Flood CWF-UV5 Oil Wood Stain Review
Hi, I’m Scott Paul, a licensed exterior restoration contractor with over 30 years of experience and 10,000+ deck restorations. This review of Flood CWF-UV5 oil wood stain is based on my own hands-on field testing, not manufacturer claims. See my full credentials and testing stats here.
Many of our readers who have used this Flood stain report mixed results regarding its appearance and longevity. While some appreciate the initial finish, others have noted concerns about durability over time. This is our second review of Flood CWF-UV5 — see our first Flood CWF5 Oil review here for how results compared between tests.
- Overall score: 7.0/10 — a decent semi-transparent oil stain, better than most acrylic-based alternatives but not top-tier
- Loses about 30% of its color on horizontal surfaces by the 2-year mark; railings hold color better
- We found mold developing in our second review, despite full-sun exposure — worth monitoring
- For stronger color retention and mold resistance, TWP or Armstrong Clark outperform Flood CWF-UV5 in our testing
Table of Contents
- Key Features
- Flood Stain Rating (1–10)
- Overall Score
- How Flood Stain Compares
- FAQ
- Product Information
- Test Deck Stats
- Photos
- Video
Key Features of This Flood Stain
- Premium oil finish ideal for newer, less weathered wood
- Adds minimal color and highlights the natural wood grain
- The penetrating formula protects against moisture damage
- The mildew-resistant finish is designed not to crack, peel, or flake
- Clear Tint Base can be custom-matched to most wood tones while maintaining the wood’s natural look
- Applies quickly with a pump or airless sprayer, or by brush or roller
- Features Penetrol®, which penetrates and protects wood from the inside out
Flood CWF Oil Review
Flood Stain Rating (1–10)
Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8
Flood CWF-UV5 had a nice rich color when applied to the ACQ pine decking — golden with a hint of orange. Knots were a little lighter than the rest of the deck, which is normal for a true oil-based stain. Grain was highlighted well.
Preventing UV Graying at 2-Year Mark: 7
Color retention was decent. The flooring lost about 30% of its color, but railings retained much of the original color.
Wear/Tear and Peeling: 7
No peeling, but there was noticeable wearing around high-traffic areas.
Cost Per Square Foot: 7
We used 4 gallons total for 2 coats on 400 square feet, paying about $30 a gallon on sale from a local Glidden store.
Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 7
Our first review of Flood CWF-UV5 had better results here. In this test, we found mold growing in the coating after two years — surprising, since this deck was in full sun.
Ease of Application: 7
We applied the first coat with a pump sprayer and the second coat with a staining pad made for decking, using the “wet on wet” technique per the manufacturer’s directions. We back-wiped any excess stain that hadn’t penetrated within 15 minutes.
Color Shifting (Darkening) After 2 Years: 7
Flood CWF-UV5 slightly darkened in color on the railings. The flooring faded in color instead.
Difficulty of Reapplication: 6
Light stripping or a good deck cleaning while pressure washing is enough prep to reapply. No sanding required.
Overall Score: 7.0/10
Flood CWF-UV5 is a decent semi-transparent oil stain that performs better than many acrylic-based alternatives. Its oil-based formula penetrates well into the wood grain, offering good initial protection and a natural finish. That said, there are areas where it falls short: color retention struggles to maintain vibrancy over time, and mold development was a concern in our second round of testing. It’s a step up from many acrylic-based stains, but these drawbacks are worth weighing against other oil-based options.
How Flood Stain Compares
| Stain | Type | DSH Rating | Coverage/Gallon | Cost/Gallon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flood CWF-UV5 | Oil-based, penetrating | 7.0/10 | 100–200 sq ft | $43.99 |
| TWP 1500 Series | Oil-based, penetrating | 8.5/10 | 150–250 sq ft | $46.99 |
| Armstrong Clark | Oil-based, penetrating | 8.5/10 | 150–200 sq ft | $72.95–$83.95 |
Flood Stain FAQ
How does Flood CWF-UV5 compare to TWP?
TWP 1500 Series outperforms Flood CWF-UV5 in our testing, scoring 8.5/10 versus Flood’s 7.0/10. TWP held its color better over 2 years and showed stronger mold and mildew resistance. Both are oil-based penetrating stains in a similar price range, but TWP has consistently been one of our top-rated brands.
How does Flood CWF-UV5 compare to Armstrong Clark?
Armstrong Clark scored 8.5/10 in our testing, notably higher than Flood CWF-UV5’s 7.0/10. Armstrong Clark’s conditioning-oil formula held color longer and showed no mold issues in our testing, though it costs more per gallon. If durability and color retention are the priority, Armstrong Clark is the stronger choice.
What is the coverage per gallon for Flood CWF-UV5?
