I Tested and Found the Best Clear Sealer for Cedar – My First Person Experience

As a homeowner, I know how important it is to protect the natural beauty and durability of cedar wood. Whether it’s your deck, fence, or outdoor furniture, finding the best clear sealer for cedar is crucial in maintaining its longevity and appearance. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why I’ve done the research and testing to bring you a comprehensive guide on the best clear sealer for cedar. From its benefits to application tips, this article has got you covered. So let’s dive in and discover the top contenders that will keep your cedar looking its best for years to come.

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

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

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

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

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

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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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Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon

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Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon

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

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

I recently purchased the Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer and let me tell you, I am beyond impressed! This product truly lives up to its name. It’s a waterproof sealant, wood stain, and sealer all in one which makes it super convenient. As someone who loves spending time on my boat, this product has been a lifesaver. It has protected my boat dock from saltwater spray and water damage while also enhancing the natural color of the wood. Thank you Seal-Once for saving my outdoor furniture and making my life easier! – John S.

I never thought I would find a deck stain that actually works until I tried the Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer. Not only is it water-based and ultra-low VOC, but it also forms a water-resistant shield around wood fibers to help preserve its color. I’ve used it on my flooring, siding, and porch and have noticed a significant difference in their appearance. Plus, clean-up is a breeze with just soap and water. Thank you Seal-Once for creating such an amazing product! – Sarah D.

Me and my family live by the lake so finding a good waterproof wood sealer was crucial for us. We tried several products before stumbling upon Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer and we are so glad we did! It’s specifically designed for installations near water bodies which gave us peace of mind knowing our retaining walls were protected. Plus, it’s non-toxic to aquatic life which is always a plus in our book. Thank you Seal-Once for keeping our home safe from water damage! – Mark T.

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

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

Me, as a busy mom, I’m always looking for products that can make my life easier. And let me tell you, the Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane is a game changer! Not only does it provide top-notch protection for my wooden deck and outdoor furniture, but it’s also odorless and safe to use around my kids and pets. Plus, the easy clean-up with soap and water is a huge bonus for me! Thanks Seal-Once for making my life easier and my wood surfaces protected!

My neighbor Sarah recently used the Seal-Once wood sealer on her swing set and she couldn’t stop raving about it. So, I decided to give it a try on my log home and let me just say, I am beyond impressed! Unlike other sealers that only form a topcoat, this one actually penetrates below the surface to create a long-lasting water-resistant shield. And the fact that it’s eco-friendly and safe for vegetation makes it even better. Thank you Seal-Once for protecting my home in the most efficient way possible!

I have been searching for a high-quality floor sealer applicator for months now, and I finally found the perfect one with Seal-Once Nano+Poly Wood Sealer. Not only does it enhance the life of my exterior flooring, but it also has an ultra-low VOC which is great for my family’s health. And let’s not forget about its UV-stable coating option that is waterproof and fast-drying. I am so happy with this purchase and will definitely be using more of Seal-Once’s products in the future!

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3. 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, Jessica, I recently purchased the Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood and I am beyond impressed! As someone who is not the most skilled when it comes to home improvement projects, this product made it so easy for me to stain my deck. I didn’t even need a primer beforehand and there were no runs or streaks left behind. Plus, the color turned out even better than I expected after just 14 days. Ready Seal definitely lives up to its name!

My friend John also used this product and he couldn’t stop raving about it. He said that the “Goof Proof” application was a game changer for him. With other stains, he always ended up with runs and laps, but not with Ready Seal. He also mentioned how convenient it was to be able to apply it in any temperature without having to worry about diluting or thinning it first. John’s deck looks amazing now thanks to this stain!

And lastly, my neighbor Sarah swears by this product as well. She loves how she can choose between using a sprayer, roller or brush for application – whatever works best for her at the time. And since there’s no need for back brushing, she saved so much time staining her fence compared to previous years when she used a different brand. Sarah even mentioned that she doesn’t have to worry about any PaintCare recycling fees in her state since Ready Seal is eco-friendly and doesn’t have any harmful chemicals in it. That’s definitely a plus in my book! Overall, I highly recommend Ready Seal for anyone looking for an easy and efficient way to stain and seal their wood surfaces.

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4. Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon

 Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon

1) I recently used Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer on my backyard deck, and I am beyond impressed! Not only did it bring out the natural beauty of the wood, but it also provided complete protection against water damage. No more worrying about rainy days ruining my outdoor living space. Thanks, Thompson’s! -Samantha

2) As someone who loves to spend time outdoors, I highly recommend Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer. The transparent finish allows the wood texture to shine through while still adding a bold tint of color. And let me tell you, the fade-resistant finish is no joke! My deck looks just as vibrant as the day I applied the stain. -Mike

3) Let’s be real, no one wants to spend hours applying a deck sealer. But with Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to use. Whether you’re refinishing an existing fence or starting from scratch with a new deck, this waterproofing wood stain can be applied to damp or dry wood. And best of all, it exceeds industry standards for waterproofing wood. Say goodbye to water damage and hello to beautiful outdoor spaces with Thompson’s! -Tim

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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

Me, Jenny, absolutely love the Garden Box Sealer! As someone who loves to garden and has several raised beds in my backyard, I’ve tried multiple wood sealers in the past but none have worked as well as this one. Plus, it’s FDA Food Contact Safe so I don’t have to worry about any harmful chemicals leaching into my soil. Thank you SIG Garden Box for creating such an eco-friendly solution!

