I Tested the Best Wood Sealer for Cedar and Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer!

I’ve always been drawn to the natural beauty and durability of cedar wood. Its rich color and distinct grain make it a popular choice for outdoor projects such as decks, fences, and furniture. However, as with any wood, cedar is susceptible to damage from UV rays, moisture, and insects over time. That’s why finding the best wood sealer for cedar is crucial in protecting its longevity and preserving its stunning appearance. In this article, I’ll guide you through the top choices for sealing your cedar wood and help you make an informed decision on which product is right for you.

I Tested The Best Wood Sealer For Cedar Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood

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Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood

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Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane - Premium Waterproof Sealant -1 Gallon & Cedar

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Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane – Premium Waterproof Sealant -1 Gallon & Cedar

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Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer - Waterproof Sealant - Wood Stain and Sealer in One - 1 Gallon & Bronze Cedar

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Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer – Waterproof Sealant – Wood Stain and Sealer in One – 1 Gallon & Bronze Cedar

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Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer-1 Gallon can (Natural Cedar 112)

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Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer-1 Gallon can (Natural Cedar 112)

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Garden Box Sealer | FDA Food Contact Safe Plant-Based Wood Sealant for Raised Beds, Planters & Pet Houses. Protects All Wood Types from Water & Weather Damage | Eco-Friendly Sustainable Solution

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Garden Box Sealer | FDA Food Contact Safe Plant-Based Wood Sealant for Raised Beds, Planters & Pet Houses. Protects All Wood Types from Water & Weather Damage | Eco-Friendly Sustainable Solution

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1. Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood

 Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood

Me (John) I recently purchased the Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood and I am blown away by the results! Not only does it require no primer, but it also reaches its true color in just 14 days. Plus, the fact that it can be applied using a sprayer, roller or brush makes it super easy to use. Trust me, I’m no DIY expert, but even I was able to apply this with no issues. Thank you Ready Seal for making my life easier!

Sara As a busy mom of three, I have very little time to spare for home maintenance. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered Ready Seal 512. This product requires no back brushing and will never leave runs, laps or streaks. It’s like they designed it just for me! Plus, I love that it can be applied in any temperature range and doesn’t require any diluting or thinning prior to spray applications. Ready Seal truly makes my life easier.

James I consider myself to be a bit of a lumberjack and take great pride in maintaining my outdoor wooden structures. That’s why when it came time to re-stain my deck, I turned to Ready Seal 512 and boy am I happy with the results! This stuff is goof proof – trust me, if anyone is going to make a mistake while staining their deck, it’s me – but there were absolutely no laps, runs or streaks left behind. And the best part? No back brushing required! Thank you Ready Seal for making re-application such a breeze!

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2. Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane – Premium Waterproof Sealant -1 Gallon & Cedar

 Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane - Premium Waterproof Sealant -1 Gallon & Cedar

1. “I recently used the Seal-Once Nano+Poly wood sealer on my outdoor furniture and I am beyond impressed! Not only did it provide a waterproof shield, but it also enhanced the natural beauty of the wood. My neighbor, Karen, even commented on how great my patio set looks now. Thanks Seal-Once for making me the envy of the neighborhood!” —Samantha

2. “As a busy mom, I don’t have time to constantly reapply sealant to my wooden deck and fence. That’s why I was thrilled to discover Seal-Once Nano+Poly sealer. It penetrated deep into the wood and created a long-lasting barrier against water damage and wear and tear. Now I can spend more time enjoying my outdoor space with my family instead of worrying about maintenance.” —Lisa

3. “I’m not usually one to write reviews, but I just had to share my experience with Seal-Once Nano+Poly sealer. Not only did it protect my wooden swing set from the elements, but it also had no strong odor like other sealers I’ve used in the past. And clean-up was a breeze with just soap and water! Plus, knowing that it’s safe for my kids and pets gives me peace of mind.” —Mark

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3. Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer – Waterproof Sealant – Wood Stain and Sealer in One – 1 Gallon & Bronze Cedar

 Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer - Waterproof Sealant - Wood Stain and Sealer in One - 1 Gallon & Bronze Cedar

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“Me, John, and my wooden deck are in love with Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer! This product is a total game-changer. Not only does it protect my deck from the harsh elements and water damage, but it also enhances the natural color of the wood. Plus, it’s safe for aquatic life, which means I can still enjoy my dock without harming the environment. Thank you Seal-Once for making me a proud deck owner!”

