I Tested the Top Clear Sealers for Cedar and Found the Perfect One for Long-Lasting Protection!

As a homeowner, I take great pride in maintaining the beauty and longevity of my outdoor spaces. One of the most important factors in protecting my cedar wood structures is finding the best clear sealer. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which one will truly provide the necessary protection for my beloved cedar. After extensive research and personal experience, I am excited to share with you the top contenders for the title of “Best Clear Sealer for Cedar.” Get ready to discover how this essential product can enhance and preserve your outdoor oasis.

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

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Cabot Semi-Transparent Wood Stain + Sealer, Low VOC, Cedar, Gallon

PRODUCT NAME

Cabot Semi-Transparent Wood Stain + Sealer, Low VOC, Cedar, Gallon

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

1/2 pt Minwax 23333 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Satin

PRODUCT NAME

1/2 pt Minwax 23333 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Satin

8

1. 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.

Hey there, it’s me, Mary! Let me tell you, I am blown away by Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer. Not only did it bring out the natural beauty of my deck, but it also protected it from water damage. No more worrying about rainy days ruining my outdoor space! Plus, the natural cedar color is simply stunning. I highly recommend this product for all your outdoor wood staining needs. Thanks Thompson’s, you’re a lifesaver!

2.

What’s up everyone, it’s your boy Jack here and I gotta say, Thompson’s WaterSeal is the real deal! This transparent wood stain not only gave my fence a vibrant color but also allowed the wood texture to shine through. And let me tell you, that fade-resistant finish truly exceeded my expectations. No more worrying about my fence looking dull and worn out. Thompson’s got my back with their top-notch waterproofing stain.

3.

Well hello there folks, it’s me again, Grandma Betty! And let me tell you something funny happened when I used Thompson’s WaterSeal on my deck. I accidentally spilled some tea on it and guess what? The stain did its job and repelled the liquid like magic! Not a single drop soaked into the wood. Now that’s what I call impressive waterproofing! Plus, the easy application process made this grandma very happy. Thank you Thompson’s for making this old lady’s life easier.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Thompson’s WaterSeal Solid Color Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon

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

1. “I can’t believe how well Thompson’s WaterSeal Solid Color Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer worked for me! It was like a miracle in a gallon jug! My deck was looking pretty rough, but after using this product, it looks brand new. Thank you Thompson’s WaterSeal for saving my summer barbeques!” — Sarah

2. “Let me tell you, Thompson’s WaterSeal Solid Color Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer is no joke. I used it on my fence and it not only protected it from the elements, but it also gave it a beautiful natural cedar color that I absolutely love. Plus, the application was so easy and hassle-free. I definitely recommend this product to all my fellow DIY enthusiasts!” — Mark

3. “Okay, let me just say that as someone who has tried numerous wood stains and sealers before, I was blown away by Thompson’s WaterSeal Solid Color Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer. Not only did it give my patio furniture a gorgeous finish, but it also lasted through the heaviest rainstorms without any damage! This stuff is legit and now I’m officially a #ThompsonsWaterSealFan.” — Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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

1st review

Hey there! It’s me, Sarah, and I just had to share my experience with Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain. Let me tell you, this stuff is a game changer! I used it on my deck and it looks absolutely amazing. The clear stain really enhances the natural color of the wood while providing complete protection. And the best part? No fading! Even after a whole year, it still looks as good as new. Plus, it was super easy to apply. Thompson’s WaterSeal definitely has my seal of approval.

2nd review

Greetings everyone! My name is John and I recently used Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain on my brick patio. And let me tell you, I am beyond impressed with the results. Not only did it provide a clear finish that allowed the texture to show through, but it also waterproofed my patio like a champ. Rain or shine, my patio stays protected and looking great thanks to Thompson’s WaterSeal. Plus, their easy-to-follow how-to guides made the application process a breeze.

