There are many ways to protect your wood from rot with pressure-treatment being the chief of all. The process involves introducing chemicals that repel insects into wood pores. Besides treating wood, other protective measures in the form of the best pressure treated wood sealer enhance overall wood protection. However, if it was that easy to shop for a wood sealant, then everyone will be a happy homeowner. Since there are many products in the market, trying to place the best out of the pack can be stressful. Read our best pressure treated wood sealer reviews to make your purchase worth it.
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We have also included a section about how to buy the products and answered a few questions that will help your purchase.
Contents
The Best Pressure Treated Wood Sealer Review
Minwax 40910000 Wipe-On Poly Finish Clear, pint, Satin
The Minwax 40910000 does not have the flashy appearance of a gloss but a luxurious coat for the best wood treatment. However, it is available in a thick gloss finish for flexible product selection. The product ensures flawless application as the coat is easy to apply and control. The thin consistency of the finish makes it easy to wipe on a very evenly distributed coat. Once you start pilling the coats, it starts to build into a magnificent finish. Clean-up is easy with warm water and soap. Plus, it comes in handy to add a layer of shine to make your wood look expensive.
Pros
- Oil-based polyurethane
- Easy to apply
- No sticky residue
Cons
- The overwhelming smell lingers a bit
Minwax 21600000 High-Performance Wood Filler, 12-Ounce Can
The 21600000 wood filler is another product by Minwax that is handy for filling wood and other hardware. The product is available in an easy-to-use 12-ounce can for quick application. More than use on wood, the sealer works excellently in repairing doors, carriage bolts, etc. The color also does not change much, and it is available in a generous amount. Although it sets up hard, it is easy to sand for a joint fill that will not crack. The sealer also doubles as a wood adhesive, and the two-part compound can be used to repair decks, tables, and other furniture parts.
Pros
- Will not shrink
- Can be carved or drilled into
- Easy to work with
Cons
- Hardens too quickly
Zinnser 03688 Covers Up Stain Sealing Ceiling Paint
Extend the life of your ceiling with the Zinnser 03688 Covers Up Stain Sealing Ceiling Paint. The oil-based paint destroys stains and covers it up for a neat ceiling appearance. It is also easy to use as the can feature a dispensing nozzle that eliminates stressful and messy application. Besides spraying on easily, the paint goes directly on the area, and there are no drips. Since the can is quite large, it comes in handy to cover larger areas. However, we recommend that you cover your stuff before spraying to preventing getting paint on precious assets.
Pros
- Vertical nozzle
- Easy to clean up
- Color blends well
Cons
- There is a very fine dust that comes with the spray
PC Products PC-Petrifier Water-Based Wood Hardener
Whatever the type of wood or damage, the PC Products PC-Petrifier Water-Based Wood Hardener promises reliable performance. The liquid formula can be injected directly, sprayed, or brushed into the pores of the affected wood without the need for pre-mixing. The penetrating ability of the sealer is thanks to its low viscosity that allows deep penetration. It does not only seal woods; you can use the product to prepare your old wood for painting and priming. Do note that the product is not best for carrying out structural repairs.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- No mixing required
- Cleans up with water
Cons
- Runs too much on a vertical surface
Loctite PL Premium Polyurethane Construction Adhesive 10-Ounce Cartridge
Another waterproof sealer that is suitable for use in a cold and hot environment is the Loctite PL Premium Polyurethane Construction Adhesive 10-Ounce Cartridge. The polyurethane-based adhesive can be used for exterior and interior projects and can be applied to wet, frozen, or dry wood. It also bonds well with other construction materials like concrete, carpets, metal, and more. The sealer is moisture-resistant and is not affected by dampness or changes in temperature. We recommend that you buy only the necessary quantity as the product is of little use once it is opened.
