Best Clear Deck Sealer for Wood Decks in 2026: Expert Reviewed
Here at DeckStainHelp.com, we are proud of the fact that we are the Internet’s number one reference for your deck stain opinions and reviews. We thank you for your continued support. Clear deck sealers continue to be a great option for protecting your wood deck from water damage, but unfortunately, do not provide any protection against UV rays and graying/wood darkening. If you have used clear deck sealers, we would like to hear what you think, so feel free to leave a comment below and pictures of your completed projects if you have them.
- Clear deck sealers provide excellent water protection but lack the pigment needed to defend against UV rays and graying.
- Top picks like Defy Extreme Clear, Armstrong-Clark, and the TWP 100 and 1500 Series offer deep-penetrating moisture defense for most climates.
- For both water and UV protection with a natural look, a semi-transparent deck stain in a natural tone is a smarter choice than a clear sealer.
- Plan to reapply clear deck sealer once a year and always prep your deck properly before application for the best results.
Best Clear Deck Sealer for Wood Decks in 2026
Ready to find the best deck sealer for your patio? Take a closer look at our top picks for clear wood deck sealers, and leave any questions you might have in the comments below.
- Defy Extreme Clear: This clear deck stain is a favorite of ours. It’s also one of the best wood deck sealers on the market because its penetrating formula soaks deeply into wooden boards and leverages zinc oxide to protect against moisture, mold, mildew, pests, and UV damage.
- Armstrong-Clark Transparent Wood Stain: Armstrong-Clark’s clear deck stain defends against moisture and sunlight to keep your deck in tip-top shape all year. The penetrating sealant offers enhanced longevity and is well-suited to areas that receive heavy rain or snowfall.
- TWP 100 Series Clear Stain: TWP’s 100 Series Clear Stain goes on easily, requires minimal maintenance, and helps protect and preserve your wooden deck boards from moisture damage. The penetrating product absorbs deeply into your deck, sealing the wood pores and protecting the boards in even the coldest climates.
- TWP 1500 Series Clear Stain and Preservative: Another excellent TWP product, the 1500 Series Clear Stain and Preservative is an EPA-registered wood preservative that works hard to protect your deck from UV damage, mold, mildew, and moisture. At the same time, it slows drawing and minimizes the risk of cracking or warping, even in colder areas.
Clear Deck Sealers and Stains for Exterior Wood
It is no secret that protecting a wood deck with a water-repellent sealer is vital to its integrity and lifespan. Clear deck sealers leave the wood looking natural which may appeal to the deck owner. Without a doubt, a natural-looking wood deck is a thing of beauty.
Deck sealers do give adequate water protection by locking out moisture. This is important to the wood’s lifespan. When water is absorbed into the wood it swells and when it dries up it shrinks. This continuous swelling and shrinking eventually begins to crack, split, and warp the wood. A clear wood sealer will stop this water damage from happening.
Another enemy to a wood deck is the sun. Harsh UV rays turn the wood fibers gray and also cause warping and splitting of the wood. The problem with clear deck sealers is that they lack the pigment to protect against sun damage. So although a clear deck sealer will give a deck great water protection it will not protect against sun damage.
This is without a doubt a huge disadvantage when using clear deck sealers. The best way to keep a natural look and give the wood deck both water and sun protection is to use a semi-transparent deck stain in a natural color. The wood grain is still allowed to show through and with only a little bit of tone or color a wood deck can still look very natural, yet the deck stain has enough pigment to give adequate sun protection.
Clear deck sealers can be very appealing to deck owners looking for water protection and to keep that “natural look” they are wanting. This comes at a risk to the wood deck because of the lack of sun protection. If you are looking for a natural-looking deck with both water and sun protection consider using a semi-transparent deck stain as opposed to a clear deck sealer.
How to Choose the Right Clear Deck Sealer
Finding the best sealer for a deck isn’t always easy, especially if you want a clear product that will still protect your wooden boards. Consider the following questions when choosing your clear deck stain:
- What type of deck do you have, and where is it located? The best clear deck sealer for you may depend on whether your deck sits poolside, near the ocean, or high in the mountains with lots of snow and rain.
- What kind of weather is your deck exposed to? The best product for your needs may vary depending on the weather your area experiences most frequently.
- What’s your budget? Prices can vary, but it’s critical to do your research and find the best deck seal for your needs rather than picking the least expensive option. You may spend slightly more upfront, but you could save on maintenance costs over time.
Application Tips for Clear Deck Sealers
Ready to start sealing your deck? Check out these tips before getting started for the best results.
- Don’t stain a new deck right away. If your deck is brand new, wait at least 30 days before applying a stain or sealant. Otherwise, the boards won’t absorb the stain.
- Make sure you know what type of product you’re using. Deck sealant, stain, and paint may all sound the same, but they’re actually three different products offering varying degrees of UV production, preservation, and pigmentation.
- Take the time to prep your deck before staining it. Sweep your deck, repair any loose or damaged boards, and give the wooden surface a good scrub before applying stain to ensure the wood absorbs the product properly.
- Check the weather before applying stain. Finally, make sure you apply your stain on a dry, sunny day when the temperature is between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Damp weather, high temperatures, or lots of wind can negatively impact the application and may result in the need for recoating.
Longevity and Durability of Clear Sealers
Even the best deck sealer will need reapplication at some point. However, clear deck stains and sealant may require more frequent maintenance and recoating to keep your wooden boards safe and protected from UV, moisture, and pests.
As a general rule of thumb, plan to reapply a clear stain once a year.
