Do you love the warm, inviting look of cedar wood? That beautiful reddish-brown color makes decks, fences, and siding truly stand out. But here’s the tough part: cedar is a soft wood. It loves soaking up moisture and can quickly turn gray or start to rot if you don’t protect it. Choosing the right wood sealer feels like a huge puzzle. Should you pick an oil-based one, or maybe a water-based product? Do you need UV protection, or just something waterproof?
Dealing with mildew, fading, and water damage can be frustrating and costly to fix later. You want a sealer that works hard to keep your cedar looking gorgeous for years, not just a few months. This guide cuts through all the confusing labels and technical jargon. We will clearly explain what makes a sealer perfect for cedar.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly which type of sealer fits your project and budget. We will show you the best options available today. Get ready to protect your beautiful cedar investment the right way. Let’s dive into finding the ultimate wood sealer for your cedar!
Top Wood Sealer For Cedar Recommendations
- Requires no primer. Ready Seal is darkest when first applied. It reaches its true color in approximately 14 days. Do not apply Ready Seal over painted or newly stained surfaces. Sealed surfaces inhibit penetration.
- May be applied using sprayer, roller or brush onto the woods surface.
- Requires no back brushing and will nerver leave runs, laps, or streaks.
- Requires no wet-line application, the product will blend itself and can be applied in any temperature range for proper application.
- Requires no diluting or thinning prior to spray applications.
- Requires no primer. Ready Seal is darkest when first applied. It reaches its true color in approximately 14 days. Do not apply Ready Seal over painted or newly stained surfaces. Sealed surfaces inhibit penetration.
- May be applied using sprayer, roller or brush onto the woods surface.
- Requires no back brushing and will nerver leave runs, laps, or streaks.
- Requires no wet-line application, the product will blend itself and can be applied in any temperature range for proper application.
- Requires no diluting or thinning prior to spray applications.
- WATERPROOFING STAIN – Bring out the beauty of your outdoor wood with Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain. Along with adding lightly tinted color, it’s a deck sealer that prevents water damage to help you maintain your outdoor living spaces.
- SEMI-TRANSPARENT WOOD STAIN – This outdoor wood stain provides a semi-transparent finish. It will hide the wood grain, but still allow the wood texture to show. It provides complete protection while adding lightly tinted color.
- FADE RESISTANT FINISH – The advanced polymers in this outdoor wood and deck stain deliver fade-resistant color so it stays looking great year-round. The coating resists UV damage, so you can apply with confidence.
- EASY TO USE – Whether you’re refinishing an existing fence or putting the finishing touches on a new deck, this waterproofing wood stain is easy to apply. It can be applied to damp or dry wood. Clean the surface thoroughly prior to use for best results.
- EXCEEDS INDUSTRY STANDARDS – Thompson’s Waterproofing Exterior Wood Stain exceeds Industry Standard ASTM D-4446 for waterproofing wood.
- GARDEN BED WOOD SEALER - For Use On Cedar And All Wood Types Used In Raised Bed Gardens. Deep Penetrating, Natural Oils, Bond With Wood Fibers To Protect Wood For A Decade Or More
- NON-TOXIC - FDA Food Contact Safe. Plant Based With No Toxic Chemicals That Can Leach Into Your Garden's Soil And A Natural Citrus Scent. WARNING: Never use sealers made of acrylics, polymers, silane/siloxane/silicone for vegetable gardens. They are derived from petroleum and toxic. If the label says the product contains any of those ingredients return it and purchase a 100% plant based option.
