12 best exterior stains

Product description

Ready Seal stain enhances the natural beauty of the wood allowing the texture and grain of the wood to remain visible. This stain is an oil-based, semi transparent stain and sealer in one, suitable for all your exterior wood projects. It is a unique formula that penetrates deeply to protect and preserve wood from the elements such as mold, mildew and damaging UV rays.

• 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.
• Subject to or will include a PaintCare recycling fee in the following states: CT, or VT. Not available in CA.

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this peel, flake off after 2 - 3 years
Answer:	I don’t know, I just completed my application to my decking and wood fence about 6 months ago and so far they both look great. I don’t think this product will flake or peel off because is a stain but I think is best if you contact the manufacturer and see what they will advise you. So far under the Phoenix Sun I can see a little fading but I will reapply again in about a year or so. Thanks for the question, Jorge
Question:	Can anyone share what their decks looked like one year later using this product
Answer:	I‘ve used this stain for many years on my decks. I’ve restained the horizontal surfaces every other year, the vertical surfaces every 5 years. I just completely stripped old twp stain off of my deck this spring and stained it in May with one coat of Ready Seal. I thought I probably needed two coats since it was the first staining of a clean deck, but waited to see. It faded quite a bit (not surprised) and I added a second coat earlier today. Based on past experience, I expect this to hold its color well for a couple of years, then I’ll hose it off (not powerwash) and add another coat on the horizontal surfaces in 2 years, and I’ll do the same on the vertical surfaces in about 5 years.
Question:	can this be used on wooden playsets/swingsets? Is it non-toxic
Answer:	It's used on decks quite a bit and I'm not aware of anybody ever having an issue. It's on my deck and more than one child has crawled around on that without growing a third eye.
Question:	Can someone who purchased the light oak or golden pine color upload a photo to see how it turned out, please? also, the longevity on a fence? thanks
Answer:	Check out pics on the Ready Seal website. Color varies based on wood type. I’m not sure about longevity on a fence, I’ve only used it in decks. With decks I’ve found that after getting the original staining established (two coats for decks in my experience), it lasts for about two years, then I hose it off (not powerwash) and add another coat to the horizontal surfaces. I do the same on the vertical surfaces about once every 5 years.

Product description

Varathane Premium Gel Stain is your solution for staining vertical surfaces without the mess of drips, runs or other common application issues. With a thicker formula than traditional stains, this gel stain develops rich colors and enhances wood grain for a beautiful patina and outstanding coverage. To protect your projects, topcoat with Varathane Premium Interior or Outdoor Polyurethane after gel stain dries for minimum of 8 hours.

From the Manufacturer

Varathane Premium Gel Stain uses a thicker consistency to prevent dripping, running, lap marking and grain raising. Apply to vertical wood surfaces, including indoor and outdoor furniture, cabinets and doors.

• Designed for vertical surfaces including doors, window trim and furniture; creates a natural wood look on fiberglass and composite doors
• Formulated with a thicker consistency to prevent drips and runs and provides twice the coverage of traditional oil-based stains
• Dries to the touch in 1 hour and covers up to 250 sq ft
• Applies evenly without causing lap marks or grain raise; not recommended for floors, decks or siding
• Enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain with long-lasting, rich deep color

User questions & answers

Question:	can I apply this gel stain over my existing garage door paint
Answer:	I applied it to my front door that had stain not paint. I did a slight sanding first and it ended up great. I’m not sure I would apply it over paint
Question:	Can I use this to stain my fiberglass white garage door
Answer:	Yes you can. I used this, in conjunction with a paint wash on my front door and garage door to imitate wood. You have to use at least two coats of a marine grade polyurethane over it to seal and protect it, then reseal every 3-4 years.
Question:	Is this water based
Answer:	No it's oil based. Clean up with mineral spirits. Put on a pre-stain conditioner if you are staining pine, hemlock or any other soft or "resin-y" wood. Better yet, try Cabot premium wood finish. I have been working with wood for years, tried this and absolutely loved it!! Gorgeous finish, no blotchiness and water based.
Question:	can this be applied on laminated portion of cabinets? If not can the colors be mixed to try and match an existing color
Answer:	This is a stain so it would not do well on laminate. However, color matching at Lowe's or Home Depot should be easy.