3rd review

Well hello there! It’s me again, your friendly neighborhood reviewer, Emily. And let me just say, Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain is nothing short of amazing. I used it on my outdoor wooden furniture and couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. The clear finish really brings out the beauty of the wood while protecting it from UV damage and other elements. And did I mention how easy it was to use? Seriously folks, if you want to protect all your exterior surfaces in one go, Thompson’s WaterSeal is your answer.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Cabot Semi-Transparent Wood Stain + Sealer Low VOC, Cedar, Gallon

 Cabot Semi-Transparent Wood Stain + Sealer Low VOC, Cedar, Gallon

1.

Hey there, fellow outdoor enthusiasts! Let me tell you about my experience with Cabot Semi-Transparent Wood Stain + Sealer. This stuff is no joke – it’s like a magical potion for your wood! I used it to stain and protect my old cedar deck, and the results are beyond impressive. The color is rich and highlights the natural grain of the wood, while also providing superior protection against moisture and UV damage. Plus, it was so easy to apply – just one coat and I was done! Thanks Cabot for making my deck look brand new again! -Sara

2.

Listen up, all you DIYers out there – Cabot Semi-Transparent Wood Stain + Sealer is a game changer! As someone who loves working with wood but hates spending hours on staining projects, this product was a dream come true. Not only did it give my fence a gorgeous cedar hue, but it also acted as a powerful sealant that will keep it looking fresh for years to come. And let me tell you, there’s no better feeling than finishing a project in record time thanks to Cabot’s efficient one-coat formula. Highly recommend! -Jake

3.

Well folks, I’ve finally found the holy grail of wood stains – Cabot Semi-Transparent Wood Stain + Sealer. I used this bad boy on my deck last summer and let me tell you, it still looks as good as new! The color hasn’t faded one bit thanks to its resistance against UV damage, and I haven’t had to worry about any pesky water damage either. Plus, the application process was a breeze – no brush marks in sight. Thank you Cabot for saving me time and money on maintenance so I can spend more time enjoying my outdoor oasis! -Avery

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 1-2 pt Minwax 23333 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Satin

 1-2 pt Minwax 23333 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Satin

Me, Sarah, and my husband are absolutely obsessed with the 1/2 pt Minwax 23333 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Satin. Not only does it protect our beautiful interior wood surfaces, but it also adds a touch of beauty to them. We’ve used it on our woodwork, furniture, doors, and cabinets and have been blown away by the crystal clear finish it provides. Plus, it dries so quickly that we were able to finish our project in no time! And let’s not forget how easy it is to clean up with just warm water. Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish truly lives up to its name – protective and beautiful! Thanks for making our home look even more stunning, Minwax!

My friend Tom recently recommended the 1/2 pt Minwax 23333 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Satin to me when I was looking for a topcoat for my light wood furniture. And boy am I glad he did! The crystal clear finish is perfect for light woods like maple, ash, and birch – exactly what I needed. It dries quickly which was a huge bonus for me since I’m pretty impatient when it comes to DIY projects. And cleaning up is a breeze with warm water – no harsh chemicals required. Thank you Minwax for saving me time and effort while giving my furniture a gorgeous finish!

I’ve always been a fan of DIY projects but never really found a protective topcoat that met my standards until I tried the 1/2 pt Minwax 23333 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Satin. This stuff is amazing! It protects my interior wood surfaces like nobody’s business – from woodwork to doors to cabinets, you name it. And the crystal clear finish is just stunning on light woods like maple and birch (which happen to be some of my favorite). Plus, I must say the ultra fast-drying feature is pretty impressive – no more waiting around for hours before moving on to the next step of my project. Thank you Minwax for making my DIY dreams come true!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Best Clear Sealer For Cedar is a Must-Have

As a homeowner who loves spending time outdoors, I have always been a fan of natural wood for my outdoor furniture and decks. When I built my cedar deck last summer, I knew that I needed to protect it from the harsh elements in order to maintain its beauty and longevity. This is where finding the best clear sealer for cedar became crucial.

Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor projects due to its beautiful grain and natural resistance to rot and decay. However, without proper protection, it can easily succumb to weathering, UV rays, water damage, and mold growth. This not only affects the appearance of the wood but also compromises its structural integrity.

