10 Best Deck Sealers 2025 in the United States

Ready Seal 515 is an oil-based wood stain and sealer designed for exterior wood surfaces, making it a strong candidate for protecting decks. One of its biggest advantages is its easy, 'goof-proof' application — you can use a sprayer, roller, or brush without worrying about runs, streaks, or the need for back brushing. It also doesn't require thinning or special temperature conditions, which simplifies the staining process for non-professionals.

The sealer provides good protection with UV resistance and mildew and mold resistance, helping your deck withstand sun damage and moisture issues over time. It is water-resistant and rainproof, adding durability to the wood against weather elements. The stain reaches its true color around two weeks after application, starting darker initially, which is helpful to know for aesthetics. Coverage is solid, approximately 625 square feet per 5-gallon pail, making it cost-effective for larger projects.

It is important to apply it only on bare wood—not over painted or freshly stained surfaces—as it seals the wood tightly and doesn't allow penetration afterward. The finish is flat, which some may prefer for a natural look but might not suit those wanting a shinier appearance. The product’s no-back-brushing and self-blending nature contribute to a smooth drying process. Ready Seal 515 offers strong protection and ease of use, especially suited for homeowners looking to maintain the natural color and durability of their wood decks with minimal hassle.

The Ready Seal 120 Redwood Exterior Stain and Sealer is a convenient choice for wood decks thanks to its easy application and good protective features. It doesn’t require a primer or back brushing, which makes applying it less of a hassle, and you can use a sprayer, roller, or brush. One nice feature is that it dries without runs, streaks, or lap marks, even if applied at different temperatures.

The sealer is oil-based and offers UV resistance plus mildew and mold protection, helping to keep your wood looking good and protected against sun damage and moisture-related issues. It also seals well to prevent water from penetrating, which is key for durability. The finish is flat with a rich redwood color that starts dark but settles into its true shade over about two weeks. Coverage is decent at around 125 square feet per gallon, which is typical for sealers in this category.

Ready Seal shouldn't be used over painted or recently stained surfaces because it prevents further penetration. While the product is quite durable, the drying time before the color settles is a bit long compared to some other sealers. This product is ideal for homeowners looking for a straightforward, reliable sealer that simplifies the application process and provides solid protection against UV rays and mildew, making it suitable for exterior wood decks exposed to the elements. If you want a no-fuss sealer that balances ease of use with effective protection, this product fits well.

The Ready Seal 545 Exterior Stain and Sealer is an oil-based product designed for wood surfaces, available in a 5-gallon container with a Burnt Hickory finish. Its ease of application is a key strength, requiring no primer or back brushing. It can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush without causing runs, laps, or streaks, making it user-friendly for those with little experience in applying sealers.

The product does not require diluting or thinning prior to application, saving time and effort. It is designed to blend itself without needing a wet-line application and can be applied under any temperature conditions, adding to its flexibility and convenience. This sealer is also noted for its coverage and the natural finish it provides over wood surfaces.

It takes approximately 14 days to reach its true color, so some patience is required. It's important not to apply it over painted or newly stained surfaces, as sealed surfaces will inhibit penetration. The product has good customer reviews, with a 4.5 out of 5-star rating, indicating general satisfaction among users. Those looking for a straightforward, easy-to-apply deck sealer that provides a natural look to wood surfaces may find this product suitable.