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10 Best Sealer For Cedar 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer - Waterproof Sealant - Wood Stain and Sealer in One - 5 Gallon & Bronze Cedar

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,157
Water Resistance
Durability
Finish

Most important from
2216 reviews

Water Resistance
Provides excellent water repellency, effectively protecting outdoor wood surfaces from moisture damage.
Durability
Demonstrates strong durability, with users optimistic about the advertised long-lasting protection over several years.
Finish
Delivers a smooth application with a clear, attractive finish that enhances the natural wood color without overpowering gloss.
Ease of Application
Easily cleans up with soap and water, making the process hassle-free and brush maintenance simple.

Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer is designed specifically for outdoor wood protection, making it a solid choice for sealing cedar, especially in harsh environments like near water. It acts as a sealer, stain, and finish combined, which simplifies the process by reducing the number of products you need. The water-based, polyurethane formula offers strong waterproofing and UV resistance, helping to preserve the natural bronze cedar color and prevent damage from sun, moisture, and saltwater spray.

This sealer penetrates deep into the wood fibers, creating a flexible, breathable barrier that can last up to 10 years on vertical surfaces and 6 years on horizontal ones, which speaks to its durability. Its natural satin finish keeps wood looking attractive without a heavy or glossy appearance. Another plus is its easy cleanup with just soap and water, along with being safe for pets and plants, which is great if you want an eco-friendly option.

The product comes in a large 5-gallon size that might be bulky or more than needed for small projects, and the weight (over 44 pounds) could make handling a bit challenging. This sealer is well-suited for outdoor cedar furniture, decks, and similar uses where long-lasting protection against weather and water is important, especially in marine or high-moisture settings.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,157
Water Resistance
Durability
Finish

Most important from
2216 reviews

Water Resistance
Provides excellent water repellency, effectively protecting outdoor wood surfaces from moisture damage.
Durability
Demonstrates strong durability, with users optimistic about the advertised long-lasting protection over several years.
Finish
Delivers a smooth application with a clear, attractive finish that enhances the natural wood color without overpowering gloss.
Ease of Application
Easily cleans up with soap and water, making the process hassle-free and brush maintenance simple.
#2

Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood

Rating
8.8
Type of Sealer
UV Protection
Water Resistance

Most important from
10486 reviews

Type of Sealer
The oil-based formula penetrates deeply into the wood, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting protection.
UV Protection
While the color selection may be limited, the available options provide effective UV protection and aesthetic appeal.
Water Resistance
The stain dries to the touch within hours and continues to protect the wood, with water beading up beautifully on the surface.
Durability
Reapplication is a breeze, with no need to strip the previous layer, making maintenance simple and cost-effective over time.
Ease of Application
Ready Seal 512 truly delivers on its promise of 'goof proof' application, soaking into the wood slowly and preventing unsightly runs and streaks.

The Ready Seal 512 is a 5-gallon natural cedar exterior stain and sealer that stands out for its user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for those looking to protect their wood surfaces. One of its primary strengths is the ease of application; it requires no primer and doesn't need back brushing, which minimizes the hassle during the application process. It can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush, and is designed to blend seamlessly without leaving runs or streaks. This 'goof proof' application method is particularly appealing for DIY enthusiasts or anyone new to wood sealing.

Another advantage is its strong UV protection and water resistance, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of cedar wood in outdoor conditions. The oil-based formula offers durability, allowing the finish to withstand various weather conditions over time.

The Ready Seal 512 is a solid choice for anyone looking to protect cedar wood with ease and durability. Its user-friendly nature and effective protection make it suitable for homeowners and DIYers alike.

Rating
8.8
Type of Sealer
UV Protection
Water Resistance

Most important from
10486 reviews

Type of Sealer
The oil-based formula penetrates deeply into the wood, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting protection.
UV Protection
While the color selection may be limited, the available options provide effective UV protection and aesthetic appeal.
Water Resistance
The stain dries to the touch within hours and continues to protect the wood, with water beading up beautifully on the surface.
Durability
Reapplication is a breeze, with no need to strip the previous layer, making maintenance simple and cost-effective over time.
Ease of Application
Ready Seal 512 truly delivers on its promise of 'goof proof' application, soaking into the wood slowly and preventing unsightly runs and streaks.
#3

Armstrong-Clark Armstrong Clark Deck and Wood Stain (5 Gallons, Cedar Semi-Transparent)

Rating
8.5
Type of Sealer
Durability
Finish

Most important from
129 reviews

Type of Sealer
Best oil-based stain ever used, perfect for refurbishing older decks.
Durability
Ages gracefully without peeling or flaking, making it easy to strip when needed.
Finish
One coat is enough for a beautiful finish on screen porches and fences.
Ease of Application
Offers fantastic protection and appearance, quick to prepare and apply.