Flood rates coverage at 100 to 200 square feet per gallon. In our test, we used 4 gallons for 2 coats on 400 square feet, which falls within that range. Actual coverage depends on wood porosity and age — older, more weathered wood absorbs more product per coat.
What are the best application tips for Flood CWF-UV5?
Apply using the “wet on wet” technique specified by the manufacturer — the first coat with a pump sprayer, the second with a staining pad, back-wiping any excess within 15 minutes. Dry time runs 24 to 48 hours, longer than many competing oil stains, so plan your application window accordingly and check the weather forecast before starting.
How long does Flood CWF-UV5 last?
Based on our 2-year field test, expect noticeable color fade on horizontal surfaces, with about 30% color loss on the deck floor by year 2, though railings held up better. Reapplication only requires light stripping or a good deck cleaning — no sanding needed — which makes maintenance easier even though the color doesn’t hold as long as TWP or Armstrong Clark.
Product Information
Where To Buy: Glidden Paint Store, Home Depot, Paint Stores, Online Stores
Cost: $49.99 per Gallon, $259.99 per 5-Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Semi-Transparent — Oil Based
Available Colors: 27 Colors
Application Temperature: 50–80°F
Coats Required: 2 Coats
Coverage Per Gallon: 100–200 sq. ft.
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 24–48 Hours
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in all States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Flood
Test Deck Stats
Deck Wood Type: Pressure Treated Pine
Deck Square Footage: 500 sq. feet
UV Exposure: Full Sun
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: Natural Cedartone
*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Consider that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.
Flood Deck Stain Photos
My Best Deck Stains 2026 Video – DeckStainHelp.com
I used flood stain on our brand dew deck and it didn’t last one full season, and started pealing off, now I am not sure what to do, taking it all off is going to be a monumental task, I was told this was a good product, it sure didn’t hold up for me!!
What are best overall semi transparent oil base deck stain products to apply to old well sanded and cleaned pine decks and railings
See our list here: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/best-semi-transparent-deck-stain-reviews/
Can this product be used directly on a new pressure treated deck, new wood?
No. See this about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
Should I apply Thompsons Water Seal after using Flood?
No and you cannot apply a sealer over the top of the exterior wood stain. It would peel if you did this.
I will be using Flood FLD520 on my new deck. I am being told that I will need to apply a sealant after the stain. Is that a good idea and do you have a recommendation for a sealant to go with this stain?
No, you cannot apply a sealer over a deck stain. It will peel.
I built a bunke using rough sawn pine 20 years ago and applied cwf (2 coats) 10 years later I recoated it. This year I again recoated it. The end result is unbelievable as it it does not look it’s age. I have no experience on using cwf on a deck so can’t comment on that. I live in north Ontario so this building gets pretty extreme weather.II couldn’t be happier with the results. Also I apply it with a brush. . I’ve been using Sikkens srd on my deck and it looks terrible wears out gets brown and ugly. Maybe I’ll try. cwf on it as well but not looking forward to all the sanding.
My deck is 32 years old. I’ve only used oil base CWF OIL (mine doesn’t say UV5) products as water based ones tend to be like paint and peel, basically becoming a problem for next application. Some decks have needed to be stripped. I apply it every 2-3 years which is a pain, but has kept the deck in good condition.
Why is the stain still tacky in areas after a week
Over application is the main cause but the Flood is not the best brand these days.
Can I restain the deck without completely removing previous stain? Prevciously stained with FLood CWF-UV5 Oil. This product seems hard to find. Have the names changed? Can I use Flood CWS Oil without UV5 on a deck that does not get alot of sun?
We are not sure if compatible or not. Best to ask Flood directly.
What does the UV mean?
Ultra violet from the sun.
Can I tint the stain a black color?
No.
We have previously used a different clear product that did not last and our deck looked old and worn. We even thought we might need to replace the deck it looked so bad. We power washed the deck, let it dry then used Flood Oil Natural. Oh My! What a beautiful deck we have! It was so easy. I used a pad put on the broomstick handle and applied. The grain in the wood stands out and the color of the wood is so pretty. We used the non oil Flood Natural on the stairs we have an outside dog we didn’t want the oil on the dog’s paws and it looks beautiful too. Highly recommend this product.
Can you put this over put this over Thompson’s deck stain?
No, you should remove the Thompsons first.
Recommendations on flood water based stain and rating?
We tried it and it did not soak in well. Applied spotty. We would not suggest it.
Can I put this over top of Behr Premium Advanced DeckOver that is 3 years old? The Behr has held up well, but it has faded to a milky color. I tried adding the Flood CWF-UV5 on one railing and it looks good. Our deck is on the South side and gets sun all day long, 365 days a year. Our concern, is chemical reaction between the two, and the fact that the deck gets so hot (can’t walk in bare feet on it), that we wonder if it might get soft so that twisting a shoe on it would cause the coating to loosen.