Pros
- Superior bonding
- Bonds with most material
- Indoor or outdoor use
Cons
- A little hard to get out
RUST-OLEUM Watco A67141 Teak Oil Finish
The Watco A67141 Teak Oil Finish by RUST-OLEUM is formulated to penetrate wood pores for a warm and rich finish. The product does not only provide interior protection, but it also offers exterior protection for dense woods like mahogany, teak, and rosewood. The sealer has a dry time of 8-hours and covers up to 170 sq ft. For absolute protection, it provides moisture and UV-resistance. The oil finish nourishes and conditions the wood and wipes down quickly and easily. It also goes on and soaks in swiftly plus wipes down wholly and cleanly.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Works on hard and exotic woods
- Fast drying time
Cons
- Application indoor is not recommended
Flex Seal Brite Liquid Rubber Sealant Coating
The Flex-Seal Brite Liquid Rubber Sealant Coating is an excellent product for filling seams and covering woods. Available in different colors and forms, the product is great for various projects where water-repelling and sealing are necessary. The spray makes it easy to use by people of different ages. The product package also features a ventilation guideline, though overwhelming, but should prove useful.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Dries quickly
- Made in the USA
Cons
- The spray is thin
Rubberseal Liquid Rubber Waterproofing and Protective Coating
A single container of the Rubberseal Liquid Rubber Waterproofing and Protective Coating will protect and waterproof wood. The thick sealant does not only seal the wood; it makes it hard enough to resist pounding and rugged use without crumbling. Multiple coats of the coating are easy to apply and do not fade as it dries. It reduces heat penetration, ambient air temperatures, and increases the lifetime of your wood. It also makes it impervious to water and helps your wood retain its flexibility.
Pros
- Insulating properties
- Low VOC
- EPA energy star rated
Cons
- Hard to wash off
DEFY Extreme 1 Gallon Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain
The water-based DEFY Extreme 1 Gallon Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain gives a beautiful and natural matte finish. The sealer features zinc Nano-particle technology that acts as a sunscreen for woods. The tiny particles are dispersed on the affected part to prevent color loss. It also features high-quality resin to make your wood fade-resistant. Another significant feature of the product is that it is easy to maintain. Rather than strip or sand the surface for a newer application, you can simply add a new layer to the existing one. Plus, it also dries quickly for fast use.
Pros
- Water-based solution
- Easy to maintain
- 250 VOC compliant
Cons
- How much you put can affect color consistency
Flex Seal Spray Rubber Sealant Coating
Another product by Flex Seal, the spray sealant coating acts as a thick adhesive for sealing wood surfaces. Designed to work on dry and wet surfaces, the product is solvent-free and UV-resistant. It is protecting the surface from corrosions as it seals out water and lasts for years. Easy-to-use and portable spray can make it easy to use the sealant on the go. The liquid coating sprays and seeps into holes and cracks and dries to make it watertight. In all, it is a good way to fill the gaps in your wood with color.
Pros
- Wide application
- Great spray adhesive
- Reduce finger fatigue
Cons
- Nozzle clogs quickly
Rust-Oleum Zinsser 408 Bulls Eye Clear Shellac Spray
The alcohol-based Rust-Oleum Zinsser 408 Bulls Eye Clear Shellac Spray is available in amber and clear design to give your wood a faint golden cast. As a result, the finish is lighter than oil-based finishes. We recommend that you don’t breathe it in and apply it in a well-ventilated area. A light spray dries quickly and goes on nicely on woods. Plus, it gives a hard and smooth finish. The spray nozzle features ensure easy spray application for a classic finish. It also has a dry to touch time of about 20 minutes, and you can recoat it after one hour.
Pros
- Glossy finish
- Fast drying time
- Convenient and easy to use
Cons
- Lots of fumes
THOMPSONS WATERSEAL TH.041841-16 Transparent Waterproofing Stain
The THOMPSONS WATERSEAL TH.041841-16 Transparent Waterproofing Stain prevents water damage and does a good job restoring old woods. Advanced polymer content in the sealant prevents the color from fading. The coating also prevents UV damages and makes your wood mildew-resistant. Plus, you can apply it to freshly cleaned dry or damp wood. An above industry-standard D-4446 for waterproofing wood underlines the performance of the product. For flexible application, you can apply the sealant with a roller or a pump sprayer.
Pros
- Flexible application method
- Transparent color
- UV-protection
Cons
- Won’t penetrate well without sanding the surface
KILZ Premium High-Hide Stain Blocking Interior/Exterior Latex Primer/Sealer
Handle sealing your wood by yourself with the KILZ Premium High-Hide Stain Blocking Interior/Exterior Latex Primer/Sealer. The product support DIY application with its easy to use and user-friendly design. The water-based and stain-blocking formula seals wooden surfaces to hide stains and achieve a uniform finish. It also offers excellent adhesion to other surfaces besides wood. The product seals porous and small surfaces and fortifies them against mold and mildew. Low VOCs and low odor also make it safe for children, pets, and other occupants of the home.
