Your wood deck is your home’s outdoor extension. With just a few careful modifications and furniture, it can become an extra living space for you to enjoy. However, frequent exposure to rain, sun, and other natural elements can take a toll on your deck’s appearance and integrity. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain it by sealing it with the best wood deck sealer.
When choosing the best wood deck sealer, you should consider factors like the wood type, age, and location of your deck. Different sealers work better for different wood types and levels of exposure to the elements.
One key factor to look for in a sealant is its ability to repel water. Water is the primary enemy of wood, causing it to rot, warp and split, especially in damp environments. A quality sealer will penetrate the wood to protect it from moisture and prevent mold, mildew, and other fungi that can destroy it.
Another vital factor is the sealant’s UV protection. Direct sunlight can fade and discolor wood surfaces, ruining their appearance over time. A sealer with UV inhibitors can block the sun’s harmful rays and keep your deck looking great for longer.
There are two primary types of deck sealers: water-based and oil-based. Water-based sealers are environmentally friendly, quick-drying, and easy to clean. They are suitable for both new and old woods. On the other hand, oil-based sealers penetrate more deeply into the wood, providing a more robust barrier against moisture and UV rays.
Now let’s look at the five best wood deck sealers in the market.
Ready Seal 512 5 Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer
Ready Seal 512 is an oil-based sealer that highlights the natural beauty of your wood. It requires no primer or pickling and can be applied to damp or dry wood surfaces. This sealer is easy to apply with a sprayer, brush, or roller. It penetrates deep into the wood, providing a waterproof and UV-resistant surface. It comes in a five-gallon pail that can cover up to 750 square feet, making it an excellent value for money.
Thompson’s WaterSeal Advanced Natural Wood Protector
Thompson’s WaterSeal Advanced Natural Wood Protector is a water-based sealer that provides a clear finish that resists mildew and UV rays. It can be applied to both wet and dry wood surfaces and dries within two hours. It features an excellent resistance to water, stains, and scratches, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. This sealer comes in a one-gallon can that can cover up to 150 square feet.
DEFY Extreme 1 Gallon Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain
DEFY Extreme is an excellent water-based deck sealer that comes in a semi-transparent finish that accentuates the wood’s natural grain. It’s ideal for use on pressure-treated pine, cedar, redwood, and other porous woods. It’s resistant to fading, mildew, and mold growth, making it an excellent choice for humid and wet locations. This sealer is easy to apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer. One gallon can cover up to 100 square feet.
Olympic Stain Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer
Olympic Stain Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer is an oil-based sealer that provides excellent waterproofing and UV protection. It’s available in several finishes, including clear, transparent, semi-transparent, and solid. It penetrates deep into the wood to protect it from moisture and sun damage. It’s suitable for use on new or previously stained or painted wood. This sealer comes in a one-gallon can that can cover up to 250-350 square feet.
Cabot Australian Timber Oil
Cabot Australian Timber Oil is an excellent oil-based sealer with a unique blend of linseed oil and tung oil. It penetrates deep into the wood to protect it from moisture, UV rays, and mildew growth. This sealer is suitable for use on all types of wood and is available in several colors that highlight the natural beauty of wood. It’s easy to apply and maintain and comes in a one-gallon can that can cover up to 400-600 square feet.
Conclusion
Wood decks are a significant investment that requires regular maintenance to remain in top condition. A quality wood deck sealer will protect your wood from moisture, UV rays, and fungi growth, extending its longevity and keeping it looking great for longer. Keep in mind that the best wood deck sealer for your deck depends on factors like the wood type, deck age, and location. Consider these factors when selecting the best wood deck sealer for your needs.
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