I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Preservative For Rough Sawn Wood (2023)

I recently used this wood treatment for an exterior painting project, and I must say that I am extremely satisfied with the results. As someone who has followed the advice of professional painters in the past, I can confidently say that this product is a game-changer.

One of the main concerns when painting wood siding, trim, or any exterior wood surface is ensuring that the paint job lasts for years without any signs of deterioration. This wood treatment addresses this issue effectively. It acts as a barrier, preventing water from seeping into the wood fibers and causing rot. This, in turn, protects the paint and prevents flaking and peeling.

I applied two coats of this treatment, allowing ample drying time between each coat. Following the treatment, I used an oil-based primer and a latex topcoat. The combination of these products has resulted in a paint job that has stood the test of time. Even after 10 years, the house I painted still looks remarkably good, with only a slight fading of the paint.

One of the standout features of this wood treatment is its paintability. Unlike other treatments I have tried in the past, this one allows for easy application of paint. This eliminates the need for second-guessing and ensures a smooth and seamless finish.

While this product is primarily designed to prevent water absorption and wood rot, it also acts as an anti-fungal treatment. It inhibits the growth of fungus, which is a common cause of wood deterioration. This is particularly important in areas where moisture can seep in, such as around paint or slant.

In terms of application, this treatment is easy to use. It has a consistency similar to watered-down milk, allowing for effortless application with a brush, sponge, or by dipping. I have used it on various exterior wood surfaces, including decking and Adirondack chairs, and have been impressed with the results each time.

The brush I purchased was a great alternative to using a roller for emulsion paint. Although it took a bit longer to complete the job, the finish was much better. The quality of the brush was good and the price was reasonable, which is why I decided to purchase a couple more.

I used this brush to stain my mom's garden shed, and it made the job much easier. The fact that it was specifically marketed for exterior use ensured that the bristles didn't fall out during application. This is a common issue when using a standard indoor paint brush. The brush was also easy to clean, and I recommend keeping the plastic brush cover that comes with the original packaging to keep it clean for future use. Overall, it was a great value for money and highly recommended.

The size and softness of the bristles were perfect for applying waterproofing and stain to a medium-sized deck. The job was completed quickly and efficiently.

While painting half of my fence, I did encounter a problem where the metal component of the brush loosened from the handle. However, the bristles remained in good condition throughout the task. I was able to fix the issue by drilling through the steel and screwing it back together. Considering the price of the brush, this was a minor inconvenience, and I still highly recommend it.

I used these brushes for painting a shed, and they worked well overall. However, they did not get into the tight corners and overlaps very easily, so I had to use an artist paint brush for those areas. Additionally, I did experience some hair loss from the brush, which was frustrating. However, considering the brushes were less than £5 each, I wasn't expecting them to be perfect. They didn't clean well, so I just wrapped them in clingfilm until the job was finished and then disposed of them. It's a bit disappointing that they are only suitable for one job, but they did make the job easier, especially for outdoor use where hair loss wasn't as big of an issue.

I recently had to remodel my bathroom due to a water leak, and while tearing down the walls, I discovered that the original studs had been coated with a copper green product. Wanting to rebuild the room exactly as it was originally, I decided to use Woodlife Copper Green to coat the new studs.

The product itself is quite thin and has a blackish-blue tint. It is best applied with a two-inch brush, although it may take some practice to get the right amount without wasting the product. Once applied, it quickly soaks into the wood and dries within a few hours. However, it takes several days to fully cure. During the curing process, the product turns green and emits strong fumes similar to those in an auto repair shop. It is advisable to have a fan and open windows during this time.

In terms of efficacy, I cannot speak for the long-term protection provided by this product. Upon inspecting the original studs that were also coated with a copper product, I found that they had some rot, albeit not as severe as the untreated floor. In my opinion, if your floor has rotted, it is best to replace the walls as well. Additionally, even if the studs have not rotted, they may have become brittle over time and could potentially split when rehanging wall boards. It is recommended to replace any wood that has been affected by water.

In terms of coverage, a small container of Copper Green can coat around 16 studs. I also used Woodlife CopperCoat on the cut ends of my pressure-treated wood when building a deck. One quart was barely enough for my 475 sq ft deck. The product is thin like water and can be easily applied with inexpensive brushes. I made sure to cover the can when not in use to prevent it from drying out.

I recently had the opportunity to use this log oil product, and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. My logs had been weathered for over a decade, and they had absorbed a significant amount of material. However, after using this log oil, the transformation was remarkable. Even the logs that had less exposure to the elements showed improvement.

The instructions recommended using a Hudson sprayer, and I followed this advice rather than wasting time with a brush. Applying the oil to the point of refusal, as instructed, was not feasible on a large scale with a brush. Initially, I was concerned about the odor, but it dissipated after a few days. I would advise using latex gloves and a Tyvek suit while working with this product, as it has a strong insecticide-like smell and tends to soak into everything it comes in contact with.