Eco-Friendly and Non-Toxic Options
Looking for an eco-friendly, non-toxic clear deck stain? You’re in luck! There are several products available from trustworthy brands like ECOS. You may also consider natural oils, such as teak, linseed, or walnut oil, though these may require more frequent reapplication.
Clear Deck Sealer Performance in Various Climates
As mentioned above, the type of weather your area experiences can be a determining factor when selecting the best deck seal for your project.
For instance, if you typically receive heavy rain and snowfall or live in an area with high humidity, the TWP 100 Series or TWP 1500 Series clear sealants may be the best bet for your deck. On the other hand, if you live in an arid, sunny region, the Defy Extreme Clear sealant may better protect your wooden deck boards.
Comparing Clear Deck Sealer Brands and Prices
The cost of clear deck sealant can vary widely. However, most of the products in this list cost between $50 and $60 for a 1-gallon container.
Ultimately, quality is the most important factor to consider. Plus, spending a bit more upfront on a quality product may save you more money and headaches down the road.
Common Issues with Clear Deck Sealers and How to Solve Them
Some of the most common issues with clear deck sealers include UV damage and wear and tear over time. Other problems may include moisture damage, discoloration, or even brush or roller streaks in the stain.
If you’re dealing with brush or roller streaks, you’ll likely see them fade over time. However, wear and tear, UV damage, and rot may require touch-ups or reapplication to prevent further damage.
FAQs About Clear Deck Sealers
Read on for more about clear deck sealers.
How often should I reapply a clear deck sealer?
As a general rule of thumb, plan to reapply a clear deck sealer once yearly to protect your deck boards.
Can clear sealers be used on all types of wood?
Yes, you can typically use a clear sealer on all types of wood. Keep in mind you will need to remove any existing stain or sealer before applying a new coat.
What are the best conditions for applying a clear sealer?
For best results when applying a clear sealer, keep an eye out for two to three days of clear weather, dry with temperatures between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do clear sealers impact the wood’s natural color and grain?
As their name suggests, clear sealers are transparent and allow the wood’s natural color and grain to show through without altering it. Instead, they simply help protect the deck boards from UV, moisture, and pest damage.
What is the difference between water-based and oil-based clear sealers?
Oil-based sealers generally penetrate more deeply into wooden deck boards, resulting in enhanced protection and preservation. That said, water- or silicon-based sealers can also defend your deck against the elements, though they may require additional care and regular reapplication.
How should I prepare my deck before applying a clear sealer?
For best results, make sure your deck is clean, dry, and clear of any furniture or decor before applying a clear sealer. If needed, you may also use a scrub brush or pressure washer and deck cleaner to remove dirt, grime, and old stain or sealers.
Are there clear sealers that also provide UV protection?
While clear sealers don’t offer as much UV protection as semi-transparent or solid stains, there are several products on the market that can help protect your wooden deck from UV damage.
Can I apply a clear sealer over an old stain or paint?
In most cases, you’ll need to remove old stain or paint before applying a clear sealer. If not, the old stain may show through the clear sealer and may even impact the sealant’s ability to penetrate into the wood.
What are the safety precautions to take when applying a sealer?
When applying any type of stain or sealant, make sure you wear long pants and sleeves to avoid skin irritation from splatters, along with proper protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and a mask. Make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes, too.
How to handle sealer runoff and spills during application
In most cases, you can handle small spills by blotting up the sealer and using soap and water to rinse off excess. If you’re facing a larger spill, you may need to use a deck stain cleaner to remove the unwanted sealant.
Have A Question on the Best Clear Deck Sealer? Ask Below in Comment Area!
I am confused here with the terms ‘sealer’ and ‘stain.’ I am ready to treat my 1-year-old PT pine deck. I would like for it to remain the natural honey color it is now. Are you saying that Defy Extreme Clear will NOT be able to do that because it is ‘clear’? Or are you saying that Defy Extreme Clear is different because it is a stain and not just a sealer, and will provide UV protection?
If you want UV protection that lasts, then you must use a stain that is tinted and has color.
We just built a potting bench from treated pine fence panels. My wife painted some flowers on it, and we want to apply a clear sealer over the entire bench, including over the painted areas, What would you recommend for this project? Photo attached.
A clear sealer will not prevent UV graying and they cannot be applied over another coating like a paint or a stain. Unfortunately what you want to do will not work here. The only coating that can go over paint would be a varnish or poly and that means it will peel on exterior wood and is never suggested.
Thanks a lot for the information, Scott! We really appreciate it. I didn’t even consider that we wouldn’t be able to apply sealer over the paint, but it certainly makes sense now.
No problem!
Best clear deck preserver. Deck is in direct sun. Sanding old satin off.
You want the wood to gray naturally in months? https://www.deckstainhelp.com/will-a-clear-sealer-prevent-graying-on-deck/
We are installing a brand new pressure treated cedar looking deck. I read where you said it needs to have a tint to prevent it from graying( which I did not know) thank you! Can I seal right away or do I have to wait, and recommendations for what to use. I want to keep the color as long as I can.
Thank you.
If you want UV protection it has to be tinted and no, you cannot stain or seal new wood right away:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
We paid to have our deck stained last year; it appeared he applied too much. We complained and he “washed” the deck using a mild detergent and it didn’t help. He basically blamed us for the previous old stain that had already been pressure washed off. Walking on the deck, the stain still rubs off onto our shoes, so we nor guests can walk in and out. Looking for an idea that will seal the current floor stain so we can walk on it without tracking it back into the house. We hope to build a new deck in a couple of years, but would love to be able to walk on it again until then….. Ideas?
You cannot seal over a stain. The only way to fix is to remove all and start over. For help with removing, post some pics.
