I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Wood Sealer For Uv Protection (2023)

I recently purchased the Thompson Water Seal and I must say, it is an awesome product. As a first time user, I found it incredibly easy to apply and a little goes a long way. One coat was all it took to achieve the desired results. The best part is, it comes at a great price, making it even more appealing.

I primarily used this product as a sealer for my wood deck. I used brushes for the railings and a long-pole applicator pad for the deck floor and stairs. The consistency of the product was perfect for these application methods, but it could also be used with a sprayer. For complete coverage, I recommend using a combination of strategies. I used 2 gallons to cover 2 medium landings, railings, and a set of stairs. If you have a larger project, I would suggest getting at least 2-3 gallons. However, even with one coat, the coverage was fairly good. After a rain, it was satisfying to see the water bead up, knowing that the wood was protected.

One thing worth mentioning is that this product can be used on various surfaces and dries clear. This makes it highly versatile and I definitely plan on using it again in the future.

I have been using Thompson water seal for as long as I can remember, and while this particular product is the lowest grade, I have a suggestion. The best Thompson water seal is the 6-year deck and 15-year fence post. I used this on a kids swing set at church a year ago and it still looks as good as the day I applied it. The thicker coat and darker colors in the 6/15-year sealant make it stand out.

I also used this product to stain some shutters for our rental property and the results were outstanding. I wanted the shutters to look natural and they turned out beautiful. The application was a breeze and a little product went a long way. Overall, a great product.

Being a non-professional, I decided to use a sprayer to apply the water seal. The process was easy and straightforward. I made sure to shake the can well before pouring it into the sprayer container. For my deck and staircase, I used about three containers of the product. I am yet to see how it holds up in the rain, but based on my experience so far, I'm confident it will perform well.

I recently used this varnish as a protective coat for wallpaper in my small bathroom, as well as to protect the paint on a windowsill. I found it to be highly effective and easy to apply using a paint pad. It provided excellent protection against chipping and marking, which was important for me as I have a tendency to spill things. The varnish did slightly darken the paint, but not significantly more than a wax would. It dried quickly and left a clear finish, giving a spill-proof and attractive look. I used a regular paint brush and added a little water to the first coat, which helped with application. A little goes a long way with this varnish, and I am very satisfied with the results.

I also used this varnish on some painted furniture, and it gave them a beautiful finish. While it is not exactly the same as wax, it comes very close. I painted my son's bedroom furniture with chalk paint and wanted a soft, smooth feel and look, but also needed some extra protection against spills and wear. This varnish was much easier to apply than wax and left a slight sheen that was not too shiny. The pieces turned out great, and a little of this varnish went a long way. It gave the furniture a nice protective coating without cheapening the appearance.

After doing some research, I decided to try this varnish and I am glad I did. It is a very nice product that I would purchase again. I used it on some chairs that I redid, applying it over chalk paint, and there was no discoloration or negative effects. Overall, I am pleased with the results and would recommend this varnish for anyone looking for a protective and attractive finish for their painted furniture.

I purchased and applied this wood protector on my newly installed fence about 10 months ago, after letting the fence age for about 4 months. The application process was easy, as it sprayed easily and required only a simple rinse with water to clean the sprayer. One of my neighbors also installed a fence around the same time but did not use any wood protector, and the difference in the condition of our fences is quite noticeable, especially after a long rain. While the rainwater easily soaked into his boards, it simply beads up and runs off my protected fence, without penetrating the wood. I'm extremely satisfied with the performance of this product, and the fact that it is safe to use around plants, pets, and people is a big plus.

Update after 2 years: I recently decided to reapply the wood protector on my fence and purchased another 5 gallons for the job. Before doing so, I power washed the fence and was pleased to see that the water was still beading on the slats, indicating that the previous application was still effective. I probably could have gone another 6 months or so before retreating. However, I did notice mildew on a section of the fence that faces north and is under trees. Although the mildew was easily removed with the power washer, I believe it would have been much worse if the wood had been left untreated. Nonetheless, there was still some mildew present.

I also used this wood protector on a teak table that I made about 6 years ago. The table has been exposed to the elements on my deck for all 365 days of those 6 years. Initially, I used teak oil on the table, but it did not last through the winter. However, this wood protector was easy to apply, and I followed the recommendation of giving the table two coats. The finish of this product is more natural compared to teak oil, and I am very pleased with the result. The gallon jug I purchased will last me for many years to come.

