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10 Best Clear Deck Sealers 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

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

The Ready Seal 512 is an oil-based wood stain and sealer that offers several notable advantages. Its ease of application stands out, as it can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush and does not require a primer, back brushing, or wet-line application. The 'Goof Proof' application ensures no laps, runs, or streaks, making it user-friendly even for those with minimal painting experience. Additionally, it can be applied at any temperature, providing flexibility for various weather conditions.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,475
UV Protection
Water Resistance
Durability

Most important from
8650 reviews

UV Protection
Minimal color selection might be a downside, but the available shades are effective in blocking UV damage.
Water Resistance
Ready Seal penetrates the wood deeply, offering excellent protection and longevity.
Durability
Ready Seal penetrates the wood deeply, offering excellent protection and longevity.
Ease of Application
The 'Goof Proof' feature truly delivers, preventing runs and streaks, and ensuring a smooth application.
#2
9.6 score

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain is a versatile product designed for a variety of exterior surfaces including wood, concrete, and brick. It provides excellent waterproofing capabilities, helping to protect your outdoor structures from water damage. The clear finish enhances the natural texture of the material without hiding its grain, which is ideal if you want to maintain the authentic look of your deck or patio.

Rating
9.6
UV Protection
Water Resistance
Ease of Application

Most important from
4592 reviews

UV Protection
The UV-resistant formula ensures that it doesn't fade or peel under the sun's harsh rays.
Water Resistance
The clear stain enhances the natural beauty of the wood while providing a robust waterproofing barrier.
Ease of Application
The aerosol can provides a consistent and smooth spray, ensuring even coverage.
#3
9.4 score

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

The Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer stands out for its comprehensive protection features. It provides robust UV protection, which is crucial for preventing sun damage to your deck. Its water-resistant capabilities are notable, forming a shield around wood fibers at the cellular level, making it ideal for areas exposed to constant moisture, such as boat docks and outdoor furniture.

Rating
9.4
Water Resistance
Durability
Ease of Application

Most important from
1812 reviews

Water Resistance
Water beads up and runs right off, the wood fibers seem very well protected and sealed.
Durability
It has good coverage, goes on easily and quickly, and the result is long-lasting.
Ease of Application
Goes on like a dream and being water-based makes for easy cleanup.

Top 10 Best Clear Deck Sealers 2025 in the United States

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

UV Protection: robust UV protection
Water Resistance: water-resistant
Mildew and Mold Resistance: guards against mildew and mold
Ease of Application: user-friendly formula

Ready Seal 500 Clear, 5-Gallon Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer, 5 Gallon

UV Protection: excellent
Water Resistance: yes
Mildew and Mold Resistance: yes
Ease of Application: no primer, various tools, any temperature
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Buying Guide for the Best Clear Deck Sealers

Choosing the right clear deck sealer is crucial to protect your deck from the elements and keep it looking great for years. A clear deck sealer will help to preserve the natural beauty of the wood while providing a protective barrier against moisture, UV rays, and mildew. When selecting a clear deck sealer, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and achieve the best results for your deck.
UV ProtectionUV protection is a measure of how well the sealer can protect the wood from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. This is important because UV rays can cause the wood to fade, crack, and deteriorate over time. Sealers with high UV protection will help maintain the wood's natural color and extend the life of your deck. If your deck is in a sunny area, look for a sealer with strong UV protection. For shaded areas, UV protection is still beneficial but may not need to be as high.
Water ResistanceWater resistance indicates how well the sealer can repel water and prevent it from penetrating the wood. This is crucial for preventing water damage, such as warping, swelling, and rot. Sealers with high water resistance will form a barrier that keeps moisture out, which is especially important in areas with high rainfall or humidity. If your deck is exposed to a lot of moisture, choose a sealer with excellent water resistance. For drier climates, moderate water resistance may suffice.
Mildew and Mold ResistanceMildew and mold resistance refers to the sealer's ability to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the wood surface. This is important for maintaining the appearance and structural integrity of your deck, as mold and mildew can cause discoloration and decay. If your deck is in a damp or shaded area where mold and mildew are more likely to grow, opt for a sealer with strong mildew and mold resistance. In drier, sunnier areas, this feature is still beneficial but may not be as critical.
DurabilityDurability measures how long the sealer will last before it needs to be reapplied. A more durable sealer will provide longer-lasting protection, reducing the frequency of maintenance. This is important for saving time and effort in the long run. If you prefer low-maintenance options, look for a sealer with high durability. For those who don't mind reapplying the sealer more frequently, a less durable option may be acceptable.
Ease of ApplicationEase of application refers to how simple and straightforward it is to apply the sealer to your deck. This can include factors such as the drying time, the need for multiple coats, and the type of applicator required. A sealer that is easy to apply will save you time and effort during the application process. If you are a DIY enthusiast or prefer to do the work yourself, choose a sealer that is user-friendly and easy to apply. For those who plan to hire a professional, ease of application may be less of a concern.

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