As someone who had never used this type of stain before, I was worried about potential mess and complications. However, I found the application process to be surprisingly easy. I live in a cabin from the 1950s with older cement-like chinking, and the oil soaked into the bare wood immediately after the latex paint was blasted off. I may need to reapply before winter to ensure sufficient saturation, but overall, I am pleased with the color and the fact that it stained the cement chinking as well.

Applying the log oil was as simple as purchasing a cheap garden sprayer, although it rendered the sprayer unusable afterward. Therefore, I recommend opting for an inexpensive sprayer rather than an expensive one. For safety purposes, I used a filtered 3M mask, and I suggest others do the same. Reapplication should be hassle-free, as there is no need to strip or sand the surface—simply spray more oil when necessary.

I have attached some photos to showcase the before and after results. Prior to washing the logs, they were in a poor state. However, after washing and applying the log oil, the transformation was incredible. Although 5 gallons of oil was not sufficient to cover all the logs, I will be ordering another 5 gallons because I believe this product is truly exceptional. It completely changed the appearance of my house, and the cleanup process was easy with just soap and water.

I have been using this wood preservative on various types of wood and I must say that I am highly impressed. I initially used it on regular douglas fir for our raised beds and after two years, the wood still looks good. The product is a bit pricey but considering that it can preserve approximately 1000 board feet of wood surface, it is definitely worth the investment.

One of the things I love about this product is how easy it is to use. I didn't have to worry about it being toxic, which gave me peace of mind. I applied it on cedar fence boards, pressure-treated posts, and even our back door. To my surprise, the fence boards and the door turned out to be a beautiful deep brown tone, without any gray tones. Although I was hoping for the gray tones, I still find the color to be stunning. I am curious to see how well it holds up over time. It's worth mentioning that I also applied it on a weather-aged picnic table, and it managed to maintain its gray color.

When it came to my backyard pavilion, I decided to embrace the natural weathered look of the wood. This product helped achieve that driftwood-like appearance, which I absolutely love. It protects the wood and is perfect if you appreciate the weathered silvery and brown look that wood develops with exposure to the elements. On vertical and low-traffic horizontal surfaces, you only need to apply it once and you're done. It lasts forever. In high-traffic areas, you may need to reapply it years later if there is significant wear. However, I believe that would be many years from now. I personally used the non-tinted variant, so I cannot review the tinted product.

I was so satisfied with the results that I ordered more of this product. It does require some calculating to ensure you get the right amount so you don't have any leftovers or run out. However, it is definitely worth the cost. I used it on a wood bench in my garden and a large overhang near a pool, both of which turned from new/yellow to aged/grey and look amazing.

Lastly, I have been using this wood preservative for five years now on pine wood for my raised garden boxes. I can confidently say that it is great. The wood that I have treated with this product, which is nearing its fifth year, shows no signs of rot or decay. I even cut a piece to examine the inside, and to my surprise, it still had great color and was sturdy.

The only suggestion I have is for the manufacturer to consider packaging the product in individual 1-gallon mix packets instead of having it all mixed together. This would make it easier to use the product without any waste.

I recently used bloodwood as scales for my hammers, and I must say that the results were impressive. The wood, known for its durability and aesthetic appeal, proved to be a suitable choice for tool handles. Initially, I faced issues with cracking when overlaying the scales on other materials such as metal or steel. However, I found a solution by soaking a pre-drilled 1.1"x1.1"x4" block in a specific juice and allowing it to dry for about 36-48 hours. Since then, I have not encountered any cracking issues, and the wood has remained intact.

Apart from making hammers, I also used this product to preserve some wood coasters, and it worked exceptionally well. The bloodwood did not split or dry out, suggesting that it effectively protects and maintains the quality of the wood.

Using the product was a breeze. It was easy to apply, and there was no strong odor associated with it. However, I did face a minor inconvenience during shipping. The product arrived in a plastic bag, which unfortunately leaked, causing a messy situation. Thankfully, the leakage was contained within the bag, but it was still a hassle to clean up. Despite this, the product itself was unaffected by the leakage.

I recently purchased Copper Naphthenate for a construction project in my area where it is required by code. It was difficult to find locally, but luckily I found it on Amazon. The application was easy and it quickly turned the wood green, indicating that it had been applied. The strong odor, although overwhelming at first, is temporary and diminishes as it sets into the wood. After a week, the smell had completely disappeared. I'm grateful that I was able to find this product online, as it was unavailable in my area.

I have been building ramps for my shed every few years, but decided to make one that would last. The ramp has been extremely helpful in storing my lawnmower without any struggle. I used two sheets of heavy plywood separated by rows of 2" x 2" risers, and secured them together with deck construction screws after applying multiple coats of Copper Naphthenate. I also added a foundation of marble chips at the bottom of the ramp to keep it dry. It took about two weeks for the boards to dry enough for final assembly, but the ramp has been holding up well and appears to be built to last longer than my shed.