Now, I must admit that I may not have followed the instructions properly on another occasion. I used this wood protector in a weed sprayer and applied three coats to my raised flower bed before adding soil. As a result, whenever I water the bed or it rains, the water beads up and sits on top, even after a rain shower. I did paint the bed the following day after it rained, but living in Arizona with intense sun, it likely dried out the wood quickly. However, for non-garden uses, I sanded down the handle of my outdoor shovel and applied this wood protector. The handle now feels very smooth, and I am also considering using it to spray an outside door to prevent a tomcat from spraying on it.

I recently purchased this sealant and I must say, I am impressed. The color is absolutely stunning and it provides excellent coverage. At just $20 a gallon, it was a steal, although I have noticed that the price has gone up since then. However, I believe that it is worth every penny.

Unlike other products I have tried, this sealant does not dissipate into nothing. It truly locks on to the wood, ensuring a long-lasting and strong bond. I live in Florida, where the weather can be quite harsh, but this sealant has proven to be incredibly durable. It stays on, no matter what.

Applying this sealant was a breeze. It is easy to work with and the honey gold color is simply beautiful. I was initially disappointed because the color I wanted was not available due to supply chain shortages, but I quickly fell in love with the honey gold shade. It rolled on smoothly and any excess was easily cleaned up with soap and water.

While I adore this product, I must mention that the delivery process was a nightmare. I had three attempts made and all three resulted in disastrous outcomes. The cans were opened and the contents spilled, which is completely inexcusable. However, despite this issue, I still love the product and have been using it for years. It is a shame that it is no longer available locally, which is why I have been repeatedly ordering it.

The delivery head of this satin urethane is exceptional. It provides a smooth and controlled spray with a fan-like shape, making it easy to work with and allowing for even passes of urethane coating. The thin coats dry quickly, allowing for multiple coats to be applied within a short period of time. This is a great advantage as it enables you to complete your project in one session.

However, it is important to note that this product does generate a significant amount of fumes and light air-bound particles. Therefore, it is crucial to apply it in a well-ventilated area to ensure safety.

The end result of using this satin urethane is a remarkably even and satin finish. It provides excellent weatherproofing and protection for painted surfaces. The reviewer mentions using it on fake hawks, and the finish has maintained the realistic appearance of the hawks while preventing any concerns of peeling paint. This is a testament to the durability and effectiveness of this product.

It is worth mentioning that some reviews claim that this satin urethane appears glossy. However, this is likely due to improper mixing. It is essential to thoroughly stir the product for at least 5 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom, to ensure an even distribution of the sheen throughout.

Another reviewer used this product on their wooden doors and found it to be highly satisfactory. Despite the inconvenience of having to order it online, the urethane provided excellent protection and weather resistance. The reviewer also noted that one can was sufficient for applying two coats on both doors, which is a testament to the coverage and efficiency of this product.

Additionally, this satin urethane was used to protect unassembled and unfinished outdoor wood furniture. The application was easy, and the urethane dried quickly, allowing for multiple coats to be applied. The reviewer found that three coats produced a non-glossy protective coat that enhanced the beauty of the wood. Although the furniture has not been exposed to the elements yet, the reviewer plans to update the review in the future to assess its durability.

It is important to mention that there is a water-based version of this satin urethane available. However, the oil-based version is recommended for its consistency and coverage. The water-based version requires more coats and is thinner in consistency. Therefore, it is advisable to choose the oil-based version for outdoor projects.

I recently purchased a low VOC, pet-safe sealant to protect my rabbits' housing and hides, and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. I decided to use it in combination with Cuprinol Garden Shades to provide extra weather and waterproof protection, as well as to safeguard against my rabbits' urine. So far, it has been working wonders.

The application process was a breeze. After giving the sealant a thorough shake and stir, it applied easily and covered the surfaces well. It also dried quickly, just as stated. Surprisingly, one tin was able to cover my entire 7ft bunny castle, both inside and out, with a small amount left over. I applied multiple thin coats to gradually build up the protection. However, I did accidentally use a bit too much in some areas, resulting in a slightly milky and hardened blob. But since I am using it for my pets' housing, this minor issue doesn't bother me, as it was caused by human error.