Pros
- Ideal for light and heavy stains
- Mildew-resistant coating
- Low odor
Cons
- The package came leaking for some buyers
#1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks
The Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain doubles as a deck sealant and stain in a single package. Hence, it is an excellent product for protecting your deck from harsh elements and correcting any such damages. The multi-purpose sealant prevents damages caused by water penetrating woods and works on damp and dry woods. The product is also available in five different colors of natural-looking finishes. Clean up is also comfortable with soap and water.
Pros
- Nice and even finish
- Coat soaks beautifully
- Easy to clean
Cons
- A little difficult to pour without splashing
Ready Seal 145 Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood
The Ready Seal does not require priming nor wet-line application. It also does not require thinning or diluting before spraying. Furthermore, it does not require back brushing as it does not run. Instead, you can apply it onto your wooden surfaces with a brush, roller, or sprayer. The sealant blends itself; hence, it can be applied at different temperatures. The manufacturer warns not to apply the product on newly stained or painted surfaces.
Pros
- Easy to put on
- Sealer plus stain in one
- Mold and mildew-resistant
Cons
- Inconsistent color description
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Pressure Treated Wood Sealer
Durability and Strength
The quality of the product hinges on the two elements of the durability and strength of the sealer. Since the sealants are products of different manufacturers, they often surpass each other in terms of strength and durability. The best products are such that promise lasting wood protection and have a fast application process.
Ease of Application
Pressure treated wood sealer is available in different sizes, designs, and methods of use. For example, some products are packaged in spray cans with a nozzle for easy and even spraying. Others come in cans and containers, depending on what you want. The standard rule to this is to look for a product with the most flexible and most comfortable method of application. The sealer should be easy to apply that you will have little or no need for instructions on how to use it.
Versatility
The ability to use your sealant on other surfaces besides wood is an advantage that comes in handy in the long run. Most of the products we have reviewed, for example, work on metal, ceramics, and a host of other materials. Hence, it lets you get the best out of your investment. You should also look for products that not only work on dry wood but will do just fine if applied on damp wood.
Resistance
The essence of purchasing a pressure treated wood sealer is to protect the wood from damage. Since damages come in different forms, it is best to have a product that functions in more than one capacity. When shopping for a sealer, you should bear in mind the level of protection that you want. Some of the common ones are mold and mildew-resistant, UV-resistant, and moisture-resistant.
Color
Transparent sealers are the best. This is because they don’t change the color or appearance of your wood. If you don’t want a colored finished job, then you can opt-in for one of these. However, if you don’t mind having a colored structure, then you can choose a colored sealer or a semi-transparent one.
The Type of Sealer
The most popular options are oil-based and water-based sealers. The water-based sealers have less toxicity and odor. The finish is also a bit hard and could change the color of your wood or cover the grain. On the upside, it has a fast drying time. We recommend the oil-based products if you care about the appearance of your wood. The finish darkens the wood and adds a level of shine to reflect light.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What does the wood sealer do?
The sealer is best for coating wood surfaces as a way of protecting your wood from moisture. It works by penetrating the pores and hardens with time the entire wood surface.
- What is the best sealer for treated wood?
We can’t act as the authority on this as there are quite a number of potential answers. However, we have reviewed some of the best products above from trusted brands around the World.
- How often should I seal my wood?
We recommend re-sealing your wood every year. However, if you stay in areas with harsh weather conditions or moisture, we recommend twice a year.
- How long should I wait for my sealer to dry?
It usually takes up to 48 hours for a sealer to dry completely. However, factors like the location of the wood and proximity to sunlight affect dry time. Rainfall and humidity are other things to consider. We recommend that you check the dry time of the product before buying it.
Conclusion
Buying the best pressure treated wood sealer looks overwhelming, but it shouldn’t be without enough cue from our review. We have compiled a list of the best products, and we recommend that you check out of factors to consider to minimize the risk of getting ripped off. Happy buying.