When working with pressure-treated lumber, it's important to understand the treatment process and how to properly use the chemicals involved. I downloaded the full literature packet from the manufacturer's website and read it thoroughly before using Copper Naphthenate. It required careful application, especially since my project involved drilling and cutting the wood. I used a cake pan to brush the cuts and a plastic pipette to flood the drilled holes with the chemical. The smell of the preservative was strong during this process, but it was worth it to protect the wood from rot. Once the stain and topcoat were applied, the smell disappeared.

The eco wood preservative is a fantastic product that is easy to use and provides great results. The natural grey-ish color of the product looks great on wood and changes over time as it sits out in the sun and weather.

One of the standout features of this preservative is its ease of application. It is quick and simple to apply, making it a time-saving solution. The reviewer used it to preserve their bee's hive boxes and was pleased with the outcome. They mentioned that there was no residual odor or chemical base, which is a great advantage.

Another reviewer shared their experience using the eco wood preservative on cheap fir boards for raised beds. They were initially skeptical about the durability of the boards, but after five years, the wood is still solid with no signs of whitening from fungus. This speaks volumes about the effectiveness of the product as a preservative.

While it is too early to accurately rate the durability of the eco wood preservative, the ease of application was highly praised. The reviewer mentioned that it was easy to apply and if it does work, it offers great value in terms of time saved and cost of paint. They used it on honeybee hive boxes and were optimistic about its long-term effectiveness.

The eco wood preservative also mixes easily with water. One reviewer tried using distilled water as directed and then switched to their own well water without noticing any difference. This versatility in water options makes it convenient for users with different water sources.

I recently used Coppercoat to protect the wood in my backyard, and I have to say, I am quite impressed with the results. While the initial smell did linger for a couple of weeks, it eventually dissipated, which is a small price to pay for the effectiveness of this product.

One of the reasons I decided to try Coppercoat is because my dad, who has been in the marine industry for 40 years, highly recommended it. He believes it is the best product out there, which is why it is not readily available at HomeDepot and Lowes. I used Coppercoat for the supports and framework under my deck, and it has proven to be a wise choice.

I also had an incident where I realized the grade beams in my newly built barn were not pressure treated. Instead of removing them, I ordered two gallons of Coppercoat. After doing some research, I learned that many lumber manufacturers are now treating wood with solutions like Coppercoat, as opposed to traditional pressure treatment methods. I made sure to apply the product behind the boards by knocking them out slightly, and I soaked the grade beams with six wet coats using a garden sprayer. The end result is remarkable – the grade beams now look identical to the pressure treated posts, both in color and smell.

I was pleasantly surprised by how far a gallon of Coppercoat went. In fact, I had enough left over to coat the pressure treated posts as well. After all, you can never have too much protection. I even poured some at the base of the posts where they are concreted in. I now feel confident that my wood is better protected than what I would have received from the lumber yard.

At the end of the day, Coppercoat utilizes two chemicals to protect wood: copper to prevent rot and arsenic to guard against insect damage. I believe that, when applied in several heavy coats, Coppercoat is more than capable of meeting my treated wood needs.

While I am giving Coppercoat a five-star rating based on my hopes for its effectiveness, only time will truly tell. I will continue to monitor the wood and evaluate its performance. I must mention that the product did have an initial odor, but it wasn't as bad as some reviewers made it out to be. In fact, I have encountered household cleaning products with worse smells. Of course, I took necessary precautions by wearing a respirator, eye protection, and gloves. However, after about an hour of application, the odor tapered off significantly.

In terms of appearance, Coppercoat has a transparent greenish color. It does appear that you could stain over it with a medium to darker colored stain. I applied three coats, and with each coat, the green color became darker.

I recently had the opportunity to use this deck stain and I must say, I was impressed. With just one day of application, I was able to clean and stain my deck, and the very next day, I could put all my furniture back in place. The application process was incredibly easy and the clean-up was a breeze. Not to mention, the color of the stain is very close to the sample, so my deck looks great!

Although I haven't used this particular purchase yet, I have been using Defy for years and I have always been satisfied with the results. One of the things I appreciate about this product is that it is water-based, yet it still provides excellent coverage and lasts for several years. It is also very easy to apply, which is definitely a plus.

Another great aspect of this deck stain is that two coats are all you need. Additionally, it forms water beads over a year's time, which is a testament to its durability. I highly recommend this product for anyone looking to protect and enhance the appearance of their deck.

The only downside I encountered was the price. Thankfully, I was able to complete my deck with just one bottle of this stain. However, when I went back to reorder, I noticed that the price had more than doubled. This may be something to keep in mind if you have a larger project.

On a positive note, the color of this stain is fantastic and it is very easy to apply with a brush. I recently used it on my swing set and it made it look brand new again. Additionally, it sealed the wood effectively, preventing it from becoming a local wasp hangout. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with this deck stain and I'm glad I gave it a try.