- PLANT SAFE - No Toxic Chemicals To Harm Your Plants, Vegetables Or You. Ingredients You Can Understand (Listed In Product Description Section). ALSO GREAT FOR PET PROJECTS. Seal Your Chicken Coup Or Dog House
- PROFESSIONAL STRENGTH - Covers Up To 200 SF. Used By Professional Growers That Are Required To Have Their Soils Tested For Harmful Chemicals
- MULTI-PURPOSE - Safe For Sealing and Protecting Bird Houses, Bird Feeders, Dog Houses, Chicken Coops. Safe For Animals And Pets
- GARDEN BED WOOD SEALER - For Use On Cedar And All Wood Types Used In Raised Bed Gardens. Deep Penetrating, Natural Oils, Bond With Wood Fibers To Protect Wood For A Decade Or More
- NON-TOXIC - FDA Food Contact Safe. Plant Based With No Toxic Chemicals That Can Leach Into Your Garden's Soil And A Natural Citrus Scent. WARNING: Never use sealers made of acrylics, polymers, silane/siloxane/silicone for vegetable gardens. They are derived from petroleum and toxic. If the label says the product contains any of those ingredients return it and purchase a 100% plant based option.
- PLANT SAFE - No Toxic Chemicals To Harm Your Plants, Vegetables Or You. Ingredients You Can Understand (Listed In Product Description Section). ALSO GREAT FOR PET PROJECTS. Seal Your Chicken Coup Or Dog House
- PROFESSIONAL STRENGTH - Covers Up To 400 SF. Used By Professional Growers That Are Required To Have Their Soils Tested For Harmful Chemicals
- MULTI-PURPOSE - Safe For Sealing and Protecting Bird Houses, Bird Feeders, Dog Houses, Chicken Coops. Safe For Animals And Pets
- WATERPROOFING STAIN – Bring out the beauty of your outdoor wood with Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain. Along with adding smooth color, it’s a deck sealer that prevents water damage to help you maintain your outdoor living spaces.
- TRANSPARENT WOOD STAIN – This outdoor wood stain provides a transparent finish. It will hide the wood grain, but still allow the wood texture to show. It provides complete protection while adding boldly tinted color.
- FADE RESISTANT FINISH – The advanced polymers in this outdoor wood and deck stain deliver fade-resistant color so it stays looking great year-round. The coating resists UV damage, so you can apply with confidence.
- EASY TO USE – Whether you’re refinishing an existing fence or putting the finishing touches on a new deck, this waterproofing wood stain is easy to apply. It can be applied to damp or dry wood. Clean the surface thoroughly prior to use for best results.
- EXCEEDS INDUSTRY STANDARDS – Thompson’s Waterproofing Exterior Wood Stain exceeds Industry Standard ASTM D-4446 for waterproofing wood.
- Year-Round Protection in Just One Coat
- Helps Prevent Water Damage
- Exceeds Industry Standard ASTM-D4446 for Waterproofing Wood
- Crystal-clear sealer and sunblock protects wood and prevents yellowing
- Ready mix, ready to use semi-transparent wood stain and sealant all-in-one
- Waterproofing deck and fence protection
- Provides a resistant stain coating & seal
- SUNBLOCK UV defense
- Exclusive SCUFF GUARD Technology
Choosing the Best Wood Sealer for Your Cedar
Cedar wood is beautiful. It smells great too! But cedar needs protection from the weather. A good wood sealer keeps your cedar looking new for years. This guide helps you pick the right sealer.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a cedar sealer, check these important things:
- **UV Protection:** Sunlight fades cedar fast. Look for sealers with strong UV blockers. This stops the wood from turning gray.
- **Water Repellency:** The sealer must push water away. Water causes mold and rot. Check if the label mentions “water-beading” or “water-resistant.”
- **Mildew and Mold Resistance:** Cedar can grow fuzzy stuff outside. Good sealers have chemicals that fight mold and mildew growth.
- **Finish Type:** Do you want a clear look or a tinted color? Clear sealers let the natural cedar color show. Toners add a slight tint, often amber or brown.
- **Durability/Longevity:** How long does the protection last? Some last one year; others last three. Longer-lasting sealers mean less work later.
Important Materials in Sealers
Wood sealers use different liquids to carry the protective stuff into the wood. The main types are oil-based and water-based.