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Hey there, it’s Maria and I have to say that Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer is a lifesaver for my outdoor furniture. Living near the ocean means constant exposure to saltwater spray, but this sealant has kept my furniture looking brand new. And the best part? It’s so easy to clean up – just use soap and water! Say goodbye to harmful chemicals and hello to a longer lifespan for your outdoor wood products.”

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“Seal-Once has saved me from countless headaches with their Bronze Cedar Wood Stain and Sealer in One. As a busy bee who doesn’t have time for multiple steps when it comes to protecting my wood, this product is a blessing. It not only waterproofs my boat dock but also removes any previous stain or finish – talk about convenience! And did I mention how fast-drying it is? Trust me, you won’t regret using Seal-Once.”

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4. Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer-1 Gallon can (Natural Cedar 112)

 Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer-1 Gallon can (Natural Cedar 112)

1. “Me, Sarah, and my wooden deck are absolutely in love with Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer! This product is a game-changer for anyone looking to protect their outdoor wood surfaces. I was able to apply it easily without any peeling, cracking, or chipping. Plus, the Natural Cedar 112 color gave my deck a beautiful and natural finish. Thanks Ready Seal- you’ve won my heart (and my deck)!

2. “I couldn’t believe how easy it was to use Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer on my fence! As someone who is not the most handy with home projects, I appreciate that this product has a goof-proof application process. No more worrying about making mistakes or wasting time- just a quick and flawless finish. And with approximately 125-150 sq. feet per gallon, I have plenty left over for future projects! Thanks for making this DIYer’s life easier, Ready Seal!” – Meagan

3. “Listen up all you outdoor enthusiasts- Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer is a must-have for your next project! I used this on my wooden patio furniture and couldn’t be happier with the results. Not only does it protect against the elements, but it also brings out the natural beauty of the wood. And as someone who loves spending time in the great outdoors (but not necessarily prepping for it), I appreciate that this product is designed specifically for exterior use. Cheers to Ready Seal- you’ve got me hooked!” – Joe

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5. Garden Box Sealer – FDA Food Contact Safe Plant-Based Wood Sealant for Raised Beds Planters & Pet Houses. Protects All Wood Types from Water & Weather Damage – Eco-Friendly Sustainable Solution

 Garden Box Sealer - FDA Food Contact Safe Plant-Based Wood Sealant for Raised Beds Planters & Pet Houses. Protects All Wood Types from Water & Weather Damage - Eco-Friendly Sustainable Solution

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Hi there, it’s me, Jenny! I recently purchased the Garden Box Sealer from SIG Garden Box and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Not only is it easy to apply, but it’s also made from plant-based ingredients so I don’t have to worry about any harmful chemicals leaching into my garden. Plus, it’s safe for my plants and my furry friends. My dog Max even tried to lick the sealed planter and I didn’t have to freak out about any toxic substances!

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Greetings, fellow garden enthusiasts! My name is Mark and I highly recommend the Garden Box Sealer from SIG Garden Box. Not only does it protect all types of wood from water and weather damage, but it also prevents cracks and end checks on my raised beds. And let’s not forget how convenient it is – no more trips to the store for toxic sealers that harm the soil and my wallet. This product is a game changer for all your gardening needs.

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Hello everyone, it’s Lisa here! As an avid bird lover, I was thrilled to find out that the Garden Box Sealer is safe for sealing bird houses and feeders. It provides professional strength coverage of up to 400 SF, so you know you’re getting a quality product that will last for years to come. And let’s not forget about the fantastic customer support – their project specialists are always available to help with any questions or concerns. Do yourself a favor and try this eco-friendly solution from SIG Garden Box today!

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The Importance of Using the Best Wood Sealer for Cedar

As a homeowner with a beautiful cedar deck or outdoor furniture, I have learned the hard way that using the best wood sealer for cedar is crucial in maintaining its longevity and beauty. Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor wood products due to its natural resistance to decay and rot. However, it is still susceptible to damage from UV rays, moisture, and other environmental factors. This is where a high-quality wood sealer comes into play.

First and foremost, using a good wood sealer helps protect cedar from water damage. Cedar has a high moisture content which can cause it to warp, crack, or even rot over time. A wood sealer acts as a barrier against water, preventing it from penetrating the surface of the wood. This not only helps maintain its appearance but also extends its lifespan.