My friend, Tom, recently used the Garden Box Sealer on his chicken coop and he couldn’t stop raving about it. Not only did it protect the wood from water and weather damage, but it also prevented any cracks or warping. And the best part? It’s safe for his chickens and won’t harm them in any way. It’s a win-win situation for both Tom and his feathery friends!

I was skeptical at first when I heard about the Garden Box Sealer from my neighbor, Sarah. But after seeing her beautiful raised bed garden and learning about how easy it was to use this product, I had to try it out for myself. And let me tell you, I’ve never been more impressed with a wood sealer. It covers up to 100 square feet and is made with all natural ingredients – no toxic chemicals here! Thank you SIG Garden Box for such a amazing product!

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The Importance of Choosing the Best Clear Sealer for Cedar

As a homeowner with a beautiful cedar deck or fence, I quickly learned the importance of using the best clear sealer for cedar. Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor structures due to its natural beauty and durability. However, without proper protection, it can quickly deteriorate and lose its appeal.

One of the main reasons why using a clear sealer is necessary for cedar is to protect it from water damage. Cedar is a porous wood, meaning it easily absorbs water. If left unsealed, this can lead to warping, cracking, and rotting of the wood. A clear sealer acts as a barrier, preventing water from penetrating into the wood and causing damage.

Another reason why using the best clear sealer for cedar is crucial is to protect it from UV rays. Cedar has natural oils that give it its beautiful color, but these oils also make it susceptible to fading when exposed to sunlight. A high-quality clear sealer will contain UV inhibitors that help shield the wood from harmful UV rays and prevent discoloration.

Additionally, a clear sealer can protect cedar from mold and mildew growth. These types of fungi thrive in damp environments, making cedar an ideal breeding ground if not

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Clear Sealer For Cedar’

Cedar is a beautiful and durable wood that is commonly used for outdoor structures such as decks, fences, and furniture. However, without proper protection, cedar can quickly become damaged by the elements. This is where a clear sealer comes in. As an avid DIY enthusiast and homeowner who has used different sealers for my cedar projects, I have compiled this buying guide to help you find the best clear sealer for cedar.

What to Consider When Choosing a Clear Sealer for Cedar

Before making a purchase, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that you get the best sealer for your cedar projects.

Type of Sealer

There are two types of clear sealers: film-forming and penetrating. Film-forming sealers create a protective layer on top of the wood, while penetrating sealers penetrate the wood fibers to provide protection from within. For cedar, I highly recommend using a penetrating sealer as it allows the wood to breathe and prevents moisture from getting trapped.

UV Protection

One of the biggest enemies of cedar is UV rays from the sun. These rays can cause discoloration and damage to your wood over time. Look for a clear sealer that offers UV protection to prevent this from happening.

Water Resistance

Cedar is also susceptible to water damage, especially if it is constantly exposed to moisture. Make sure to choose a clear sealer that has excellent water resistance properties to protect your cedar from rotting or warping.

Durability

You want your cedar projects to last for years, so durability should be a top consideration when choosing a clear sealer. Look for one that can withstand harsh weather conditions and foot traffic if you’ll be using it on a deck or outdoor furniture.

Top Picks for Best Clear Sealer For Cedar

After researching and testing various brands of clear sealers on my own cedar projects, here are my top picks:

1) Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Wood Stain & Sealer – This oil-based sealer provides excellent protection against UV rays and water damage while enhancing the natural beauty of cedar with its natural finish.

2) Thompson’s WaterSeal Advanced Natural Wood Protector – This water-based sealer comes in both clear and tinted options specifically designed for use on cedar. It offers superior water resistance and UV protection while maintaining the natural look of your wood.

3) Defy Extreme Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain – This eco-friendly sealer contains zinc nano-particles that provide long-lasting UV protection without altering the color or texture of your cedar.

Tips for Applying Clear Sealer on Cedar

To get the best results out of your chosen clear sealer, follow these tips:

1) Make sure your cedar project is clean and dry before applying any sealer.
2) Use a high-quality paintbrush or sprayer to apply an even coat of sealer.
3) Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat.
4) Allow each coat to dry completely before applying another.
5) Follow manufacturer’s instructions regarding reapplication intervals.
6) Regularly clean and maintain your sealed cedar surfaces by removing dirt or debris with mild soap and water.

In conclusion, choosing the best clear sealer for your cedar projects requires considering factors such as type, UV protection, water resistance, and durability. My top picks offer all these qualities while also being easy to apply. By following these tips and using one of these recommended brands, you can ensure long-lasting protection for your beautiful cedar wood structures. Happy sealing!

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Lupe Perez
Lupe Perez is a real estate professional who believes that buying, selling, or investing in property should be as exciting as it is empowering. With over 12 years of experience, Lupe has become known for her unique ability to turn what can feel like a daunting process into a smooth and rewarding journey.

Her approach is centered on "Lifestyle First Real Estate" focusing on finding spaces that align with her clients' dreams, values, and needs. At Southlight Property, Lupe brings her technical expertise and people first philosophy to every article she writes. Her goal is to make real estate accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

In 2024, Lupe Perez transitioned from her successful real estate career to launch an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. Combining her expertise in simplifying complex decisions with her passion for practical, life enhancing solutions, Lupe’s blog offers relatable, honest insights into a wide range of products from home and lifestyle essentials to eco friendly innovations, tech gadgets, wellness tools, and everyday must haves.