10 Best Wood Fence Sealers 2025 in the United States

Ready Seal 515 is an oil-based wood stain and sealer designed for exterior wood surfaces, especially suitable for fences, decks, and siding. One of its biggest strengths is the ease of application—it doesn’t require primer, back brushing, or thinning, and can be applied using a brush, roller, or sprayer without worrying about runs or streaks. It’s also flexible with temperature during application, which is great if you live in a place with variable weather.

The stain is water-resistant, rainproof, and offers solid protection against UV rays, mildew, and mold, helping wood last longer outdoors without fading or deteriorating. The color deepens over about two weeks, starting darker and settling into its true pecan shade, which gives a nice natural look. Durability is another plus, as it seals wood strongly without needing frequent reapplications. The coverage is quite good, about 625 square feet per 5-gallon pail, making it cost-effective for larger projects.

On the downside, it’s not suitable for surfaces that are already painted or recently stained, so it works best on bare wood. Because it’s oil-based, cleanup requires solvents rather than soap and water, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users. The finish is flat, which looks natural but might not appeal to those wanting a glossy or shiny finish. In summary, Ready Seal 515 is a reliable choice for homeowners looking for a simple, no-fuss wood sealer that protects well against outdoor elements while enhancing wood’s natural beauty.

The Ready Seal 545 Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood in Burnt Hickory is an oil-based, easy-to-apply sealer designed for wood surfaces. One of its main strengths is that it requires no primer and can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush without the need for back brushing, ensuring a smooth, streak-free finish. This makes the application process straightforward and less time-consuming. The product is also versatile in terms of application temperature, which can be a convenient feature for users in varying climates.

Additionally, it blends itself, eliminating issues with runs or laps during application. However, the product must be used on untreated wood, as it won't penetrate surfaces that have been previously painted or stained, which could limit its use for some users. It also takes about 14 days to reach its true color, which may require some patience from the user.

The 5-gallon size is suitable for large projects, but the weight of 38 pounds might be cumbersome for some users to handle. This wood sealer is ideal for someone looking for a straightforward application process and a natural oil-based finish, provided the wood surface is untreated.

The Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer is an oil-based product designed specifically for wood surfaces. It's highly praised for being easy to apply as it requires no primer, back brushing, or thinning. It can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush in any temperature, and it blends itself without leaving runs, laps, or streaks, making the application 'goof proof.' This product is particularly beneficial due to its UV resistance, which helps protect the wood from sun damage.

However, it's important to note that it should not be applied over painted or newly stained surfaces, as sealed surfaces inhibit penetration. The product's durability is suggested by its long-lasting finish and protection, though individual results might vary. The biggest drawback might be the initial dark appearance right after application, but it reaches its true color in about 14 days.

This sealer is well-suited for users looking for an easy-to-apply, durable, and UV-protecting solution for wood fences or other exterior wood surfaces.