10 Best Fence Stains 2026 in the United States

Ready Seal 512 is an oil-based exterior stain and sealer designed specifically for wood surfaces, making it a good choice for fences. Its natural cedar color offers a warm, classic look, though the color is darkest when first applied and takes about two weeks to settle into its true shade. This might require some patience if you want to see the final appearance before finishing. The stain is semi-transparent (not fully opaque), which helps show the natural wood grain while still providing protection.

One of the biggest advantages of this product is its easy application. You can use a sprayer, roller, or brush without needing to thin it or back-brush, and it won’t leave streaks, runs, or lap marks. This "goof-proof" feature is great for people who want a neat finish without fuss. It also works well in any temperature, so you don’t have to wait for perfect weather to apply it.

Durability-wise, Ready Seal includes UV resistance, which helps protect your fence from sun damage and fading over time. It also acts as a sealer, preventing water damage. However, you should not apply it over painted or recently stained surfaces, as it won’t penetrate properly on sealed wood. This means it’s best for raw wood or surfaces previously treated with Ready Seal or similar products. Drying time is moderate; the surface dries quickly enough for handling, but the full color and sealing effect develop over about 14 days, so plan for a bit of curing time before heavy use.

If you want a wood stain that's easy to apply, provides solid UV and water protection, and enhances the natural look of wood with a warm cedar tone, Ready Seal 512 is a strong candidate. Just remember it’s not suitable for painted or freshly stained fences and requires patience to see its true color.

Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer in Chestnut Brown is a solid choice for those looking to protect and enhance their outdoor wood. One of its key strengths is its waterproofing ability, which helps prevent water damage and maintain the wood's beauty over time. The transparent finish allows the natural wood texture to show through, adding a touch of color without completely covering the wood grain. This makes it ideal for users who want a natural look with added protection.

Another advantage is its fade-resistant finish, thanks to advanced polymers that resist UV damage, ensuring the color stays vibrant year-round. This stain is also user-friendly, as it can be applied to both damp and dry wood, simplifying the application process. It exceeds industry standards for waterproofing, providing extra assurance of its quality and effectiveness.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The product is on the heavier side, at around 21 kilograms for a 5-gallon pail, which might be cumbersome for some users to handle. Also, while its coverage is extensive—ranging from 750 to 2000 square feet per gallon—this can vary greatly depending on the wood type and condition. This product is well-suited for those needing a durable, UV-resistant, and easy-to-apply stain for their outdoor wood projects, especially where maintaining a natural wood appearance is desired.

The Wood Defender Transparent Fence Stain in Black Walnut enhances the natural beauty of wood fences while providing protection. This transparent oil-based stain uses ultra-fine pigments to highlight the wood grain, delivering a smooth, translucent finish. Its black walnut color adds a warm, rich tone that preserves the wood’s natural character. Designed for easy application, one coat goes on smoothly without runs or drips, making it suitable for DIY users. It covers about 100-150 square feet per gallon on unsealed wood, so the 5-gallon size is ideal for larger projects.

A key feature of this stain is its UV resistance, which helps protect wood from sun damage and fading over time. Since it is transparent, it may not fully conceal imperfections or weathered wood as a more opaque stain might. This product works especially well for new cedar or redwood fences when maintaining and showcasing the wood’s natural look is a priority.

For those seeking solid color coverage or thicker protection, other stains might be more appropriate. However, this stain is a strong choice for anyone wanting a natural, UV-protected finish that is easy to apply.