10 best exterior stain for wood
Exterior wood stain is a type of finish used to protect and enhance the appearance of wood surfaces exposed to outdoor elements. It is commonly used on decks, fences, siding, and other exterior wooden structures. Here are some key points about exterior wood stain:
Protection: One of the primary purposes of exterior wood stain is to protect wood from various environmental factors such as UV rays, moisture, mildew, and temperature fluctuations. It creates a protective barrier that helps prevent wood from rotting, cracking, or warping.
Enhanced Appearance: Exterior wood stains come in a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing homeowners to customize the look of their outdoor wood surfaces. Stains can highlight the natural grain and texture of the wood while adding a rich and attractive color.
Types of Exterior Wood Stains:
Transparent Stains: These stains offer minimal color change and are ideal for showcasing the wood's natural beauty while providing basic protection.
Semi-Transparent Stains: These stains add a moderate amount of color to the wood while still allowing some of the grain to show through.
Semi-Solid Stains: These provide more color coverage while maintaining some visibility of the wood grain.
Solid Stains: Solid stains offer the most color coverage and are often used to completely change the appearance of the wood. They provide strong protection against UV rays and weather.
Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Stains: Exterior wood stains are available in both oil-based and water-based formulations. Oil-based stains tend to penetrate deeper into the wood and provide longer-lasting protection, but they may require more maintenance. Water-based stains are easier to clean up and have a lower VOC (volatile organic compound) content, making them more environmentally friendly.
Preparation: Proper surface preparation is crucial before applying exterior wood stain. This typically involves cleaning the wood, sanding rough surfaces, and ensuring the wood is dry and free from any previous coatings.
Application: Exterior wood stain can be applied using brushes, rollers, or sprayers. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding application techniques and drying times.
Maintenance: To maintain the protection and appearance of the wood, it's often necessary to reapply exterior wood stain every few years, depending on the climate and level of exposure to the elements.
Brands and Products: Various brands offer exterior wood stains, including well-known ones like Behr, Cabot, Thompson's WaterSeal, and Olympic. Each brand may offer different product lines tailored to specific needs and preferences.
In summary, exterior wood stain is a versatile product that helps protect and enhance the appearance of outdoor wood surfaces.The choice of stain type, color, and application method depends on individual preferences and the specific requirements of the wood surface in question. Proper maintenance and reapplication are essential for long-lasting protection and aesthetic appeal.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best exterior stain for wood on the marketProduct 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.
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
A good exterior wood stain offers long-lasting protection, waterproofing and a mildew-resistant finish that maintains the integrity and beauty of wood in variable outdoor conditions Our 100% Acrylic formula protects wood from rain, snow and sun damage. This stain is warrantied up to 3 years on decks and up to 5 years on fences and siding (see label for details). Use on properly prepared new to moderately weathered and unsealed exterior wood surfaces (0-10 years exposure) including decks, shingles, wood patio furniture, railings, siding, shakes and fences. This semi-transparent stain provides a mildew-resistant finish and UV protection. Coverage of up to 250 square feet For the first coat and up to 500 square feet For the second coat. This is a 1-Gallon can of KILZ exterior waterproofing, semi-transparent wood stain in Redwood. For failing coatings or to remove loose wood fibers, use a product such as KILZ Wood Stain & Finish Stripper followed by a product such as KILZ Wood Cleaner & Brightener to neutralize the wood. For best results allow the area to dry at least 24 hours before coating. Lightly sand to remove remaining wood fibers/fuzz. Apply with a pad applicator, nylon/polyester brush, or high quality pump sprayer. KILZ has been making premium primers and paints for 40 years. KILZ was named Paint Brand of the Year in 2015 in the Harris Poll EquiTrend Rankings.
- A good exterior wood stain offers long-lasting protection, waterproofing and a mildew-resistant finish that maintains the integrity and beauty of wood in variable outdoor conditions
- Our 100% Acrylic formula protects wood from rain, snow and sun damage. This stain is warrantied up to 3 years on decks and up to 5 years on fences and siding (see label for details).
- Use on properly prepared new to moderately weathered and unsealed exterior wood surfaces (0-10 years exposure) including decks, shingles, wood patio furniture, railings, siding, shakes and fences.
- This semi-transparent stain provides a mildew-resistant finish and UV protection. Coverage of up to 250 square feet For the first coat and up to 500 square feet For the second coat.
- This is a 1-Gallon can of KILZ exterior waterproofing, semi-transparent wood stain in Redwood.
