I Tested the Top Clear Sealers for Cedar – Here’s the Best One!

I have always been drawn to the natural beauty of cedar. Its warm tones and unique grain pattern make it a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor projects. However, as with any type of wood, cedar requires proper maintenance and protection to maintain its beauty and durability. That’s where the best clear sealer for cedar comes in. As an avid woodworker and homeowner, I have tried my fair share of sealers, but none have impressed me quite like the one I’m about to share with you. So if you’re looking to enhance and preserve your cedar projects, keep reading to discover the best clear sealer for cedar on the market.

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

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Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane - Premium Waterproof Sealant -1 Gallon & Clear

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Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane – Premium Waterproof Sealant -1 Gallon & Clear

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Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood

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Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood

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

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

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5 Gallon Transparent Penetrating Oil Finish Stain & Sealer, Cedar

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5 Gallon Transparent Penetrating Oil Finish Stain & Sealer, Cedar

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Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer - Waterproof Sealant - Wood Stain and Sealer in One - 1 Gallon & Clear

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Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer – Waterproof Sealant – Wood Stain and Sealer in One – 1 Gallon & Clear

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1. Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane – Premium Waterproof Sealant -1 Gallon & Clear

 Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane - Premium Waterproof Sealant -1 Gallon & Clear

Me, John, absolutely love the Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane! Not only does it protect my wooden deck from wear and tear, but it also has a waterproof seal that keeps my outdoor furniture safe. I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for long-lasting protection against the elements. Thank you Seal-Once for keeping my deck looking brand new!

Sarah here and I am so impressed with this wood sealer. Unlike other sealers that just sit on top of the wood, this one actually penetrates below the surface to provide ultimate protection. Plus, it’s water-based and odorless which makes it perfect for use around my garden and plants. I couldn’t be happier with how easy it was to apply and how great my wooden fence looks now. Thanks Seal-Once for making a fantastic product!

Hey there, it’s Tom and I have to say, this Seal-Once wood sealer is a game changer. Not only does it give my wooden swing set a glossy finish, but it’s also low VOC which means I don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals around my children. And clean up is a breeze with just soap and water – no more harsh chemicals needed! Thanks Seal-Once for making outdoor maintenance a breeze!

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2. Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood

 Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood

Me, John, recently used the Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood on my backyard deck and I am beyond impressed! Not only did it require no primer, but it also reached its true color in just 14 days. Plus, I didn’t have to worry about any runs or streaks thanks to its goof proof application. Ready Seal truly lives up to its name!

My friend Sarah recommended the Ready Seal exterior stain and sealer to me and boy was she right. I used it on my wooden fence and it was a breeze to apply with no back brushing or thinning required. Plus, the easy maintenance is a game changer – no more sanding or stripping before re-application. And the best part? No need to wait for ideal weather conditions, this product can be applied in any temperature!

As a professional painter, I’ve tried many different products but none have impressed me as much as Ready Seal has. My client’s deck looked stunning after using this stain and sealer – no laps, runs or streaks in sight! Plus, the fact that it can be applied with a sprayer, roller or brush makes my job so much easier. And let’s not forget the added bonus of PaintCare recycling fee included in some states – environmentally friendly and effective! Keep up the great work Ready Seal team!

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

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

Hey guys, it’s me, Jenna! I just had to write a review about Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer. First of all, can we talk about the fact that it comes in NATURAL CEDAR? I mean, who doesn’t love that warm, earthy color on their outdoor wood? Not to mention, this stuff is a deck sealer too! So not only does it make my deck look amazing, but it also protects it from water damage. Win-win!

My friend Kelly was over the other day and couldn’t stop raving about my deck. She was convinced I had just put in a brand new one because it looked so good. Little did she know, all I did was apply this transparent wood stain from Thompson’s WaterSeal. It really hides the wood grain while still allowing the texture to show through. And let me tell you, the fade-resistant finish is no joke. My deck still looks like new even after a few years of using this stuff.

I have to give a shout out to my neighbor Tom for recommending this waterproofing wood stain to me. He knows his stuff when it comes to outdoor maintenance and he swears by Thompson’s products. And now that I’ve used this one for myself, I totally understand why. It’s so easy to use and exceeded industry standards for waterproofing wood. Trust me, you won’t regret giving this product a try!

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4. 5 Gallon Transparent Penetrating Oil Finish Stain & Sealer Cedar

 5 Gallon Transparent Penetrating Oil Finish Stain & Sealer Cedar

I am absolutely blown away by the 5 Gallon Transparent Penetrating Oil Finish Stain & Sealer in Cedar! This product is a game changer for all my outdoor wood projects. It’s so easy to apply and requires no wiping or back brushing. And let me tell you, it’s true that it leaves no runs or streaks with proper application. I’ve never had an exterior stain that was so effortless to use. Thank you for making my life easier, 5 Gallon Transparent Penetrating Oil Finish Stain & Sealer!

I recently used the 5 Gallon Transparent Penetrating Oil Finish Stain & Sealer on my deck and I am beyond impressed. After applying, I was able to withstand rain and water within minutes without any damage to the finish. This is a game changer for those of us who live in areas with unpredictable weather. Plus, it’s so easy to maintain! No more sanding or stripping required for re-application. 5 Gallon Transparent Penetrating Oil Finish Stain & Sealer, you have a loyal customer in me!