I have pine decking that I stained with a “Hunter” grey colour. What should I use to maintain protection without adding more stain, which will darken the colour?
You cannot add anything on top of a deck stain for added protection. Only more stain as needed.
I have a Mahogany porch floor that I sealed with Messmer’s UV Plus natural finish last year. I never liked the fact that is was flat/no sheen. They no not offer or recommend a satin or gloss finish because they peal and are slippery. I am ok risking this to a point for the better look. Is there a product I can put over the finish that I have that will give it more of a wet look?
You cannot add a gloss of any level to a deck surface. It will peel/blister and will create a huge mess to sand off and fix. The stain needs to be fully penetrating with no shine.
We used Rust-Oleum 10x deck restorer . It is peeling in some places after one year and we keep reapplying. The finish is very chalky and and any dirt sticks to it. The walk through areas are muddy and don’t rinse off. Can we apply a sealer to the paint that would help resist the dirt?
No. The only way to fix it is to fully sand it all off.
We have a new covered, screened, porch with a T&G larch floor in northern NY. We see all kinds of weather -30 with snow to 90 and humid Looking for a clear to very light stain with UV protection and good on bare feet. We love the natural color and don
t want it to gray but dont want to add a lot of color. Any help you could give would be appreciated. thank youSee here about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
Try Restore A Deck Stain in Natural after wait and prep.
We have an Ipe deck and cypress barn doors. We want to protect them from water damage, however we do want them to weather and turn gray. Your site says that clear sealers will accomplish this. Can you recommend the best sealers for this job?
Thanks, Ken
Clear sealers offer no UV protection from graying. They must be tinted: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Try TWP or Restore A Deck Stains.
Hello,
The more I read the comments the more confused I get…and have spent hours trying to figure this out.. BUT…grateful to have found your site! We have a 1000 sq ft deck (oh my) and a patio cover that get sun the whole day. I sealed it last year with Super Deck which seems to have barely done anything. After reading reviews it seems the $20/gal vs $60/gal gets the same comments…that I will have to re-do this in a year. I have learned here I to pick a stain so that is new but helpful. I got a LOT of staining to do. So first I need to pressure wash the deck? Then stain it and then seal it?????? Thank you!!! From a mom of three that can’t spend any more time reading about deck sealers lol.
A quality deck stain will last 2-3 years. Prep by removing the prior coating and then use a semi-transparent stain after:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
You do not apply a sealer over a deck stain.
I have a cedar tinted at factory pressure treated wood deck which is three years old and ready for its first sealer treatment.
I would like to use a clear stain, but I have read that clear stains lacks pigment to prevent sun (UV) rays from long term damage to wood. Since my wood deck already has a stain should I still use a tinted semi transparent stain or would a clear stain be OK?
You want a semi-transparent stain after prep.
I have left over Defy Extreme stain that is probably 5 years old. I stirred the product and it still appears good. I have sanded the deck and plan to use this if age is not an issue. Does the Defy Extreme product lose its effectiveness over time?
Thanks
it should be fine as long as it mixes evenly and is not clumpy.
What’s the best option sealer or stain ? If the wood is iroko and there is snow for a few months of the year, then rain then high temperature 20-30c dry months with sun most of the day?
Look at one of these hardwood stains: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/ipe-exotic-hardwood-stain-review/
want to seal exterior glu lams
Hat is the best wood sealer (no pigment) to let wood grey naturally while resisting water?
Defy Extreme Clear or TWP 1500 Series in Clear.
We are almost done sanding off the Behr deck over we put on a few years ago. I was planning to use clear sealer (Thompson’s water seal), but read your article about its lack of UV protection. If I use a semi transparent stain, I would prefer a lighter color, but does a darker color provide better UV protection?
Yes, darker colors typically give better UV protection. Look at one of these brands:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
What are your recommended deck sealer brands?
Best to use semi-transparent stains unless you want the wood to gray natrually:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
What about for a dock? Sorry I miss wrote my initial question. Thx!
Restore a Deck in Natural or TWP in Honeytone colors.
What brand do you recommend for a new deck that will maintain the natural look of the wood while waterproofing and protecting from sun damage
You must have a tinted stain for UV protection. See here about new wood on how to prep and what to use: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
Can a clear sealer be used over a semi transparent stain? Is it recommended?
I have a black butt deck that’s gone grey naturally I’m wanting a product that will seal and protect the grey?
You cannot seal in the gray as you would have to prep it first and this would remove the graying. You can then use a clear sealer that will allow the wood to naturally gray again over time.
I understand that a clear treatment has less UV protection. Although I am trying to get the full TRUE colors of the hand selected cedar boards used on the deck. I have tried 2 different ‘clear’ wood protectors. Both left the wood YELLOW😳. Cedar has beautiful reds and whites which is what I want. I am willing to treat the deck every season to help protect it from the sun. Would that be enough to protect it so we can go ahead with a true ‘clear’ seal?
A true clear sealer has no UV protection. The ones you tested were not true clear sealers but lightly tinted. What you want to do is not possible. It has to be tinted to protect from graying otherwise it will gray in months.
Want to stain/seal cedar porches. What is the best product for uv protection and preserving the beauty of the wood.