Product description

Ready Seal stain enhances the natural beauty of the wood allowing the texture and grain of the wood to remain visible. This stain is an oil-based, semi transparent stain and sealer in one, suitable for all your exterior wood projects. It is a unique formula that penetrates deeply to protect and preserve wood from the elements such as mold, mildew and damaging UV rays.

From the Manufacturer

Ready Seal stain enhances the natural beauty of the wood allowing the texture and grain of the wood to remain visible. This stain is an oil-based, semi transparent stain and sealer in one, suitable for all your exterior wood projects. It is a unique formula that penetrates deeply to protect and preserve wood from the elements such as mold, mildew and damaging UV rays.

• 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.
• Subject to or will include a PaintCare recycling fee in the following states: CT, or VT. Not available in CA.
• Easy maintenance - no sanding or stripping required for re-application

User questions & answers

Question:	What is the warranty on this
Answer:	I don't believe there is any warranty. We applied it two years ago and the covered areas still look good. The section in direct Sun...needs to have it applied again.
Question:	How long can the product be stored once the container is opened
Answer:	We actually used some that we had stored in our garage that was left over from the last time we stained our siding and that was in the summer of 2012, 6 yrs ago. When we removed the lid, it looked like it had become a gel but my husband used a drill with a paint mixer/stirrer tool and it became liquefied again. We applied it to the siding without incident and the color matched the new 5 gallon containers we bought this summer .
Question:	I have 275 ft of fence plus a gate- what's the coverage with using a sprayer
Answer:	I’m in the process of staining my fence (I am using a different brand) with a semi-transparent stain. I have 187’ of fence at 5’ high including 2 gates. Applied with a roller and brush, I’m going to need around 13 gallons. My recommendation is rent a sprayer from Home Depot. You’ll save time and money as you’ll use less product and it will go much much faster.
Question:	we have a heavy dining set and i am worried about scratches after i stain, how does it hold up to heavy chairs moving back and forth
Answer:	I have a deck/patio furniture set, including a cast iron umbrella base. Lots of use over the last year with no evidence of scratches in the deck. The stain penetrates the wood rather than building a barrier so dragging stuff across the boards won't take it off provided the wood is properly prepared.

Product features

Application

1. Use a brush, roller or sprayer to apply Ready Seal.

2. Blend multiple containers together to ensure color consistency.

3. Apply two light coats to wood surface and allow at least 45 minutes between.

4. Allow 48 to 72 hours of drying. Drying time will vary depending on temperature, humidity and surface porosity.

-Ready Seal contains no linseed oil and will not stain hands.

-Ready Seal is biodegradable when in contact with soil and water.

-Meets current VOC level requirements throughout the United States.

• WATER-BASED SEMI-TRANSPARENT WOOD STAIN – This environmentally friendly, water based deck stain allows the wood grain to show through with a beautiful semi-transparent, natural matte finish. It's great for staining wood decks, fences, siding, playsets, outdoor patio furniture, and more.
• FORTIFIED WITH ZINC NANO-PARTICLE TECHNOLOGY– It’s like sunscreen for your wood. Tiny zinc particles dispersed throughout the stain reflect damaging UV rays, preventing premature graying and color loss.
• EXTREMELY DURABLE, QUALITY THAT LASTS – DEFY Extreme wood stains are made with the highest quality resins available that have better resistance to fading and darkening. The result is a quality semi-transparent deck stain that typically lasts a season or two longer than competitive products. Keep your deck, fence or siding looking great for longer by using DEFY premium wood stains.
• EASY TO MAINTAIN – When it’s time to do a maintenance coat, there’s no need to sand or strip the surface again. Simply brighten the wood with DEFY Wood Brightener and apply a single maintenance coat of DEFY Extreme Wood Stain.
• 250 VOC COMPLIANT - Ships to all states except California. California residents can purchase DEFY Extreme 40, which is VOC Compliant in California.

