10 Best Oil Based Fence Stains 2025 in the United States

The Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for wood offers several advantages for those looking to protect and enhance their wooden fences. Its oil-based formula does not require a primer and can be applied using various methods like a sprayer, roller, or brush. This product is particularly user-friendly as it does not need back brushing, blending seamlessly without leaving runs, laps, or streaks.

It is also versatile in terms of application temperature and does not require dilution or thinning for spray applications, making it a 'goof proof' option for DIY enthusiasts. Moreover, it is UV resistant, which helps in prolonging the color and life of the wood surface. The stain reaches its true color in approximately 14 days, starting darker initially and gradually lightening to its final shade of natural cedar.

However, one must be aware that it cannot be applied over painted or newly stained surfaces, as sealed surfaces inhibit penetration. In terms of durability, the product is highly rated by customers, holding a 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 8,575 ratings, indicating strong performance and satisfaction. Its drying time might be a concern for those needing a quicker turnaround, and maintenance could be required periodically to ensure the wood remains protected and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, the volume of 5 gallons might be excessive for smaller projects, and the container is subject to recycling fees in certain states. This stain is ideal for users seeking an easy-to-apply, durable, and visually appealing finish for their exterior wood projects, especially large-scale ones.

The Olympic Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer in Canyon Brown is a versatile option for outdoor wood structures. It offers a transparent finish, allowing the natural grain of the wood to show through while adding a rich, warm brown hue. One of its standout features is the durability, thanks to advanced SunBlock UV defense and enhanced waterproofing, which protect the wood from weather damage and fading. This product also includes Scuff Guard technology, making it resistant to scuffs and easy to clean with just soap and water, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals.

Drying time is relatively quick; you can clean and stain on the same day even in cooler temperatures down to 35 degrees Fahrenheit, and the deck will be ready for rain in just 8 hours. This can be a huge time-saver. However, the product's weight and size (5 gallons, nearly 46 pounds) may make it cumbersome to handle, especially for smaller projects or for users not familiar with such large containers.

Additionally, while the transparent nature of the stain may be great for those who prefer a natural look, it might not be suitable for those seeking more opaque coverage. The maintenance is straightforward, but periodic reapplication may be necessary to maintain the protective qualities. This stain and sealer is an excellent choice for anyone looking to preserve and beautify their exterior wood with minimal hassle, provided they can manage the large container.

The Ready Seal 115 Pecan Exterior Stain and Sealer is a versatile option for wood surfaces, boasting several standout features. Its opacity is high, ensuring a rich color that becomes true approximately 14 days after application. One of its prominent strengths is its ease of application – it requires no primer, back brushing, or wet-line application, making it almost foolproof to apply. This can be done with a sprayer, roller, or brush, which adds to its user-friendliness.

The product is designed to blend itself, reducing the risk of laps, runs, or streaks, and can be applied at any temperature, offering flexibility for users. Additionally, it requires no diluting or thinning before spray applications, simplifying the process further. The stain is also mold, mildew, and UV resistant, contributing to its durability and long-term maintenance of wood surfaces.

However, the drying time may be a consideration, as the true color settles over a two-week period, which might be longer than some users prefer. Also, it's important to note that it cannot be applied over painted or newly-stained surfaces, limiting its use in certain scenarios. The product isn't available in California and carries a PaintCare recycling fee in some states, which could be a minor inconvenience. Despite these drawbacks, the Ready Seal 115 is a solid choice for those seeking a durable, easy-to-apply exterior wood stain and sealer, especially for first-time users or those looking for a hassle-free application process.