My Best Clear Deck Sealers
Clear deck sealers are different from deck stains. A true deck sealer is completely clear with no added color. Its primary function is to weatherproof the wood by repelling water, but it offers little to no UV protection. The color in a deck stain is what shields wood from sun damage and prevents graying.
Best Clear Deck Sealers – Expert Reviewed
Key Points About Clear Deck Sealers:
- No UV protection – The wood will gray quickly due to sun exposure.
- Limited mildew and mold resistance – Some sealers contain mild inhibitors, but protection is minimal.
- Frequent reapplication – Clear sealers typically last between 3 to 12 months before requiring a new coat.
🪵 Buying Guide: Clear Wood Sealers for Decks
Clear wood sealers offer basic water protection without adding any color. They’re perfect for showcasing the wood’s natural appearance, but come with trade-offs in durability—especially against UV rays.
These sealers must be reapplied every 6 to 12 months depending on exposure. They are best for newer decks, wood furniture, or when you want a bare-wood finish that still resists water and mildew.
Explore our top clear sealers tested for effectiveness, ease of reapplication, and wood compatibility across all climates.
Pro Tip: Clear Wood Sealers
While many homeowners love the natural look of a clear wood sealer, they generally aren’t worth it. Expect oxidation and graying within months. For longer-lasting protection, consider a tinted stain with UV blockers.
Pro Tip: Best Transparent Sealer
Consider a lightly tinted transparent sealer, such as Armstrong Clark in Natural Tone, Cedar Tone, or Redwood tone for better UV protection.
🪵 Buying Guide: Clear Wood Sealers for Decks
Clear wood sealers offer basic water protection without adding any color. They’re perfect for showcasing the wood’s natural appearance, but come with trade-offs in durability—especially against UV rays.
These sealers must be reapplied every 6 to 12 months depending on exposure. They are best for newer decks, wood furniture, or when you want a bare-wood finish that still resists water and mildew.
Explore our top clear wood sealers tested for effectiveness, ease of reapplication, and wood compatibility across all climates.
Click here for more information on Clear Sealers and UV Protection for Wood.
Summary: Choosing a Clear Wood Sealer
A clear wood sealer is ideal for homeowners who want to protect their exterior wood without altering its natural appearance. While clear sealers effectively repel water and prevent mildew, they typically offer limited UV protection and may allow the wood to gray over time. For 2025, top-rated clear wood sealers include Defy Extreme Clear and Armstrong Clark (best transparent sealer), both known for penetrating performance and eco-friendly formulas. Clear sealers are best used on newer wood where color preservation isn’t a priority, but water repellency is.