User questions & answers

Question:	will this work in paint gun
Answer:	yes it will, that's how I applied it.
Question:	Will be applying to white cedar fence. How dry does the wood have to be
Answer:	I did not heed the "one year" to dry on the new portion of my deck. Did old and new at the same time when the new portion was perhaps 2 months old. There was a definite difference. I washed and brightened both. Also did two coats. The 2nd coat was done while the first coat was still wet as per instructions. Also brushed vs. rolled. The stain seeped into the older wood much better and the color is richer. Don't believe the stain will last for years. In covered areas yes, it does. But my deck area that gets full S.Carolina sun, does not last the year. I re-stained last year and will be doing a layer of water proofing on horizontal surfaces this year in hopes that I won't have to stain again for a while. I am still happy that I bought the water based just because of the clean up and the ease of re-staining even if I feel I had to do it much quicker than if I had used oil based.
Question:	Can I use this on my new cream colored bamboo blinds? Unsure about the method they were colored, but almost no sheen. Want stain protection in kitchen
Answer:	Hard to say without looking at the wood , but if the wood still looks porous enough we're the Stain can soak in some I would think a light coat possibly 2 would do it. It's very thin milky color but dries clear
Question:	I am applying this to a fence. Would you recommend it for fences? Also, if you have used this product how well is it holding up
Answer:	Using it for 10 years, great on fences. Apply W weed oil sprayer. Brush W 4" throw away brush as needed. Time between coats varies W the look you want. 2-3 years looks great. At 5 years fading is noticeable. Apply when cool. Dampen surfaces to get soak in.

Product features

About SaverSystems

At SaverSystems, we understand the frustration people feel when they see what they've built deteriorate from the elements. Property is one investment you can bank on, but if it's made with concrete, masonry, or wood it needs to be protected. SaverSystems employs state of the art technology to help protect and save what you build.

SaverSystems has manufactured premium quality, water repellents and protective coatings for over 30 years. We make coatings for a variety of surfaces including wood, concrete, masonry. In addition to the DEFY brand, SaverSystems also manufactures ChimneyRx, MasonrySaver, & ChimneySaver branded products.

All of our products are manufactured in our production facilities located in Richmond, Indiana. Every product is produced under strict quality standards and formulated with the highest quality raw materials available. Our innovative solutions and coatings have stood the test of time, and are trusted by industry professionals and homeowners alike.

Product description

Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, Cedar, 12 Ounce

From the Manufacturer

Krylon exterior wood stain is the first and only exterior wood stain in a convenient spray can. As durable as it is beautiful, it goes on smooth to leave a flawless finish that will hold up under the toughest conditions.

• Premium, durable stain
• Water repellent and UV fade protection
• Fast, even coverage
• Model number: K03601000

User questions & answers

Question:	Are you able to still see the wood grain after applying
Answer:	Yes, since it's really a stain. I used on a bare wood chair which had never been painted and I used the cedar color on. I also used it on an old rattan chair in a darker color and it turned out perfectly. You can see the grain on both items.
Question:	Is this the price for one can
Answer:	Yes. Only one can came to me when I ordered.
Question:	Can this be applied over fading exterior latex stain? Thank you
Answer:	I applied it over NEW lattice for a garden trellis- sorry, but I do not know about latex-you might give it a try as long as the old will not peel off. Hope this helps. ^__^
Question:	Dose this need a clear finish on top to pertect the stain
Answer:	I used the stain to stain my mailbox post. Didn't use a clear finish over it. I liked the matte finish look. It held up in the weather just fine.

Product description

General Finishes Exterior 450 Stains are premium quality, exterior pigmented wood stains designed for outdoor projects with vertical surfaces such fences, patio furniture, garage doors, entrance doors, outdoor kitchens and interior windows. These outdoor water-based wood stains not recommended for a deck finish. Exterior 450 Stains contain U.V. absorbers to protect the finish and mildewcides to retard mold.

• General Finishes Exterior 450 Stains are premium quality, exterior pigmented wood stains designed for outdoor projects with vertical surfaces such as garage doors, entrance doors and furniture
• These outdoor water-based wood stains not recommended for large horizontal surfaces such as a deck
• Exterior 450 Stains contain U.V. absorbers to protect the finish and mildewcides to slow mold and mildew growth but will not prevent the wood from changing color from sunlight
• Product can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed; soap and water cleanup

User questions & answers

Question:	Would this product work on wood shutters
Answer:	In my opinion it would work well on shutters. Per the General Finishes website the product is : “. . . designed for outdoor projects with vertical surfaces such as garage doors, entrance doors and furniture.” So I would think a vertical surface such as shutters would be as formulated.
Question:	Can I use this on a painted wood garage door, or should I use the oil-based stuff? Then which topcoat would go over it
Answer:	You could use this Stain however oil base it's probably best for exterior and then I would go with a spar urethane or a spar varnish Marine varnish for the outside for the clear coat gloss is up to you myself I like satin

