealants. They are best used on surfaces that are not subject to a lot of movement or exposure to harsh weather conditions.

Ultimately, the best exterior sealant for UV protection will depend on the specific application and the conditions it will be exposed to. It is important to consult with a professional to determine the best sealant for your needs.