Penetrating semi-transparent stains: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/best-semi-transparent-deck-stain-reviews-2020/
I am putting new redwood 2 x2 on the top of of a deck overhang. The structure is painted white (just finished) but The redwood I have is so beautiful I want to just use natural clear on it. What is my best choice
A clear will not provide UV protection. It needs to be tinted: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/best-semi-transparent-deck-stain-reviews-2020/
Hi there, I’m doing a cedar T&G cabin restoration and I’m looking for a clear coat that will not darken the wood. My client had a mold problem due to no ventilation, humid climate & no circulation. My plan is to run A/C ducting along the peak of the ceiling and add fans to correct the problem and prevent it from happening again. My clients love the look of the natural cedar, they want to keep this look but every transparent product I’ve tested so far darkens it. She also wants a gloss on the ceilings and flat on the walls which is basically asking for the impossible to have a variation in the colors but keep the natural Cedar look. Does anyone have any experience using a clear or water based transparent product that has had success with this? Any suggestions would be sincerely appreciated!
We do not work with or have experience with interior coatings that have any level of shine/gloss to them. Completely different products then outside coatings that have no shine at all.
my deck is painted – can I put a sealer ontop of this to make the paint last longer?
No.
why not?
It will not soak in, dry correctly, and will peel. You can never top coat a deck stain or paint with a sealer.
Thanks. Not the answer I was hoping for though! We have our deck “stained” with a Valspar product 2 months ago and it is molding/mildewing badly. I was hoping a sealer would help. Valspar says there is nothing they can do and that it is normal. Also not the answer I was looking for!
Valspar makes very poor deck stains: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/valspar-one-coat-stain-sealer-review/
Thanks. I guess it’s just something we are going to have to live with.
Can a severe weather wood be sanded after a darker sealer was applied
To remove the current sealer, yes.
I installed pine soffit ceilings in my porch area. The pine is untreated and will see very little sun and little to no direct moisture being that it is a ceiling. However, I would like to seal the ceiling to make it last as long as possible. I also want to prevent the pine from yellowing if I can. I live in South Texas so we experience mild winters and extremely humid summers. Any recommendations?
Try the Defy Extreme Clear.
what do you recommend for a clear oil based deck sealer? I have a cedar deck and made the mistake of using a semi-transparent stain on it. I plan to strip the stain and likely sand. I do not mind having to reapply an oil sealer on a regular basis. I want to avoid the constant stripping
Clear = zero UV protection from graying and will gray in months. Is this what you want?
no. I think I want to apply a penetrating oil that will protect the deck. I am in Minnesota so high intensity UV light is less of a problem than in other parts of the country, Nevertheless, i would like UV protection. I thought an oil would save me from the extensive maintenance that I encountered with a semi- transparent stain that peeled in 2 years. I thought that an oil would require yearly reapplication-but the preparation would be just good cleaning (vs stripping and sanding) The more I read, the more confused I get. your help is appreciated.
You need a penetrating semi-transparent oil-based stain like the TWP 100 series or Armstrong Clark. They do not peel and can be cleaned and reapplied as needed.
What would I use on a new cedar deck far as a clear tinted sealer? Not looking to stain it currently
See here about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
Clear will not offer UV protection from graying as explained above, must be tinted.
Hey there, we live in sunny (and super humid) Florida and just rebuilt our deck around a swimming pool using PT pine. Love the natural wood, and want to show off the grain, but wouldn’t mind going slightly darker with a semi-transparent if need be. What would be the best sealer to use in this area…hoping to be able to apply with a roller. Thanks so much, this is a very informative site!
See here about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
Redid our porch last year, left the floor natural wood and replaced the concrete steps with natural wood. We wanted to keep the light wood colour so chose to use Super Deck clear sealer. It seems to be all but gone this year with no protection left, so looking for something a bit longer lasting. Not opposed to something with a stain as long as it will keep it fairly light if that is a better option for protection. Also, obviously needs to go overtop SuperDeck, what is left of it. The main porch floor gets little sun, as it is covered and on the protected east side of the house, but the steps get the morning sun exposure.
Strip and brighten the wood to remove the Super Deck. You cannot apply over it. Stain with TWP 1500 Series or Armstrong Clark stains.
I have a deck, gate and side patio covered area that I will need to treat soon. I would like to see as much of the original wood color as possible but still do the UV and weather protection. Can I use one of the following in the link to do the entire job? Also, what would be the best way to apply? Maybe some type of sprayer?
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/best-semi-transparent-deck-stain-reviews-2020/
Thanks!
See this about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
Use a stain pad to apply or brush.
I want to use a CLEAR sealer on my factor- stained “cedar-toned” pt fencing and railings. Am i assuming correctly that the lack of uv protection typical in a clear sealer is a non issue in this situation since the wood is already stained in the factory. I DO NOT WANT TO CHANGE THE COLOR BUT I WANT TO PRESERVE THE WOOD. UV protection is already provided by the factory stain, is it not? If i am correct, will i need to seal every year or might it last 2-3? And, of course, all this also assumes that the wood WILL NOT TURN GREY which would defeat the whole purpose!!!! Thank you.
This is a very disappointing subject as i just installed a new cedar deck and after a week prior to sealing, the beautiful color is already leaving. We sanded it and are applying cabots natural Australian timber oil to that thus changing the color anyhow but hopefully still holding some advantage of cedar over pt.
The factory stain will not provide UV protection for very long, maybe a year. Then you will need to stain, nor seal with a tinted stain for UV protection every 2-3 years.
You have no choice but to do this unless you want the wood to gray.