The Armstrong-Clark Armstrong Clark Deck and Wood Stain in Cedar Semi-Transparent is an oil-based sealer designed for exterior wood surfaces. It is specifically formulated to condition and rejuvenate wood without causing peeling, cracking, or sticky residues. This makes it particularly durable and user-friendly.

The stain can be applied in direct sunlight and withstands rain one hour after absorption, simplifying the application process and reducing weather-related delays. Its coverage is quite extensive, ranging from 150 to 400 sq ft per gallon, depending on the type of wood and whether it's horizontal or vertical. This broad coverage makes it cost-effective for large projects.

The semi-transparent finish means the final color may vary significantly based on wood type and condition. This variability can be a downside for users seeking a consistent appearance. In summary, this stain is an excellent choice for those looking to rejuvenate and protect their wood surfaces with minimal hassle.

Rating
8.5
Type of Sealer
Durability
Finish

Most important from
129 reviews

Type of Sealer
Best oil-based stain ever used, perfect for refurbishing older decks.
Durability
Ages gracefully without peeling or flaking, making it easy to strip when needed.
Finish
One coat is enough for a beautiful finish on screen porches and fences.
Ease of Application
Offers fantastic protection and appearance, quick to prepare and apply.

Buying Guide for the Best Sealer For Cedar

Choosing the right sealer for your cedar wood is crucial to ensure its longevity and maintain its natural beauty. Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor furniture, decks, and siding due to its natural resistance to decay and insects. However, it still requires proper sealing to protect it from the elements and enhance its appearance. When selecting a sealer, consider the specific needs of your project, the environmental conditions, and the desired finish. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing a sealer for cedar wood.
Type of SealerThe type of sealer you choose is important because it determines the level of protection and the finish of your cedar wood. There are three main types: clear sealers, semi-transparent stains, and solid stains. Clear sealers provide minimal color change and allow the natural beauty of the wood to show through, but they offer less UV protection. Semi-transparent stains add a slight tint to the wood, enhancing its natural color while providing better UV protection. Solid stains offer the most protection and color, but they cover the wood grain more. Choose a type based on the level of protection you need and the look you want to achieve.
UV ProtectionUV protection is crucial for preventing the cedar wood from graying and deteriorating due to sun exposure. Sealers with UV inhibitors help maintain the wood's natural color and prolong its life. If your cedar wood is exposed to a lot of sunlight, opt for a sealer with high UV protection. For areas with less sun exposure, a sealer with moderate UV protection may suffice.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is essential to protect cedar wood from moisture, which can lead to warping, cracking, and mold growth. Sealers with high water resistance create a barrier that prevents water from penetrating the wood. If your cedar wood is in an area prone to rain or humidity, choose a sealer with excellent water resistance. For drier climates, a sealer with moderate water resistance may be adequate.
DurabilityDurability refers to how long the sealer will last before needing reapplication. High-quality sealers can last several years, while others may need to be reapplied annually. Consider the maintenance level you are willing to commit to. If you prefer low maintenance, choose a durable sealer that offers long-lasting protection. For projects where you don't mind frequent upkeep, a less durable sealer may be acceptable.
FinishThe finish of the sealer affects the appearance of your cedar wood. Options include matte, satin, and glossy finishes. Matte finishes provide a natural look with minimal shine, satin finishes offer a slight sheen that enhances the wood's appearance, and glossy finishes provide a high shine that can make the wood look more polished. Choose a finish based on your aesthetic preference and the look you want to achieve for your project.
Ease of ApplicationEase of application is important, especially if you plan to apply the sealer yourself. Some sealers are easier to apply than others, requiring fewer coats and less drying time. Look for user-friendly products with clear instructions. If you are a DIY enthusiast, choose a sealer that is easy to apply and doesn't require professional equipment. For more complex projects, you might consider hiring a professional to ensure the best results.

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