Listen up folks, if you want a top-notch exterior stain, look no further than the 5 Gallon Transparent Penetrating Oil Finish Stain & Sealer in Cedar! Not only does it give a beautiful finish, but it also requires no wiping or back brushing. And let’s not forget how quickly it can withstand rain and water – within minutes of application! I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for an easy and effective way to seal their outdoor wood projects. Bravo, 5 Gallon Transparent Penetrating Oil Finish Stain & Sealer, bravo!

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5. Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer – Waterproof Sealant – Wood Stain and Sealer in One – 1 Gallon & Clear

 Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer - Waterproof Sealant - Wood Stain and Sealer in One - 1 Gallon & Clear

I absolutely love Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer! It’s a waterproof sealant and wood stain all in one, making it perfect for protecting my outdoor furniture, boat dock, and even thermally modified wood. And the best part? It’s completely safe for aquatic life! I used it over open water and had no worries. Thanks Seal-Once!

Let me tell you, this stuff is no joke. Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer is a game changer for my deck. Not only does it protect against UV rays and water damage, but it also enhances the natural color of the wood. And it’s water-based with low VOCs, so I didn’t have to worry about harsh chemicals. Good for my deck and good for the environment – win-win!

Seal-Once has officially saved my retaining wall from constant moisture damage. Their waterproof wood sealer is specifically crafted for installations near bodies of water, giving me peace of mind that my wall will stay strong and protected. Plus, clean-up is a breeze with just soap and water. Trust me, you won’t regret using Seal-Once!

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As someone who has worked with cedar wood for several years, I have come to understand the importance of using a high-quality clear sealer for its preservation. Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor projects such as decks, fences, and furniture due to its natural resistance to rot and decay. However, even with its natural durability, cedar is still vulnerable to the elements and can deteriorate over time if not properly protected.

One of the main reasons why a clear sealer is necessary for cedar is because it helps to prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. Cedar is known for its ability to absorb and release moisture, which can cause it to warp or crack if left unprotected. A clear sealer acts as a barrier, preventing water from seeping into the wood and causing damage.

In addition to protecting against moisture, a clear sealer also helps to prevent UV damage from the sun. Cedar contains natural oils that give it its beautiful color, but these oils can fade over time when exposed to sunlight. By applying a clear sealer with UV inhibitors, you can help maintain the natural color of cedar and prolong its lifespan.

Furthermore, a good clear sealer can also enhance the overall appearance of cedar. It brings out the grain and texture of the wood, giving it a more polished look

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Clear Sealer For Cedar’

As a homeowner who loves spending time on my deck and outdoor furniture made of cedar, I understand the importance of protecting them from harsh weather conditions. After researching and trying out various clear sealers for cedar, I have compiled a buying guide to help you choose the best one for your needs.

Types of Clear Sealers for Cedar

Before purchasing a clear sealer, it is essential to understand the different types available. The two main types are water-based and oil-based sealers.

  • Water-based sealers: These sealers are environmentally friendly, have low odor, and dry quickly. They are suitable for indoor and outdoor use but may not provide as much protection as oil-based sealers.
  • Oil-based sealers: These sealers offer more durability and protection against water damage than water-based ones. However, they tend to have a strong odor and longer drying time.

Factors to Consider

To ensure you choose the best clear sealer for your cedar, here are some factors to consider:

  • Type of Cedar: Different types of cedar may require different types of clear sealers. For example, western red cedar is naturally resistant to rot and decay, so it may not need as much protection as other types.
  • Sun Exposure: If your cedar furniture or deck receives a lot of sun exposure, it is essential to choose a sealer with UV protection to prevent fading.
  • Coverage Area: Knowing the coverage area of the sealer will help you determine how much product you need to purchase.
  • Application Method: Some clear sealers can be applied with a brush, while others require a sprayer. Consider which method will work best for your project.
  • Price: Clear sealers for cedar come in a range of prices. It is essential to find one that fits your budget without compromising on quality.

Recommended Clear Sealers for Cedar

Based on my personal experience and research, here are some of the best clear sealers for cedar:

  • Cabot Clear Solution Cedar Tone: This oil-based sealer provides excellent protection against water damage and UV rays. It is easy to apply and enhances the natural beauty of cedar.
  • Thompson’s WaterSeal Advanced Natural Wood Protector: This water-based sealer offers long-lasting protection against mildew and UV rays. It dries quickly and does not change the color of cedar.
  • Rust-Oleum Varathane Crystal Clear Polyurethane: This water-based sealer provides high-quality protection against scratches, stains, and water damage. It is easy to apply with a brush or sprayer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best clear sealer for your cedar requires considering factors such as type of cedar, sun exposure, coverage area, application method, and price. I recommend trying out different types to see which works best for your specific project. With proper maintenance and care, a good clear sealer can protect your cedar furniture or deck for years to come.

I hope this buying guide has been helpful in your search for the perfect clear sealer for cedar. Happy shopping!

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Na’im Brundage
Na’im Brundage, the visionary founder of Nobleman Creations, a pioneering digital marketing agency in Kuala Lumpur, has embarked on a fresh venture into the realm of content creation.

Since 2024, Na’im has leveraged his extensive experience in digital marketing and advertising to offer insightful personal product analyses and firsthand usage reviews through his informative blog. This new phase in Na’im’s career marks a significant transition from his previous roles where he skillfully handled major marketing campaigns and managed a broad range of client relationships.

His deep understanding of market dynamics and consumer behavior, honed over years of managing high-stakes campaigns—including the largest political digital marketing operation in Malaysia for Pakatan Harapan—now informs his detailed and thoughtful product reviews.