10 Best Stains For Fences 2025 in the United States

The Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer is an oil-based stain designed specifically for wood surfaces like fences. One of its major strengths is its ease of application. It doesn't require a primer or any special preparation, and it can be applied with a sprayer, roller, or brush. Users will appreciate that it doesn’t need back brushing and it won’t leave any runs, laps, or streaks, making it quite user-friendly and 'goof proof'.

It works well in various temperature ranges and doesn't need diluting or thinning, adding to its convenience. The product offers UV resistance, which helps protect the wood from sun damage. The 'Natural Cedar' color is initially quite dark but reaches its true shade in about 14 days, which may require some patience.

While it excels in being user-friendly and providing UV protection, one potential drawback is that it cannot be applied over painted or newly stained surfaces as these inhibit penetration. This product is best suited for homeowners looking for an easy-to-apply, durable stain and sealer for their wooden fences that offers long-lasting protection and a natural cedar finish.

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain is a versatile product suitable for various exterior surfaces including wood, concrete, and brick. The clear stain type ensures that while the grain is hidden, the texture of the wood is still visible, enhancing the natural appearance but without changing the color.

It offers robust UV protection through advanced polymers, which helps maintain the appearance of your fence or other surfaces year-round by resisting fading and UV damage. One of its standout features is its waterproofing capability, ensuring your surfaces are protected from water damage, which is essential for longevity.

Additionally, this stain is designed to be easy to apply, making it accessible for users who may not have extensive experience with staining projects. Given its high customer rating and ease of use, it is a reliable choice for users seeking a clear stain to protect and enhance their exterior wood and other surfaces.

The Ready Seal 115 Pecan Exterior Stain and Sealer is an oil-based wood stain designed specifically for outdoor wood surfaces like fences. It features a 'goof-proof' application process, allowing use of a sprayer, roller, or brush without worrying about runs, streaks, or the need for back brushing. This makes it especially convenient for quick and easy staining jobs. The stain is semi-transparent, allowing wood grain to show through while providing decent coverage of about 125 square feet per gallon.

The stain appears darkest immediately after application and then settles into its true pecan color after about two weeks. It includes mildew and mold resistance along with UV protection, helping to keep your fence looking fresh and protected from sun damage and weather effects over time. The product dries to a flat finish, which suits those who prefer a natural-looking wood surface.

It is not suitable for use over painted or newly stained surfaces, so it is best for bare wood. The stain does not require thinning, simplifying application but meaning the consistency cannot be adjusted for different tools. Overall, this stain provides solid protection and enhances natural wood beauty without complex preparation or application steps, making it a strong choice for fences and other exterior wood projects.