Product description

Ready SEal for Wood is an oil-based, semitransparent stain and sealer in one. It is a unique blend of oil, quality resins and finely ground pigments that penetrate deeply to protect and preserve the wood from the elements. Ready Seal Stain and Sealer for Wood is the best stain for protecting all your outdoor wood projects. Ready Seal wood stains are PROFESSIONAL GRADE wood stains, designed for professional results every time! Wood staining has never been easier for both the professional and the do-it-yourselfer. By circumventing the problems often encountered by conventional wood stains and deck paint products, Ready Seal wood stains are able to offer fast, easy application without sacrificing durability or cosmetic appeal, making us the best stain on the market! There are many more reasons why Ready Seal is the best wood stain and sealer product on the market. Discover Ready Seal’s quality and simplicity - use the wood stain and sealant product on your next project! If you’d like to find out more about the Ready Seal advantage, contact our team and we’ll provide even more convincing details that prove Ready Seal has the best wood stain and sealer! Ready Seal is VOC Compliant and contains less than 250 Grams/Liter of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC). - Dispose of According to Local, State and Federal Laws. Clear finishes contain no UV protection; they allow damaging UV rays to pass through to the wood unchecked, degrading the wood’s surface. The wood soon sloughs off that damaged top layer of cells, taking the finish with it. All Ready Seal colors contain trans-oxide pigments. Transoxide pigments have exceptional UV radiation absorption, providing exceptional protection to wood surfaces. Ready Seal does not contain any chemical designed to kill or repel any form of insects Biodegradable

• Wood Stain and Wood Sealer in one
• No peeling, cracking, or chipping.
• Goof Proof application process
• Ready Seal is designed for exterior use only
• Approximately 125-150 sq. feet per gallon

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this come in a half gallon? I need som for my cedar mail box post
Answer:	No it does not. Norkan, Inc.

Product description

Cabot Semi-Transparent Stains are deep penetrating, linseed oil-based stains that beautify and protect exterior wood. These lightly pigmented stains enhance the natural beauty of the wood by allowing the grain, texture, and color variations within the wood to show through. Acrylic 1300 series combines penetrating properties of oil-based with easy soap-and-water clean-up of water-based finishes. Will provide long-lasting, vapor-permeable protection that beautifies and enriches exterior wood surfaces. Formulated with non-fade, earth tone pigments to weather slowly over time.

• Uniquely formulated for superior durability
• Deep penetrating semi-solid finish for superior UV protection
• Scuff and fade resistant
• One coat application
• Ideal for use on decks, siding, and fencing

User questions & answers

Question:	what is the drying time
Answer:	90% hardened within 12 hours. 100% within 2 weeks.
Question:	How much is a 5 gallon of the Cabot semi-solid decking stain
Answer:	$205 at Lowe's. We bought some stain from Lowe's and some from Amazon.
Question:	Do you know the sq ft 1 gallon will cover
Answer:	Not sure

Product description

Thompson's Waterseal Waterproffing Stain - Semi Transparent, Acorn Brown. Exterior wood stain and sealer that provides complete outdoor wood protection. Formula is moderately pigmented to add beautiful color, but still show some wood texture and grain.Prevents Water Damage Advanced Polymers Provide Fade Resistant Color Coating Resists Mildew and UV Damage Applies to Freshly Cleaned Damp or Dry Wood.

• Exterior wood stain and sealer that provides complete outdoor wood protection
• Formula is moderately pigmented to add beautiful color, but still show some wood texture and grain.
• Prevents Water Damage; Coating Resists Mildew and UV Damage
• Advanced Polymers Provide Fade Resistant Color
• Applies to Freshly Cleaned Damp or Dry Wood; Color: Acorn Brown
• Exceeds Industry Standard ASTM D-4446 for Waterproofing Wood
• 1 coat protects 4 years on deck & 6 years on fences and sidings