I am extremely pleased with this sealant, especially considering it is priced similarly to other products of its kind. It was the only safe, water-based sealant I could find for my furry babies' housing and furniture. Overall, it has provided the desired protection and peace of mind for my rabbits' well-being.

In addition, I also used this sealant to paint over emulsion on the tiles in my kitchen. Previously, the tiles had been painted with tile paint, but I wanted a change. Without the lacquer, the paint would easily come away from the tiles. However, with two coats of this sealant, the paint is now securely adhered, allowing me to wash my walls without worrying about any paint removal. I was pleasantly surprised by how far one can of sealant spread. I didn't think I would have enough, but I still have a third of a can left. The application process was smooth, thanks to a 2.5" paint brush, and I will definitely recommend and repurchase this product.

Furthermore, I used a roller to apply a single coating of Hemway Clear Satin Lacquer to the wooden floor of my room. The difference it has made is remarkable. Prior to the lacquer coating, the floor had a poor finish, both in appearance and feel. I was concerned about potential wood decay and mold growth due to moisture. However, after applying the lacquer, the floor now has a beautiful glossy finish and feels pleasant when walking barefoot. I no longer have to worry about decay or mold thanks to the protective layer. Additionally, I was impressed by the product's economy. It took just a little over half a can to cover my entire 35-40 square meter floor.

I recently built an outdoor bar height table using dried cedar for my deck and was in search of the perfect finish. After trying out Thompsons Timber Oil and an Olympic product, I was not satisfied with the results. The color appeared artificial and I was concerned about the longevity of the finishes. However, a friend recommended Rustoleum Spar Varnish, which he had used on his outdoor bathroom made of cedar. Intrigued by his positive experience, I gave it a try, and I must say, I am extremely pleased with the outcome.

Rustoleum Spar Varnish ticks all the boxes for me. It provides excellent protection from the sun, and its ability to expand and contract with the wood without cracking is a huge plus. Moreover, it leaves a beautiful deep coloring on my cedar table, enhancing its overall appearance. I purchased two quarts of this varnish and I am already looking forward to using it on my next outdoor project.

In the past, I have used spray urethane on a wooden fence and found it to be satisfactory. However, this year, I decided to give Rustoleum Spar Varnish a try, and I must say, the results were truly amazing. The finish achieved with this varnish is much deeper and more visually appealing than what I had experienced with spray urethane. While it requires more effort, the end result is definitely worth it. As many will agree, proper preparation is key. I recommend sanding the wood well, applying thin coats, allowing them to dry, and repeating the process. Don't be discouraged if the initial coats don't look great, as sanding lightly and applying additional coats will result in a glass-like finish after 3-4 thin coats. I also suggest thinning the first coats for easier application and applying the final coat without thinning. Additionally, investing in a decent brush specifically designed for oil-based varnish or using high-quality foam brushes is important. For the final coat, I highly recommend using a brush for optimal results. While achieving great results may take some time and patience, the process itself is relatively simple.

If you follow the directions provided and exercise a dash of common sense, you will be rewarded with a beautiful finish. In my case, I used 7 foam brushes with the intention of applying 5 coats. However, I found that 4 coats were sufficient. It's always a good idea to have spare brushes on hand, just in case. Prior to applying the varnish, make sure to sand the wood down and thoroughly clean it. Allow the wood to dry completely before applying the first coat. After 4 to 6 hours (depending on the temperature and humidity), reapply the varnish or sand the surface after 12 hours before proceeding. By following these steps, you will achieve an amazing finish on your wood projects.

I wanted to provide an updated review on this product after using it for several years. Firstly, I must mention that I have noticed some wearing on the deck after three years of application. However, I want to clarify that I am not a professional and I may not have applied the product as well as I should have. It is important to note that certain sections of the deck seem to be holding up better than others. Additionally, the deck itself is quite old, possibly around 30 years or more, which may also be a contributing factor to the wear and tear.

In June 2021, I treated the deck again after having it power washed, and I am still thrilled with the way the product is working. I have even added a couple of pictures to showcase the results. The product has proven to be effective in protecting the wood and repelling water, as evidenced by the beaded water on the deck. The furniture, which was also treated, has held up well, with most of it being in better condition compared to certain areas of the deck.