- For failing coatings or to remove loose wood fibers, use a product such as KILZ Wood Stain & Finish Stripper followed by a product such as KILZ Wood Cleaner & Brightener to neutralize the wood.
- For best results allow the area to dry at least 24 hours before coating. Lightly sand to remove remaining wood fibers/fuzz. Apply with a pad applicator, nylon/polyester brush, or high quality pump sprayer.
- KILZ has been making premium primers and paints for 40 years. KILZ was named Paint Brand of the Year in 2015 in the Harris Poll EquiTrend Rankings.
User questions & answers
Question: | What type of solvent would I need to clean an automated sprayer out after using this product (warm water/thinner/solvent/etc |
Answer: | It has a 1080 camera on it. No reason to attach a go pro. |
Question: | Do they sell 5gal buckets |
Answer: | The video quality is good |
Question: | Could this be used to stain plywood subflooring indoors |
Answer: | 7-8 minutes after full charged per battery. |
Question: | Can I use this over pre dyed wood (alcohol stain |
Answer: | Just bought this drone. Absolutely NOT 8 min fly time. After calibration, gps sync, and using the camera to take pics, let alone video.. best fly time was 3.5 minutes.. was same on both batteries. Maybe if you take off and just let it hover with no maneuvers it may be longer. Going to buy another set and see if these were just old batteries. Good luck |
Product features
Durable, Beautiful & Long Lasting
KILZ Stain provides durable, waterproof protection and a mildew-resistant finish that maintains the integrity and beauty of wood in variable outdoor conditions.
One gallon covers up to 250 sq. ft. for the first coat and up to 500 sq. ft. for the second coat.
Ideal for Decks, Siding, Fencing & More
Use on properly prepared new to moderately weathered and unsealed exterior wood surfaces (0-10 years exposure) including decks, shingles, wood patio furniture, railings, siding and fences.
Brush or spray on. Can also be applied with a high-quality paint pad.
Protects from Rain, Snow & Sun Damage
Our Acrylic formula protects wood from weather and UV damage. This stain is warrantied up to 3 years on decks and up to 5 years on fences and siding.
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 |
- 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.
- 100 VOC COMPLIANT - Ships to all states including California
User questions & answers
Question: | will this work in paint gun |
Answer: | Yes, it fits mine! |
Question: | Will be applying to white cedar fence. How dry does the wood have to be |
Answer: | No. Ive had the case for about a month now and my clips have been okay. At first it was hard to put them on but with patience I did and didn't break them. |
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: | No, I don't think so, I already checked my model and your model to compare were not match you may ask them instead. Or type your model first to match before you order. I had few problems with the Apple cases (different company) in the past. Good Luck. |
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: | Dear Ykv,Thank you for contacting us. Please kindly notice that we do not offer Spanish Keyboard cover.Please feel free to contact us, if you have any other questions.Best wishes,Zoe,iBenzer, Inc |
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
#1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is an advanced, water-based, semi-transparent stain formulation designed to penetrate deep into wood pores for maximum protection and longevity. #1 Deck protects wood from harmful UV rays and damage caused by water penetration. #1 Deck is safe to use, has a low odor, and is easy to clean up with soap and water. It is ideal for all soft wood types including pressure treated pine, cedar, fir, or redwood. #1 Deck Premium Wood Stain is intended for all soft wood types of weathered, exterior wood surfaces including decks, fences, siding, outdoor furniture, gazebos and playsets.
- PROTECTS AGAINST COLOR FADE AND PREVENTS GRAYING - #1 Deck Protects Wood From Damage Caused By Exposure to the Elements. Can Be Used On Pressure Treated Pine, Cedar, Fir, Redwood, or Most Other Softwoods. Hardwoods Will Require More Frequent Maintenance Coats.
- BOTH A DECK STAIN & DECK SEALANT IN ONE - #1 Deck Stain Is a Dual-Purpose Stain & Sealer. It Adds Color to Your Wood and Seals it, Preventing Damage Caused by Water Penetration.
- ALLOWS THE WOOD GRAIN TO SHOW THROUGH - Available in 5 Beautiful, Semi-Transparent Deck Stain Colors That Dry to Flat, Natural Looking Finishes That Will Enhance the Beauty of Your Exterior Wood.
- BETTER FOR THE PLANET, EASY SOAP & WATER CLEANUP - With Less Than 50 g/L VOC Content, #1 Deck Sealer Is a Better Choice For Our Planet. Clean Up is Super Easy - Just Use Soap and Water.
