10 Best Deck Stain Sealers 2025 in the United States

The Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer is an oil-based stain designed for wood surfaces. It is particularly noted for its ease of application, being 'goof proof' and requiring no primer, back brushing, or special application techniques. This makes it very user-friendly, as it can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush without worrying about runs or streaks, and it can be applied in any temperature range.

This product also has built-in UV protection, which is a valuable feature for protecting wood from sun damage. Moreover, it blends itself and reaches its true color in about 14 days, ensuring a consistent finish without the need for a wet-line application. The stain is available in a natural cedar color, which is popular for outdoor wood projects.

A limitation is that it should not be applied over painted or newly stained surfaces as it requires bare wood for proper penetration. The environmental impact is also something to consider, especially in states with PaintCare recycling fees. This stain and sealer is highly effective for those looking for a straightforward, durable, and UV-protective wood treatment, but care must be taken to apply it correctly and only to suitable surfaces.

Thompson's WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain in clear offers a versatile solution for protecting various outdoor surfaces including wood, concrete, and brick. Its primary advantage is its strong water resistance, effectively keeping these surfaces dry and protected from moisture damage. The clear finish is designed to maintain the natural appearance of the material, although it will hide the grain slightly while preserving the texture.

This product also boasts UV protection, which helps prevent fading and sun damage, making it a good choice for areas exposed to sunlight. The one-coat application is straightforward and user-friendly, making it suitable even for those not experienced with staining and sealing projects. However, the clear stain lacks color options, which might be a downside for users looking to enhance their surfaces with a specific hue.

The Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer is a versatile product designed to protect outdoor wooden structures from the elements. One of its key strengths is the dual functionality, acting both as a stain and a sealer, which simplifies the application process. It offers strong UV protection, making it ideal for sunny outdoor areas, and its water-resistant properties make it perfect for wood exposed to constant moisture, such as boat docks or outdoor furniture near bodies of water.

Additionally, the fast-drying formula penetrates deep into the wood, creating a durable and breathable barrier that helps preserve the wood's natural color and extends its life. This water-based sealer has ultra-low VOC content, making it environmentally friendly and safe for aquatic life, pets, and people. It also allows for easy clean-up with soap and water. On the downside, as a clear sealer, it offers limited color options compared to tinted stains. Its durability is impressive, but regular reapplication may be necessary to maintain optimal protection in highly exposed areas.

The product is relatively easy to apply, but ensuring thorough coverage can be time-consuming due to the need to penetrate deeply into the wood. This wood sealer is best suited for users looking to protect wooden structures near water or in sunny outdoor environments while being mindful of environmental impacts.