Oil-Based Sealers
These sealers use natural oils, like tung or linseed oil, mixed with solvents. Oil soaks deep into the cedar. This gives great protection against water. Oil-based sealers often look richer. They can take longer to dry, and they have a stronger smell during application.
Water-Based Sealers (Acrylic/Latex)
These are easier to clean up—just use soap and water. They dry faster and don’t smell as strong. Modern water-based acrylic sealers offer very good UV protection. They are often better at staying clear without yellowing over time.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of the sealer affects how well it protects your wood.
What Makes Quality Better?
- High Solids Content: This means more of the liquid in the can is the actual protective material, not just water or solvents. More solids mean a thicker, stronger coat.
- Penetrating Formula: The best sealers soak deep into the wood fibers. They protect from the inside out, not just sitting on top.
- Resin Quality: High-quality resins (the binding agents) help the sealer stick better and resist peeling.
What Lowers Quality?
- Thin Coats: Applying the sealer too thin reduces protection significantly. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended coverage rate.
- Poor Surface Prep: If you seal dirty or wet wood, the sealer won’t stick well. Dirt and old finishes block the sealer from entering the wood.
- Low-Quality Pigments: If the sealer uses cheap colorants, the UV protection fades quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where your cedar is located and how you plan to use it.
Decking vs. Siding
Cedar decks take a beating from foot traffic and standing water. Decks need very tough, penetrating sealers, often oil-based, that resist abrasion. Cedar siding or fences face more sun and rain but less rubbing. They can often use easier-to-apply, water-based sealers.
Application Time
If you need to finish a large area quickly, choose a fast-drying product. If you are working on a small project, drying time matters less. Always check the temperature and humidity range listed on the can; applying sealer in the wrong weather ruins the job.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cedar Wood Sealer
Q: How often must I reapply the sealer?
A: Most good quality sealers last between one and three years. Areas that get heavy sun or water, like deck railings, might need touch-ups yearly. Always test the water repellency; if water soaks in instead of beading up, it is time to reseal.
Q: Should I use a cleaner before sealing my cedar?
A: Yes, cleaning is very important. Use a dedicated cedar or wood cleaner to remove dirt, mildew, and gray surface fibers. Rinse thoroughly and let the wood dry completely, usually for two days, before sealing.
Q: Can I use the same sealer on cedar decking and cedar siding?
A: You can, but it is not always ideal. Decks need abrasion resistance, while siding needs excellent UV protection. Check the product label to see if it is recommended for both horizontal and vertical surfaces.
Q: What is the difference between a stain and a sealer?
A: A sealer’s main job is protection (water and UV). A stain’s main job is adding or changing color. Many products today are “sealer-stains,” meaning they do both jobs at once.
Q: Will sealing my cedar stop it from turning gray?
A: A good sealer with strong UV absorbers will slow down the graying process a lot. However, cedar will naturally weather over a long time. Regular maintenance keeps the color best.
Q: How long does it take for the sealer to dry?
A: This changes a lot. Water-based products might be dry to the touch in one to four hours. Oil-based products can take 12 to 24 hours before you can safely walk on them or apply a second coat.
Q: Can I use a regular deck sealer on cedar?
A: Yes, many standard deck sealers work well on cedar. However, ensure the product is designed to penetrate wood deeply. Cedar is softer than pressure-treated pine, so overly harsh chemicals might damage it.
Q: Does the sealer change the natural smell of cedar?
A: Oil-based sealers might slightly enhance the natural wood scent when wet. Most water-based sealers have very little odor once fully cured. The smell of the wood itself usually remains noticeable.
Q: What happens if I apply the sealer when it is too cold?
A: Sealing in cold weather stops the sealer from curing correctly. It might look sticky or peel off later. Always check the forecast; most products require temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
Q: Do I need to sand between coats of sealer?
A: Generally, no. If you are applying two coats of the same type of sealer (like two coats of the same water-based product), sanding is usually not needed. If you switch from an oil-based to a water-based product, light scuff sanding might help adhesion.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.