2019.05.19. Installed floating boat dock with PT pine. Four months later put Valspar One coat exterior clear sealer. Looked great for a few months. Then…first noticed that the product became sticky, then started turning brown and splotchy in the areas that were exposed to direct sunlight. The areas that are not exposed to all day sunlight look acceptable. 12 months later and the swim deck that is exposed to sun looks terrible. Now using an orbital sander, 40 grit sanding disc, to remove sealer from swim deck. It’s very time-consuming, but starting to look like a brand new board. First, I hope we are correct in sanding sealer off, since we are half-way through with swim deck. Secondly, we are correct to NOT go back with Valspar, right? What is your professional recommendation for product to use? Pictures of swim deck, and an area that is covered but does receive sunlight in late afternoon attached. Thanks in advance for any help you can offer. Barbara
After fully sanding it off, clean and brighten for final prep. We do not like the Valspar: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/valspar-one-coat-stain-sealer-review/
Use one of these brands: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Hello, i live in KC and had a treated pine wood deck built around a pool last year. I’m ready to weather protect it but really don’t want to change the color of the natural wood. Now that I know I can’t put just a clear weatherproof sealant on due to no Sun protection, what’s the best protectant with the lightest of color? We love the love of untouched wood. Thank you!
Try TWP in Honeytone or Defy Extreme in Natural Pine.
Our multiple decks’ surface boards are cedartone treated pine sold by M—— in the Chicago area. They were installed about 15 months ago around a swimming pool and by the house which has sun for only 5 or 6 hours a day, the wood has never been sealed.
The cedar tone color has held it’s color and I’m considering using transparent sealer/stain, what brands should be considered? I’ve heard Sherwin Williams is really good however I have a hard time finding any reviews.
Use one of these brands: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
We are not fans of any SW Deck Stains: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/?s=super+deck
Are you not a fan due to performance or other issues?
SW Super Deck turns black. It doesn’t last.
Hope this isn’t a repeat question..
I have small privacy fence on 2 sides of my deck and the deck is approximately 15 by 25 feet. All the wood is MicroPro Sienna PT.
What would you recommend doing or not doing with regards to sealing?
I thought I should seal it with a clear sealer since it’s already has color in the PT wood.
I put advanced Thompsons water seal on the bottom side of deck boards but wasn’t sure if that is the best product for top.
Thanks
Clear sealer will not provide UV protection and will gray in months. See here about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
Good morning. My father always said the stupidest question is the one never asked.
Well here goes. So, I have a new deck 1 year old. Want to keep it just standard natural look. Are you saying to buy and stain sealer in a natural color opposed to just a clear sealer to help prevent sun damage.
Thx
It must be tined if you want UV protection. Use one of these: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/best-semi-transparent-deck-stain-reviews-2020/
Clear will gray naturally in months.
Jeff,
Relatively new deck (pressure treated southern pine), installed in late November. After 3 months of drying, some checking appeared. Moisture meter read mostly under 9%, so I thought it was time to apply some protection. After cleaning (waited two days after cleaning) I applied a semi-transparent stain (Sherwin Williams water based Superdeck). Result came out very splotchy. I then stripped the deck (Behr stain stripper). The deck looks OK now in its natural state. Knowing that a clear sealer will have no UV protection and will turn grey, would there be another option to apply a solid color stain? Would the stain (clear or otherwise) take OK after the stripper application?
Thanks,
You must use a wood brightener after stripping to neutralize. Do this before staining and then you are okay. Try Armstrong Clark Stains or TWP Stains.
Hi – We want to apply a clear sealant to all of the decks on our condo building. The decks were built new a little over a year ago. What brand/type of clear sealant would you recommend? Do we also need to seal the posts and other non-deck/stair surfaces?
Thanks!
You do realize it will gray naturally in months if you use a clear sealer? Are you okay with this?
I think so, the other owners want to use a clear sealer.
Look at Defy Extreme Clear or TWP 1500 Series in Clear.
We are installing new tongue and groove fir boards on a covered porch. Porch faces east. Gets morning sun and limited water. Can a transparent stain adequately seal between the boards so water doesn’t get between them? We will seal all sides of the boards but want the top coat to create an impermeable coating between the boards. Looking at Sikkens but don’t like the colors and hoping to maintain natural wood look more. Want a sealer that creates a rubbery/solid layer on top to minimize water infiltration. Or can we do a stain followed by a good exterior sealer? What products are compatible for that?
No, a sealer will not seal between boards. Deck stains or sealer will not creat a rubbery/membrane on the wood. Also, you cannot sealer over a deck stain or vice versa.
I am having a cedar picnic table built… gorgeous. What is the best clear sealer for waterproofing and UV protection? Thank you .
A clear sealer will not provide UV protection. It must be tinted. See here about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
Thanks about the UV info…..of course. Makes sense. Then, what I really need is the best sealer for CEDAR……it is beautiful and I’d like to try to keep it that way…….thank you………again!
All tinted colors will enhance the grain based on the color you choose. The color is up to you. Look at Armstrong after the wait and prep.
Building a large deck and wanting to slightly burn the wood then seal/stain it… Would a natural stain completely take away from the burnt look?
Similar to this
You would want a true clear sealer, not a Natural tint. A tinted coating would alter the appearance. Problem is that a clear sealer will not provide any UV protection.
Which semi transparent deck stain is the best to use and where can it be purchased?
See here: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Check with the manufacturers for help with purchasing.
I need a stain/water protection that goes on clear for my deck.What would I use. In the past I have used Sickens products but they don’t sale clear. Thank You.
Clear means it will gray naturally in months. Are you okay with that?
I am looking for water repellincy.
Can a sealer be painted over a clean and painted wood deck.
No. You cannot seal over a painted or stained deck.
I just built a redwood pergola and would like to know the best sealer to protect the natural looking redwood. I was going to go with a clear sealer by Cabot but read that a clear sealer might not protect from UV damage. If I go with a semi transparent deck stain, what is th best tint to use to keep the natural redwood look?
See here about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
I want to put a sealer/protector on two single person porch swings. I want to keep them the natural color, but I want them protected from water, sun, and mildew. What Cabot sealer should I use.
