10 Best Cedar Deck Sealers 2025 in the United States

The Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer is an oil-based product designed specifically for wood surfaces. It stands out for its easy application process, requiring no primer, back brushing, or special temperature conditions for proper application. This 'goof-proof' application is ideal for users who may not have extensive experience with sealing decks, as it prevents laps, runs, and streaks.

Additionally, it can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush, adding to its versatility. The product offers strong UV resistance, which helps in protecting the wood from sun damage, enhancing the longevity of the finish. Water resistance is another key feature, providing a robust barrier against moisture, which can be critical for maintaining the integrity of a cedar deck.

However, it's worth noting that the true color of the sealer only becomes apparent approximately 14 days after application, which may require some patience. The sealer also cannot be applied over painted or newly stained surfaces, as they inhibit penetration. This may limit its use for some projects. This sealer is especially suitable for those seeking an easy-to-apply, UV and water-resistant product for cedar decks, provided they can accommodate its specific application requirements.

Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer is a versatile product ideal for protecting cedar decks and other wooden structures exposed to moisture. One of its strongest attributes is its multi-functional nature, serving as both a wood stain and sealer. This can save users time and effort, as they won't need to apply multiple products. The sealer offers UV protection, which is crucial for preventing damage from sunlight and helps maintain the wood's natural color. It is also water-resistant, making it suitable for areas near water bodies like boat docks or decks that face high moisture levels.

The formula is designed to penetrate the wood deeply, creating a durable barrier that extends the life of the wood. Additionally, it is safe for use near aquatic life, which is a significant ecological advantage. However, while it boasts of being easy to apply and clean up with soap and water, some users might find the one-gallon container insufficient for larger projects. It might require multiple purchases to cover extensive areas, potentially increasing the cost. Furthermore, its water-based formula, while low in VOCs and environmentally friendly, may not provide the same level of long-term protection as some oil-based alternatives.

For those prioritizing eco-friendliness and ease of use, this product is a solid choice, but those seeking maximum durability might need to weigh their options carefully.

Ready Seal 120 Redwood Exterior Stain and Sealer is designed specifically for wood surfaces like cedar decks. One of its biggest advantages is ease of use—it requires no primer, no back brushing, and doesn’t need thinning before spraying. This makes it very beginner-friendly and helps avoid common application problems like runs or streaks. The sealer is oil-based and flat finish, providing a natural redwood color that darkens initially and settles into its true shade after about two weeks. It offers good protection against UV rays, mildew, and mold, which are important for outdoor wood exposed to sun and moisture. Water resistance is also decent, helping to prevent water damage and warping over time. Coverage is reasonable at around 125 square feet per gallon, which suits small to medium projects.

It’s important not to apply this product over painted or freshly stained surfaces since it seals tightly and won’t penetrate well afterward. Some users might find that the flat finish is less glossy than other options, which could be a matter of personal preference. Also, while Ready Seal performs well, heavier foot traffic areas or extremely harsh weather might require more frequent reapplication compared to thicker sealers.

This sealer serves as a solid choice for homeowners seeking a straightforward, effective way to protect and beautify cedar decks without complicated preparation or application steps.