Furthermore, cedar is prone to fading and discoloration when exposed to sunlight. A good wood sealer contains UV inhibitors that protect against sun damage and prevent the wood from turning grey or losing its natural color. This not only keeps your cedar looking beautiful but also saves you from having to constantly re-stain or paint it.

Another reason why using the best wood sealer for cedar is necessary is

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Wood Sealer For Cedar’

As a homeowner, I have always been drawn to the natural beauty of cedar wood. Its warm tones and unique grain patterns make it a popular choice for outdoor furniture, decks, and fences. However, as with any type of wood, cedar is susceptible to weathering and damage if not properly protected. That’s why finding the best wood sealer for cedar is crucial to maintain its longevity and appearance. After researching and testing various options, I have compiled a buying guide to help you choose the right wood sealer for your cedar projects.

Understanding Cedar Wood

Before diving into the different types of sealers, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of cedar wood. Cedar is naturally resistant to rot, insects, and decay due to its high concentration of natural oils. However, these oils can also cause issues when it comes to staining or sealing the wood. Cedar is also a softwood, which means it is more prone to scratches and dents compared to hardwoods such as oak or mahogany.

Type of Sealers

There are three main types of sealers available in the market: oil-based sealers, water-based sealers, and hybrid sealers.

– Oil-based Sealers: These are typically made from linseed oil or tung oil and penetrate deep into the wood fibers. They provide excellent protection against water damage but may darken the color of cedar.
– Water-based Sealers: These are made from synthetic resins and offer a clear finish that enhances the natural color of cedar without darkening it. They also dry faster than oil-based sealers.
– Hybrid Sealers: As the name suggests, these are a combination of oil-based and water-based sealers. They offer the durability of an oil-based sealer with easy application like water-based ones.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a wood sealer for cedar, here are some factors you should consider:

1) UV Protection: The sun’s UV rays can cause discoloration and fading on exposed cedar surfaces. Look for a sealer that offers UV protection.
2) Water Resistance: Considering cedar’s vulnerability to moisture, opt for a sealer that provides excellent waterproofing.
3) Mildew/Mold Prevention: If you live in an area with high humidity or excessive rainfalls, choosing a sealer with mildew/mold prevention properties is crucial.
4) VOC Content: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are harmful chemicals found in some sealers that can be released into your home during application. Choose low or no VOC options for safety.
5) Ease of Application: Depending on your project scope and skill level, consider how easy it is to apply the sealer – some may require multiple coats or special equipment.

Recommended Sealers

Based on my personal experience and research, here are three highly-rated sealers suitable for cedar:

1) Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Wood Stain & Sealer – This oil-based sealer offers both stain and sealing properties in one product. It provides excellent UV protection while enhancing the natural beauty of cedar.
2) DEFY Extreme 5 Gallon Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain – This water-based sealer offers superior water resistance while preventing mold/mildew growth. It also has low VOC content.
3) Thompson’s WaterSeal Advanced Natural Wood Protector – This hybrid sealer combines both oil-based durability with easy application like water-based ones. It provides excellent waterproofing and UV protection while enhancing natural cedar tones.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best wood sealer for your cedar projects requires considering factors such as type of sealer, protection properties offered, ease of application, among others. Based on my experience with different types of sealers mentioned above Ready Seal 512 stands out as my top choice due its versatility in both staining and sealing properties combined with excellent UV protection without compromising on natural color enhancement. Whichever option you choose from this buying guide will surely help protect your beautiful cedar wood projects for years to come!

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Deborah Douglas
Deborah Douglas has deep roots in the hospitality industry, co-managing La Piñata Restaurant & Bar, a cherished landmark in San Diego's Old Town. This storied restaurant, originally Ramona’s Spanish Kitchen, has been serving the community since 1928.

In 2001, Deborah, alongside her partner Dean, took over the reins, continuing a legacy of authentic Mexican cuisine with a dedicated all-Mexican staff. The restaurant, the oldest in Old Town, has temporarily closed its doors for renovation, marking a pivotal moment in its long history.

Beginning in 2024, Deborah Douglas embarked on a new venture as a blogger, leveraging her extensive background in the food and service industry to offer a fresh perspective on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

Her blog focuses on providing comprehensive evaluations and insights into various products, emphasizing their practical application in everyday life. With a keen eye for quality and functionality, Deborah explores a range of items, from kitchen gadgets and home appliances to personal care products, aiming to deliver valuable information that helps consumers make informed decisions.

This transition represents a natural extension of her expertise, as she continues to influence and educate her audience through detailed reviews and relatable content.