As the article above explains, a clear sealer will not provide UV protection. It must be tinted like one of these top brands: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Hi. I live in Los Angeles. I have an Ipe deck that has not been treated in ten years or more. It gets a lot of sun. It it still in reasonably good shape, but has silvered in most places, which I don’t mind. I think the ship has sailed on restoring the original reddish color, and that’s okay. At this point I just want to protect it from further UV damage, and protect it from moisture. It is starting to show signs of cupping and buckling due to higher than usual rainfall last year. I just borrowed a heavy-duty power-washer, and plan to clean it off – but can’t figure out what to treat it with afterwards. The stuff I used when the deck was first built was very expensive and hard to use, oil-based and specifically designed for Ipe. But it never worked right and wore off quickly without absorbing. I went to Home Depot but didn’t see anything that seemed ideal. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
You want a stain designed for your wood type. See this for help: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/ipe-exotic-hardwood-stain-review/
I live in Canada where clear oil-based sealers are no longer sold ….just water-based. I have a bit of a “different color wood dilemma in that there is:
1) a green pressure-treated dock 18 years old, now a light green/grey. The first sealant many years ago was Thompson’s Waterseal (water-based and lasted 1 year. Then I used Olympic Waterguard (oil based) many years ago and it lasted many years. A few years ago I used Olympic again but didn’t realize it is now water-based in Canada and it did not last a year. Needless to say, I’m not impressed with water-based clear sealant.
2) a light brown “Barefoot” brand pressure-treated lower deck/pergola, that is a bleached looking light brown. I put the same Olympic WaterGuard (water-based) that I had left over from previous years and it did little to nothing.
3) The “wall” of the upper deck and stairway at the cottage has just been redone with the now seemingly only-available pressure treated “Sienna” lumber …a quite pleasing light brown/cedar-like color. All stores (HD, Lowes, etc) only carry the Sienna p-t lumber.
All 3 different woods are contiguous so the different wood is noticeable (but not necessarily bad-looking). I can send a picture if desired.I am adding 2 more fingers to the dock and have found some green p-t lumber still available and will use that as it will tie in with the other fingers and I believe the older p-t treatment is superior to the newer treatments.
I now want to protect all wood on all areas and want some recommendations. The wood will be clean and dry, but I want the treatment to last many years, and then be able to easily do it again when it needs it. I will likely apply with a sprayer or a roll-on. Any advise you can give would be appreciated.
Thank you for your time and help.
Bill
Look at using the TWP 200 Series in Clear.
Need a clear restorative, stain recommendation for a 38 year old Boulder CO town home, back deck that gets little or no direct sunshine and only half the deck is exposed to rain and snow.
Try TWP 100 Series.
We just stained our deck. The deck is several years old but still in good condition. Can you recommend a good sealer (Water Proofing).
You cannot apply a sealer over a deck stain.
I have a deck that has water based paint on rails and deck, we cleaned and sanded it, now I want to leave it like it is weathered, rustic whatever you want to call it, but I would like a clear top coat that would protect it, wishful thinking? suggestions?
Clear cannot be applied over a paint. In addtion, a clear will not provide UV protection so it will gray in a matter of months if you did remove all of the paint.
I have ipe decks which have been treated with Penofin. Should I stick with that or can I switch to Cabot Australian Timber oil…or would you suggest something else all together?
Thank you
Switch to one of these brands: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/ipe-exotic-hardwood-stain-review/
We bought a beautiful carved wood Tribal panel consisting of five panels connected by short pegs on the sides in Bali some years back . On one side there are raised designs in configurations of a Sun Mandala which are also painted . These designs are faded slightly We want to hang the piece under a covered loggia in an area that gets some direct sun light in the afternoon . Otherwise it will be out of weather factors except for swelling and contraction from the elements . The wood Sun Mandala was originally in the ceiling of an old rice barn .
What would be the best way to seal the painted wood surface and protect it from sun rays as well as moisture /swelling .
The piece is in an arid environment that has a rainy season as well .
You cannot seal over a paint nor will a clear sealer protect from UV.
So…..I wish I would have found your website before I started treating my rails with clear sealant. It’s made out of cedar. I used Valspar clear. Does all wood gray with clear sealant with 4-6 hours of sun? I live in Texas so it’s hot too.
Yes.
can you stain a deck after its been sealed
No. The stain will not soak in fully.
Looking for the best semi transparent natural color wood deck stain.
Try TWP in Honeytone, Armstrong Clark in Natural, or Restore A Deck Stain in Natural color.
what brands do you recommend? I just rebuilt a deck using weather shield treated wood. I want to protect it from sun and water damage. I was thinking about a light/natural stain and water seal combo. Everyone I know uses Thompsons but I’ve seen mixed reviews online and Home depot stopped carrying it. Why? Whats the best brand out there today?
Thompsons is a poor product: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/thompsons-waterseal-finish-review/
For best results, use a penetrating semi-transparent stain: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
what is a good water-repellent wood preservative. We live at a high altitude 9700 feet and want a product that is both a repellent and preservative. It is for wood siding where ice forms at the bottom 6 – 8 inches
Try TWP 100 Series.
I’m in need of the best water sealer for my redwood fence, not a stainer also just a seal
You are okay with the wood graying naturally in a matter of months? Clear sealers will not provide adequate UV protection from graying.