- WORKS ON DAMP WOOD, MINIMIZING THE WAIT TIME BETWEEN CLEANING AND STAINING - Once Your Wood Deck Is Visibly Dry, It's Ready to Stain.
User questions & answers
Question: | In the reviews, everyone mentions the light oak color but I don’t see it available. Is it discontinued or renamed |
Answer: | I bought 2 gallons of light oak about a month ago. Look again or call the company. |
Question: | Can I reapply this over the old coat when I need to |
Answer: | I'd clean the boards the best you can and let them dry, and then yes, you can reapply it. It says so on the can. |
Question: | How many sq ft will 2.5 gallons cover |
Answer: | depends. cover says 100 - 150 sq ft per gallon. I used 7.5 gallons on about 600sq ft of deck and barely had enough, that was 2 coats. 1st coat sucked up a lot, 2nd coat went a lot farther |
Question: | How many years on before having to reapply |
Answer: | I live at 9000 ft. in the mountains- .wind, rain, snow, UV. I try to touch up every 2-3 years. |
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 #1 Deck brand, SaverSystems also manufactures DEFY, 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
1. 2 gallon, VOC clear wood protector, VOC Compliant, bonus container, for members in VOC restricted areas.
- Item Weight: 9.65 lb
- Country of Origin: China
- Brand name: Thompson's Water Seal
- Item Dimensions: 4.1"L x 6.6"W x 11.0"H
User questions & answers
Question: | Could this be used on an exterior door to help with swelling from humidity? If so how to apply |
Answer: | I doubt it would help much. It stops water penetration but not humidity problems. |
Question: | Can the protector be applied on damp wood |
Answer: | I think not. |
Question: | Will this work on outdoor mahogany floor |
Answer: | Yes will protect it |
Question: | Hello, Do you have to re-apply every year |
Answer: | Probably. To tell, splash some water on the finish. If the water forms bubbles, the surface is OK for another season. However, after a year the surface may look dirty, and so you may want to clean it and re-seal it. Again, after you clean the surface, splash some water on it and see whether the previous seal still holds. |
User questions & answers
Question: | Can this be applied with garden sprayer |
Answer: | yes it will, that's how I applied it. |
Question: | Can this be applied with garden sprayer |
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 this be used on decks |
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: | does this have any color to it or is it clear |
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. |
Question: | I need this product for the inside of my exterior fiberglass doors. can i also use it for my interior wood doors to maintain the same color throughout |
Answer: | You need to select the size "MacBook Pro 13 Inch (2016, Touch Bar)", this would fit the latest MacBook Pro 13 inch (2017 version). But just to make sure the model number is A1706 or A1708 at the back of your MacBook. |
Question: | Which is darker, the hickory gel stain or walnut gel stain |
Answer: | I have mine for the MacBook Pro 2016 with touch bar,but it is okay. There is a noticeable weight difference, but other than that it is a great case. |
Question: | Do I need to use a wood conditioner first |
Answer: | Don't worry it is coming back next week or so |
Question: | Can Helmsman spar urethane be used over this product (minwax gel stain) to be used on fiberglass door |
Answer: | You need to choose the size "MacBook Pro 13 Inch (2016, Touch Bar)" |
Product features
Minwax Gel Stain
Minwax Gel Stain is specifically designed to give you full control over the staining process and help you achieve beautiful results.
Product description
3601 Features: -Wood stain. -Premium durable stain. -Exterior use. -Fast even coverage. Size: -11 oz - 15 oz. Generic Dimensions: -2.61'' H x 8.2'' W x 2.61'' D, 1.03 lbs. Dimensions: Overall Height - Top to Bottom: -2.61 Inches. Overall Width - Side to Side: -8.2 Inches. Overall Depth - Front to Back: -2.61 Inches. Overall Product Weight: -1.03 Pounds.
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 one describe coffee bean color to be close to what oli rubbed bronze looks like |
Answer: | Yes you can use them because, like the previous commenter said, they are both oil based products. As to the other comment made about using Rustoleum instead....WHAT? Two completely different objectives. Gel Stain is designed to simulate a wood look over anything. It is not meant to create a uniform finish like painting a wall so, comparing Gel Stain to any paint is absurd. Minwax Gel Stain is a great product for people that understand what they are trying to accomplish. I used it on a flexible rubber floor "T" molding transitioning from tile to a wood floor turning the bland tan urethane rubber into looking like wood that was steam bent around a radius. I didn't top coat the Gel Stain with anything and 2 years later, much to my amazement, there is no sign of foot traffic wear. |
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