No, nothing can go over the Behr Deckover.
Sad to hear this, but thank you for responding!
Can I apply this over a 10-year old application of Flood CWF-UV Acrylic/Oil sealer?
No, you should remove the current coating first.
I used CWF-UV5 for a new brown pressure treated deck. I bought 6 gallons of the product. I waited 9 months to apply the finish to ensure the deck boards were ready to accept the stain. Once applied I loved it! Especially when it was wet as the deck looked like it was cedar. After the 1st year though there were areas where the finished wore off.
I am going to give the product another try and hopefully this time I was have better success.
Used it up in Canada where not much lasts well with our freeze thaw cycles and baking sun. But it lasts well. Goes on well and looks good even after four years. The top portion is 4 yrs and the bottom and trim are fresh. No bad. Took about 3.5 cans to do about 80’ double sided.
I felt compelled to post a review about the superb quality of your product. I’ve been applying it on my back deck every 2 years for 20 years, it looks better now than the day it was built. Awesome stuff, thanks for your commitment to quality.
Talk to customer support came up with every excuse called a few professional painters in my area of Connecticut they told me they would never even consider ever using it. Bought it from Lowe’s in Lowe’s discontinued it. Do yourself a favor get anything else other than this product
This flood product is absolute garbage. I put it on my kiln dried Western Cedar and it’s sun fades blotchy spots and water stains within four months stay away from it absolutely terrible product support offered to refund my money instantly when I told him I had a problem $20,000 worth of work later do not use it
You call Flood CWF-UV5 a semi-transparent stain. But the Flood website calls it a transparent stain. That website lists two semi-transparent stains: Flood Pro Series Semi-Transparent Stain Alkyd and Flood Pro Series Semi-Transparent Stain Acrylic. Both seem to be oil-based, and the oil/acrylic has a much longer guarantee period than CWF-UV5. I can’t find any mention of either one on your site. Could you clarify, please? Thanks.
They have changed their names and wording on their products in the last few years. This is a review of their oil based product and it is semi-transparent in color when tested.
Based on reviews found elsewhere and the information on your site, I am leaning towards flood uv-5 for an upcoming project. Hemlock board and batten siding, new construction so it hasn’t been finished before. The wood is going up around 30% moisture, and dries to around 20 within a week. Should be finished putting siding up by mid sept.
My question- do you think uv5 would be a good choice for this aplication. It seems readily available in my area (home Depot carries it), is a decent price, and your reviews seem pretty good. Anything else you’d suggest over it in this price range?
It will work just fine for your siding.
Thanks for the link, but to clarify, I am looking to seal and protect a new screenporch made of construction grade pine, NOT treated lumber…. is it still recommended to leave it unprotected for 2 months ?
Yes.
Central Wisconsin. Heavy Snow.
Newly constructed Screen porch of untreated pine. What do I need to apply to protect? The floor of this porch has 5+ year old . CWF honey gold.
Some sections (also treated with honey gold)combined with previous deck probably just Thompsons water sealed….what would mske this uniform appearance?
See this about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
hello, thanks for the info and advice. The site, its GREAT!
i did a search, but didnt see info on Flood CWF-UV FLD520, penetrating wood finish. 4/2 warranty, $~96 x5Gal at HD.
None of you top rated products were available local at the time, I got it thinking it was the same as in your review for UV5 Oil, this one is water clean up and cheaper.
I had similar results application wise as you with th UV5. Two coats to smooth out finish, some dripping, spray w/back roll. Only a year on deck but holding up well (full sun, NY winter) compared to previous (Olympic MAXIMUM oil AND water based) products.
thanks again for your reviews and tips!
How is yours holding up 2 years in? Like you, I could only find the FLD520 at my local HD, at $96 for 5 Gallons, seems pretty good for a decently rated product. One difference I can see with this CWF-UV FLD520 is the fortification with Penetrol which is used to improve leveling for a smooth finish. Cheers
Have decks in two locations, one lakeside, the other on wooded rural acerage. Both full sun in Massachusetts.
Always used flood cwf-uv5 on both, pressure treated pine. Lake deck 30 yrs old. Reapplied every other year. Small amount of green algae sanded off railings, otherwise protects wood very well. Have never replaced any wood. Wooded location product worked fine, same pattetn, no algae except hidden behind one post.
Easy cleaning, easy application, no stripping. Light sanding on top of lakeside railings.
Sticking with a product that works.
Can I put CW-UV5 Oil over a fence that has been covered with CWF-UV for about 15 years ??
I would ask Flood on this.
In south western Canada, On a set of stairs.. Medium traffic,fully open to sun , rain, needs redoing every year. Disappointing.looking for a better product.