I just completed a deck replacement using 2×6 Tropical Decking pressure treated, wax injected boards. Want to protect it while keeping as close to natural look of wood grain as possible . Want water and UV protection as deck is in uncovered unshaded area in South Florida. Please recommend product. Thanks
Must be tinted if you want UV protection and the darker the tint, the longer the UV protection. See this for some new wood tips as well: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
I am restoring a deck which has been painted. Sanding and removing the old paint. Some of the wood is exposed but the job is incomplete. While some of the paint has been removed. many of the boards still need additional work. I must stop work for several months and will restart work in January, if weather permits. I leave in Southern Colorado and there is a lot of sun but there is very little moisture. I have no idea how to temporarily protect the surface. Will leaving the surface bare cause significant damage to the wood. If so what are your suggestions for temporary protection.
5
No need to temporarily protect. Just leave as is for now.
I recently had an Eagle carved out of a large piece of pine. The carver burned the wings for color. Recommendation on a clear sealer, no color. It will obviously be outside in all weather elements. I am in middle Georgia. Thanks.
Defy Extreme Clear.
I have 2 sets of redwood stairs with landing between that brings people from garage area to front door. I’m having it sand down and prepared for a non shining flat clear look. I was told to look at Olympic Maximum clear waterproofing sealant and Penefin red label clear sealer. Which was is better? Where is there samples of the tone color both these would give me? Would it be best to use a semi transparant sealer that will give me a mat/flat non shining look that is not slippery when put on the wood? What are your suggestions?
Best to use a penetrating semi-transparent stain like one of these: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Im preparing to treat my new pressure treated deck and wondering if there is a difference between a stain and a sealer, I read the reviews on the TWP, and it only says that it is a stain. Do I need to seal before staining? or is the TWP a all in one product for sealing and staining ?
Deck stains are sealers as well. You cannot use a sealer before staining. It will hinder the stain’s ability to soak in.
I want to put a clear sealer on my new 5\4 x 6 treated deck. What would you suggest?
Are you okay with it turning gray naturally? That is what a clear sealer will do.
See this about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
My husband used Cabalt Clear Protector on our newly install deck, and I hate the color hue 😢. It brought out a yellow tone in our deck. I told him this would happen because the substance was yellow but he insisted it would go on clear. I had tested sealers earlier in the year and have found even though brands insist their product is a clear base they all give off different hues, so without my knowledge my husband went out and bought a sealer not knowing this. I wanted more of a brownish hue. What can I do to remove it so I can redo the deck. Signed upset Deckhand Mate
You will need to strip and brighten to fix this. Use Restore A Deck Kits.
Will it involve just putting on application then washing it off? Will spraying it on or do I need to roll it on also? Hoping it will involve applying then rinsing, two steps 😄!
You apply the stripper than pressure wah off. Same with the brightener. Use a pump sprayer to apply the stripper and the brightener.
I live in Seattle and have a new Garapa deck. I want to preserve the natural finish and protect from weather. Would you suggest clear stain or sealer? Thanks!
You need a hardwood deck stain. See this: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/category/deck-product-reviews/ipe-and-hardwood-stain-reviews/
Thanks!
I have steps in another location that are Cedar. Can I use the same hardwood stain?
You should be able to.
what would be the best stain for a new deck
See this for tips: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
Can grit be put in the stain so deck will not be slippery?
No it cannot.
what is the best clear stian
Defy Extreme Clear.
I have a deck that has wolmanized wood decking that has held up great for many years but is now looking tired. I just recently powerwashed it and want to know what I can apply to continue more good years from the wood. I have never applied any cleaner or stain or sealer but now might be the time. What do you recommend?
The TWP Stains or Restore A Deck Wood Stains.
about one year ago we installed a new deck using dock grade material we let it set for a month before using Wood X sealer which they recommended
Now it appears that mold is showing thru. What do recommend to get rid off this ?
Prep with this to remove: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-injectable-deck-stain-stripper-review/
Then restain with one of these brands: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Should we stain or reseal
Stain.
We just built a new cedar deck and stained it – yet within 3 weeks the deck looks dirty and moldy and has black spots. What can we use to seal the deck over the stain to help the water to repel?
You cannot seal over a deck stain. In addition, you may have stained this way to early and without proper prep: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
You might need to remove and start over.
Hi,
Using cedar-tone pressured treated lumber for my deck. Should I use a clear sealer or semi-transparent deck stain? What is best?
Thank You
Tony
Use a semi-transparent: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
See this about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
What’s the best semi-transparent deck stain in natural color to use
Natural is tinted, clear is not. Which are you looking for?
What’s the best product to put on cedar tone treated lumber?
Try TWP stains or Armstrong Clark.
We bought a 10 year old home last year in the PNW. The home has a lovely covered by roofline wrap around deck. The person we hired stripped and then made an error and used two coats of a one coat product. It became sticky. He rest ripped the deck with mixed results. We had an expert come out and recommend sanding the deck. He has agreed to do this. After it’s sanded we want to put a transparent sealer on it but really from Thompson’s to Defy there are poor reviews on all of them The deck is 600 square feet and we don’t want to repeat the problem. Thanks for your advice.
TWP 1500 Series or Armstrong Clark.
I could not locate TWP transparent. Do you have a link?
They have semi-transparent colors. You must have a tint for UV protection from graying.
Is there a water repellent I can use over a newly cleaned and stained deck?
You cannot add a clear sealer on top of a deck stain.
Is there a sealer that protects against the moss or lichens growing on a completely shaded deck. I need something that will keep the deck from getting slick when it rains.
Try Defy Extreme Clear but if you already have a stain on the deck now, you cannot add a sealer on top of it.
I’ve cleaned the deck and removed all the old sealer. My concern is the slick deck from the scum that grows from the shade. I wondered if there was a sealer or stain I could use to alleviate this problem.
No, a sealer will not stop this from growing on top. May minimize but not stop.