User questions & answers

Question:	Can you use a pump sprayer for application
Answer:	I've never applied it that way. Brushing or using a pad is how I've applied it and this color turns out beautiful.
Question:	Would this work to finish a picnic table
Answer:	It will work fine as long as the lumber is dry and treated lumber is sometimes not very dry. I would put 3-4 coats on it because it soaks in quickly. If it sits in the sun, it will require re painting each year most likely.
Question:	How much coverage per gallon
Answer:	If the wood is dry particularly if it is in the sun a lot then it takes much more waterseal. I painted a fence and a deck and it took 26 gallons. I would guess the fence is 400 feet total and the deck is 24 x 24 feet. The deck had already received 8 coats of waterseal over an 8 year period and it is covered. It took much more than I expected. In fact, I had guessed it would take about 15 gallons. I must say, however, I was very pleased with the outcome both in color and durability. I will use it again.
Question:	How u apply on deck post ? Shake well before using ? How many coat needs ? I used one coat , but seems watery, next day check found not wa proof
Answer:	I had mine brushed on..A lot depends on how dried out/cracked open the wood is, as to how far in it will soak. It is watery/thin that does help for it to soak in more. It may require more than one coat.

Product features

The Thompson's Company has earned a well-deserved reputation as identifying industry trends and emerging technologies.

In the early 1920’s, polymer chemist Edward Addis Thompson developed a formula that protected buildings from exterior water damage. His discovery became known as Thompson's WaterSeal Clear Multi-Surface Waterproofer and initially was used by architectural and construction firms for concrete applications.

Product description

General Finishes Exterior 450 Stains are premium quality, exterior pigmented wood stains designed for outdoor projects with vertical surfaces such fences, patio furniture, garage doors, entrance doors, outdoor kitchens and interior windows. These outdoor water-based wood stains not recommended for a deck finish. Exterior 450 Stains contain U.V. absorbers to protect the finish and mildewcides to retard mold.

• General Finishes Exterior 450 Stains are premium quality, exterior pigmented wood stains designed for outdoor projects with vertical surfaces such as garage doors, entrance doors and furniture
• These outdoor water-based wood stains not recommended for large horizontal surfaces such as a deck
• Exterior 450 Stains contain U.V. absorbers to protect the finish and mildewcides to slow mold and mildew growth but will not prevent the wood from changing color from sunlight
• Product can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed; soap and water cleanup

User questions & answers

Question:	Would this work well for cedar outdoor table? The cedar has been burned shou Sugi ban style
Answer:	Normally if the wood hadn’t been burnt I would say yes. However with the charring I don’t know if it would penetrate.

Product description

Cabot Gold is the ultimate finish, providing a beautiful sheen and strong protection from Mother Nature's worst: UV sun damage, extreme temperatures, rain and moisture. The first coat penetrates, the second coat adds dimension as it seals. The finish mimics the look of interior hardwood floors. Amount of sheen will vary based on number and thickness of each coat. Sheen will weather gradually over time.

• Cabot Gold is the ultimate finish, providing the look of interior hardwood floors and strong protection from Mother Nature's worst
• Moonlit Mahogany satin finish is ideal for use on exterior wood decks, siding, fences and outdoor furniture
• Durable formula provides protection from UV sun damage, extreme temperatures, rain and moisture
• Superior mildew blocker
• First coat penetrates, second coat adds dimension as it seals
• Resists cracking, peeling, scuffing and scratching
• Wears gracefully over the years

Product description

General Finishes Exterior 450 Stains are premium quality, exterior pigmented wood stains designed for outdoor projects with vertical surfaces such fences, patio furniture, garage doors, entrance doors, outdoor kitchens and interior windows. These outdoor water-based wood stains not recommended for a deck finish. Exterior 450 Stains contain U.V. absorbers to protect the finish and mildewcides to retard mold.

• General Finishes Exterior 450 Stains are premium quality, exterior pigmented wood stains designed for outdoor projects with vertical surfaces such as garage doors, entrance doors and furniture
• These outdoor water-based wood stains not recommended for large horizontal surfaces such as a deck
• Exterior 450 Stains contain U.V. absorbers to protect the finish and mildewcides to slow mold and mildew growth but will not prevent the wood from changing color from sunlight
• Product can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed; soap and water cleanup

User questions & answers

Question:	can I mix 450 stain with 450 topcoat
Answer:	I personally would never mix 450 stain with 450 topcoat as I don’t believe the resulting finish would be as great as using the products individually. However the manufacturer states that you could use 450 topcoat as a toner by mixing it with 5-10 percent 450 stain by volume. Please see the manufacturer’s website for details.