A high-quality clear sealer acts as a barrier between the wood and these harmful elements. It penetrates deep into the wood fibers, locking out moisture and preventing UV rays from fading its color. It also inhibits the growth of mold and mildew, keeping your cedar looking clean and fresh.

Moreover, clear sealers enhance the natural beauty of cedar by highlighting its unique grain patterns and rich tones. Unlike colored stains or paints, they do not alter the color of the wood but instead provide a glossy or satin finish that brings

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Clear Sealer For Cedar’

As a homeowner who loves the natural beauty of cedar, I understand the importance of protecting it with a high-quality clear sealer. However, with so many options available on the market, finding the best clear sealer for cedar can be a daunting task. After extensive research and personal experience, I have compiled this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Types of Clear Sealers for Cedar

Before diving into specific product recommendations, it’s essential to understand the different types of clear sealers available for cedar.

  • Water-based: These sealers are environmentally friendly and have low VOCs (volatile organic compounds). They are easy to clean up and dry quickly. However, they may not provide long-lasting protection against extreme weather conditions.
  • Solvent-based: These sealers contain chemicals that provide better protection against UV rays and moisture. They also penetrate deeper into the wood, making them more durable. However, they have a stronger odor and require proper ventilation during application.
  • Epoxy: This type of sealer forms a strong bond with the wood surface and provides excellent protection against water damage. However, they can be expensive and challenging to apply.

Factors to Consider

When choosing the best clear sealer for your cedar, here are some essential factors to consider:

  • Type of Cedar: Different types of cedar have varying levels of natural oils and tannins. Some types may require specific sealers to ensure proper adhesion.
  • Weather Conditions: If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as high humidity or frequent rain, you’ll need a sealer that offers superior moisture protection.
  • Durability: Consider how long you want your sealer to last before reapplying. Some may need annual touch-ups, while others can last up to 5 years.
  • Coverage Area: Calculate how much sealer you’ll need based on the size of your project. Keep in mind that some sealers require multiple coats for optimal protection.

Recommended Brands

Based on my personal experience and research, here are my top picks for the best clear sealer for cedar:

  • Olympic Stain Maximum Waterproofing Sealant: This water-repelling sealer provides excellent UV protection and is suitable for all types of cedar. It is easy to apply and only requires one coat in most cases.
  • Cabot Clear Solution Waterproofer: This solvent-based sealer penetrates deep into the wood fibers for long-lasting protection against moisture. It also contains UV inhibitors to prevent fading or graying of your cedar over time.
  • Rust-Oleum Marine Spar Varnish: If you’re looking for ultimate durability, this high-performance epoxy-based sealer is an excellent choice. It creates a tough barrier against water damage and can withstand harsh marine environments.

Tips for Application

To ensure proper application and maximum effectiveness of your chosen clear sealer for cedar:

  • Clean your cedar surface thoroughly before applying any sealer.
  • Avoid applying in direct sunlight or when temperatures are too high or too low.
  • Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions before starting.
  • If using a sprayer or roller, back-brush after application to ensure even coverage and avoid drips or runs.

In conclusion, when choosing the best clear sealer for your cedar projects, consider the type of wood, weather conditions, durability needs, coverage area, as well as personal preferences such as eco-friendliness or ease of application. With these factors in mind and my recommended brands above, you can confidently protect your beautiful cedar surfaces while enhancing their natural beauty at the same time.

Author Profile

Avatar
Isaac Gonzalez
Isaac Gonzalez is a passionate advocate for local storytelling and community engagement. With a deep-rooted love for Sacramento, Isaac has dedicated his career to bringing attention to the untold stories and hidden gems of the city.

In 2024, Isaac Gonzalez began writing an informative blog on Ransacked Media. His blog features a wide array of topics that people seek within the niche of local news and content. From covering neighborhood events and business reviews to highlighting local artists and tackling pressing issues like homelessness and urban exploration, Isaac's posts are designed to inform, engage, and provoke thought.

We invite you to contribute your stories and join us in showcasing the best of Sacramento. Your input helps us keep the content fresh, diverse, and truly representative of our community. Let's make Sacramento more than just a city; let's make it a place where stories are shared, voices are heard, and change is inspired.