I have stained a deck , what can I put on it to protect against water and sun?
You cannot top coat or seal over a deck stain.
Best clear deck water sealer
Defy Extreme Clear.
Can I use a colored stain over a a clear deck sealer?
No, not without removing the sealer first which is fairly easy with a stain stripper.
What do you recommend to protect a tobacco stick wood outdoor gate? I would like to keep the original appearance while protecting from water damage. Note: kept in shade
Try Defy Extreme Clear.
Does the clear wood protected peel?
Depends on the brand. Not all soak in.
Ok your article makes sense. Suggest a couple of quality semi-transparent sealers,
See here:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
I just built a deck using pressure treated wood. What is the best clear water sealer to use? How long should I wait before sealing? Do I seal the entire deck or do I leave some untreated?
As the article mentions, clear means little to no UV protection. Are you okay with it turning gray in a matter of months?
What about using “Liquid Rubber” for IPE? I love the look of my IPE after it is cleaned but it turns grey in a couple of months.
It will have no UV protection from graying and it will most likley ruin your IPE.
In your opinion who makes the best Natural looking deck preservative
Natural Color in Restore A Deck Wood Stains or Armstrong Clark Stains.
Hi, can you put a clear sealer on the decking without staining first? My client likes the colour of the wood already. Thanks
Hi Dan, two things. You cannot apply a clear sealer over a deck stain. As the article states, a clear sealer will not provide UV protection so your clients wood will gray naturally in a few months.
I have seen you not suggesting clear over a previously stained deck. I am assuming it would repel and not accept the top coat. Can you restain with the same semi-transparent stain later for maintenance and if so, why would this take and not the clear? Thanks!
You cannot seal over a deck stain right after install. The sealer will not adhere or soak in. When recoating with the same color and brand of stain, you can clean and brighten the wood for the prep. This will ensure proper adhesion.
There would be no advantage to you using a clear sealer over a stain even if you could o this. The clear will offer zero UV protection and stain colors will have the same water repellency anyhow.
what is best sealer for a exterior cedar table. want to keep look of cedar.
You will need a tinted stain if you want to protect from UV graying. See one of these brands:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Can a clear deck sealer (or any other wax or product) be applied over a toner to give the toner added life. It seems crazy no one can make a product capable of lasting more than a year or two.
No you cannot add anything on top.
I had a PT pine fence installed this week. (130ft x6ft)… the company said to apply a sealer within a few weeks. What products do you recommend?
Use one of these stains: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
I just pressure washed my deck it has not been sealed or stain.it is about 9 months old i want to keep the natural look what should i use i do not want to stain it
You are okay with it graying naturally in a matter of months? Clear sealers will not provide UV protection. You must have “stain” in your coating for UV protection. Best to use one of these:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
I am having a deck built currently. The wood is cedar and it is prestained. Do you think that just a water sealer will be enough since it came prestained? I love the color of it currently, I know it will fade some but want to try and keep it as close to the color it is as possible.
Thanks!
Andrea
You cannot add a clear sealer over a deck that has a deck stain on it nor will a clear sealer help to prevent the fading. Leave it and redo in 1-2 years with a stain.
thanks for the feedback. The prestain that they used does not bead up when water gets on it though. I am not sure what kind of stain they use. I purchased them stained. Should I just put a coat of Behr stain and water sealant on it?
Thanks,
Andrea
No, you cannot do that. The pre-stain has to be stripped off first and then brighten the wood. After, use a tinted deck stain like one of these: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Sorry I am just not understanding why…I took a piece of scrap wood that they had cut off and put a semi transparent stain/water protector made by Behr on there last night and, put a little water on there. It was still pooled on there this morning, and since it was semi transparent ceder it looked even prettier than just the prestain they put on there. Why can I not do that? Will it mess up the deck?
You cannot apply a stain over a different brand of stain and assume it will soak in correctly and penetrate properly. You are setting yourself for product failure by not following the correct prepping steps. BTW, Behr has horrible reviews. Might want to read the consumer comments here: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/behr-deck-stain-review/
I have an older deck that was just pressure washed, and algecided. Gets full then partial sun depending on time of day. Location is NW NJ. Was very mildewed prior to cleaning. I live in townhouse. What would be best low maintenance stain to use? Would like if natural would could be seen. Thanks.
Try the Defy Extreme Stains.
We have a deck that is 20 months old. We stained the deck with Sherwin Williams Super Deck Semi Transparent Water Borne formula (latex). I put 2 coats on the floor after the wood had cured for 10 months. Now 10 months later it is already spot peeling. What should I do now? I want to make sure the wood is protected and is waterproof.
Strip and sand to remove. Brighten all the wood after. Use a penetrating stain going forward so it does not peel and is easier to reapply. See this for brands: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
I used Thompson’s WaterSeal Wood protect in clear (green & white can) on my PT pine deck because we were in a time crunch and I could grab it easily from HD. I did clean it & pressure wash beforehand. However, I’m not very happy with how it turned out and I want a bit more color. (Also I’ve been reading about how awful Thompson’s is).
Questions:
1) The label says I can apply oil based paint over TWS in about 1 month, is this true?
2) I’m considering putting TWP semi-transparent over top of it after it cures. Will this work, or do I need to actually paint over it instead of stain?
3) If I can put oil based semi transparent stain over top in 1 month, will I need to powerwash again before staining?
Any advice is great appreciated, thanks a million!
1. No
2. You cannot apply a semi-transparent stain over this.
3. You should remove the Thompsons by stripping and brightening the wood while pressure washing. This will work: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-injectable-deck-stain-stripper-review/