Protecting a redwood deck begins with a high-quality clear sealer that blocks moisture, resists UV damage, and preserves the wood’s natural grain. This guide reviews top clear sealers designed for exterior decks, fences, and other wood surfaces. Each option offers clear coverage, easy application, and durable protection to keep redwood looking vibrant year after year.
Summary of selected products
| Product | Brand | Size | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer | Thompson’s | 1 Gallon | Year-round protection in one coat; waterproofs wood |
| DEFY Extreme Crystal Clear Outdoor Wood Stain and Sealer | DEFY | 1 Gallon | UV-blocking clear sealant; long-lasting protection |
| Flood FLD521 Redwood CWF-UV Exterior Clear Wood Finish | Flood | 1 Gallon | Translucent penetrating finish; moisture and UV protection |
| OLYMPIC WaterGuard Clear Exterior Wood Sealer | OLYMPIC | 1 Gallon | Ready-to-use waterproofer; wide surface compatibility |
| Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain (Clear) | Thompson’s | 1 Gallon | Clear stain with waterproofing for multiple exterior surfaces |
Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, 1 Gallon
Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer offers year-round protection with a single coat capability designed to prevent water damage. The sealer creates a moisture barrier that helps protect redwood from water penetration while maintaining a natural look. It is tested to exceed industry standards for waterproofing (ASTM-D4446) and is suitable for exterior wood surfaces, including decks, fences, and siding. The clear finish hides minor imperfections while allowing the wood grain to show through, making it a popular choice for preserving the natural beauty of redwood without dark staining.
Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear
This Thompson’s Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain provides a clear finish that waterproofs various exterior surfaces, including wood. The clear stain hides the grain while still letting texture show, delivering full protection with a natural look. Its fade-resistant formula helps maintain color and reduces UV damage over time, making it suitable for redwood decks exposed to outdoor elements. Use on exterior wood to extend life while preserving the wood’s natural character.
DEFY Extreme Crystal Clear Outdoor Wood Stain and Sealer (1 Gal)
DEFY Extreme Crystal Clear Outdoor Wood Stain and Sealer combines a clear stain with a waterproof sealant, protecting redwood decking from moisture and UV damage. The formula uses zinc nano-particles to block UV rays, helping preserve the wood’s natural color. It is known for easy application via sprayer, brush, or roller, and reapplication is advised when water absorption becomes noticeable. The product is designed to extend the life of exterior wood and maintain a natural-looking finish that highlights grain texture.
1 gal Flood FLD521 Redwood CWF-UV Exterior Clear Wood Finish
Flood’s Redwood CWF-UV Exterior Clear Wood Finish delivers a translucent, penetrating seal that guards against moisture, mildew, and UV sun damage. This acrylic-oil emulsion provides a balance between protection and the natural texture of redwood. It cleans up with soap and water and is designed for exterior wood surfaces, offering a durable finish that emphasizes the wood’s natural appearance while extending service life in varying weather conditions.
OLYMPIC WaterGuard Clear Exterior Wood Sealer (1 gal)
Olympic WaterGuard is a ready-to-use clear wood sealer that creates a robust waterproof barrier. It is suitable for new, pressure-treated, and weathered wood, making it versatile for redwood decks that may experience seasonal exposure. The water-based formulation provides waterproofing protection with good coverage per gallon and ease of application, enabling homeowners to preserve wood texture and grain while preventing moisture-related damage.
SEAL-ONCE Marine Ready Mix – 2 Gallon (Clear)
Seal-Once Marine Ready Mix is a water-based, ultra-low VOC penetrating wood sealer ideal for high-moisture areas near water. This clear finish provides a UV-stable protective barrier, suitable for outdoor decks, docks, and piers where saltwater spray or high humidity is a concern. It forms a water-resistant shield at the cellular level, helping preserve natural wood color while resisting moisture intrusion in marine environments.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Clear Sealers On Redwood Decks
When selecting a clear sealer for redwood decks, consider moisture resistance, UV protection, ease of application, and maintenance requirements. Clear sealers should not darken the wood excessively, preserving the natural grain. If the deck faces intense sun exposure, UV-blocking formulations help reduce graying and color loss. For wood in salty or marine-adjacent areas, marine-grade or ultra-low VOC formulas offer additional protection and safer environmental profiles. Application methods vary by product; look for options that support spraying, brushing, or rolling. Recoat intervals depend on wear, weather, and the product’s wear rating. Compare coverage rates to estimate how many coats you’ll need for your deck size and plan for reapplication cycles to maintain optimal protection.
Texture and appearance are other important factors. Some products provide a near-transparent finish that preserves texture and grain, while others add a touch of color or tint. For redwood, many homeowners prefer a clear or near-clear finish that enhances the wood’s natural warmth without obscuring grain details. Weather conditions during application—temperature, humidity, and air movement—also influence dry time and film formation. Always follow manufacturer instructions for surface preparation, product mixing, and cleanup to ensure lasting performance.