When I initially received the product in November 2020, I was unsure of what to expect. It appeared somewhat thin, but understanding that it is water-based helped me make sense of its consistency. Despite this, I have been very pleased with the results so far. I applied the product with a brush, and the color I chose, bronze cedar, turned out beautiful on new wood. However, it should be noted that the color may appear slightly different when used on wood previously treated with a different product.

The pictures I have included show the true color of the deck boards that I treated. It is important to mention that the rest of the deck has not yet been treated, which is why you can see the difference in water beading on the treated boards versus the untreated ones. The furniture pictures display the "before" and "after" results of the treatment. Despite the furniture being in a less than ideal condition, the product has worked well in rejuvenating its appearance.

As an experienced chalk painter, I have come across various finishes for my pieces. While I appreciate the aesthetic of a waxed finish, it is not always practical for pieces that are frequently used. Wax tends to be susceptible to watermarks and daily wear, which led me to search for a more durable alternative.

Recently, I purchased a new home and decided to go for a unique look by opting for chalk painted white wood plank kitchen counters and a stained wood island. Given that kitchen counters are constantly in use and prone to stains, I wanted to ensure their protection without compromising usability. Many people doubted my choice of white wood counters, but I remained steadfast in my decision.

To achieve the desired result, my contractor assembled the wood for me, and I diligently painted the counters, followed by several coats of polyurethane. I used a round head brush for the application, applying approximately six coats per countertop. I did not sand between each coat but did so every other coat.

For the stained wood island, I chose the satin Minwax and applied even more polyurethane due to the nature of staining. Stains tend to seep into the wood, necessitating additional layers of protection. In this case, I applied around twelve coats to ensure adequate safeguarding.

I am pleased to report that the polyurethane finish has exceeded my expectations. Despite regular cooking, water spills, spaghetti sauce, and grease splatters, all it takes is a simple wipe with a towel or sponge to clean up any mess. The water-based Minwax variant I used emits minimal to no odor, which is a significant advantage. It is crucial to remember not to shake the product to prevent bubbling. Instead, stirring with a plastic disposable spoon and applying thin but not excessively thin coats is recommended. While the initial application may appear milky white, it dries clear, offering a seamless finish.

In terms of finish preference, I personally favor the Matte or satin options, although the choice ultimately depends on the specific project. Given that my counters are in the kitchen, I anticipate reapplying the polyurethane after a year to ensure their long-term durability. A few more coats should suffice for maintaining their excellent condition.

Having tried numerous polyurethane finishes and sealers, I can confidently say that Minwax stands out as the best and most durable option. It not only provides exceptional protection but also maintains the integrity of my chalk painted surfaces, making it a worthwhile investment for any avid chalk painter.

I recently purchased a teak table with a "weathered finish" that unfortunately started peeling off during the winter when I left it uncovered. Unable to return it, I decided to take matters into my own hands and restore the table myself. After sanding the top with a palm sander and applying a single coat of Thomson's water seal, I am extremely pleased with the results.

The process of sanding and applying the water seal was surprisingly easy, even for someone like me who isn't particularly handy. The color change on the teak was noticeable, but it actually made the table look richer and more vibrant. The pictures I posted of the table's evolution clearly show the difference in color from the raw sanded wood. Additionally, the finish has a pleasant tactile feel to it. Despite heat or rain, the wood remains smooth and not tacky to the touch, even after two months.

One of the things I found inconvenient was the difficulty in opening the container. I had to use a hammer and a large nail to pierce the metal sealed spout beneath the plastic screw cap. This was the only frustrating aspect of using this product. It's worth noting that I applied the water seal when the air temperature was slightly below the manufacturer's recommended minimum, which resulted in a longer absorption time of 5 days. So, it's important to take temperature into consideration when using this product.

During the application process, I noticed that drips can occur and potentially mark the floor surface below. I would recommend covering up the area and returning after 30 minutes to wipe away any slow-moving drips. On a positive note, the paintbrush can be stored in a ziplock bag and reused without cleaning, as it doesn't dry out.

The coverage of this container is impressive. A little goes a long way, and it only took a single coat to achieve the desired result. However, it's important to keep in mind that the effect of Thomson's water seal does wear off over time. Based on my understanding, I will likely need to reapply it next year, especially since I plan on covering the table during the winter.