I’m sold on Ready Seal deck stain, and you should be too! This oil-based, semi-transparent stain and sealer combo transforms your deck into a stunning, weather-resistant masterpiece with minimal fuss.
It’s easy to apply, protects against UV rays and water, and enhances the wood’s natural beauty.
Whether you’re a DIY newbie or a seasoned pro, Ready Seal delivers professional-grade results without breaking the bank. Trust me, your deck deserves this game-changer—grab some and see the difference for yourself!
My Journey With Ready Seal: A Personal Experience
Let me take you back to last summer when I decided to tackle my weathered cedar deck.
It was looking rough—faded, splintery, and screaming for some love.
I’d heard whispers about Ready Seal from a neighbor who swore by it, so I figured, why not give it a shot?
I picked up two gallons of Natural Light Oak, a sprayer, some application pads, and a moisture meter (a must-have, trust me).
The total cost?
About $130, compared to the $800–$1,500 quotes from pros for my 400-square-foot deck.
The prep was straightforward: I pressure-washed the deck, let it dry, and checked the moisture level to ensure it was below 12%. Application was a breeze—like mopping a floor. I used a sprayer for the flat surfaces and a brush for the railings.
The stain went on smoothly, blending perfectly with no lap marks, even when I had to pause and finish the next day. Within 15 minutes, I tested a treated plank against an untreated one with a hose. The treated plank repelled water like a champ, staying at 5% moisture while the untreated one hit 35%.
The result? My deck looked warm and inviting, with the wood grain shining through. It felt homey, not like some overdone showroom piece.
Four years later, it still holds up, though it’s due for a touch-up. I saved a ton of money and got a kick out of doing it myself. Ready Seal made me feel like a pro, and I’m betting it’ll do the same for you.
The Pros of Ready Seal Deck Stain
Ready Seal isn’t just another stain—it’s a game-changer for outdoor wood projects. Here’s why I’m hooked, broken down into the standout features that make it worth every penny.
- Goof-Proof Application
Applying Ready Seal is so easy, it’s almost unfair.
No priming, no thinning, no back-brushing—just slap it on with a roller, brush, or sprayer.
I used a $10 sprayer and got a streak-free finish that looked like a pro did it.
The self-blending formula means no lap marks, even if you stop mid-project and pick up later.
I stained half my deck one day and finished the next, and you’d never know where I left off. It’s forgiving, which is a godsend for DIYers like me who aren’t exactly Picasso with a paintbrush.
- Deep Penetration for Lasting Protection
This stain doesn’t just sit on the surface—it sinks deep into the wood, creating a waterproof barrier that laughs in the face of rain and snow. The blend of oils, resins, and trans-oxide pigments works overtime to shield your deck from UV rays, preventing that ugly graying you see on untreated wood.
After applying it, I noticed water beading up and rolling off my deck like it was coated in wax. That kind of protection gives me peace of mind, especially living in a place with wild weather swings.
- Enhances Natural Wood Beauty
I’m a sucker for the natural look of wood, and Ready Seal delivers. Its semi-transparent finish lets the grain and texture shine through, giving my cedar deck a warm, golden glow.
Colors like Natural Light Oak and Pecan add just enough tint to enhance without hiding the wood’s character. It’s not like those opaque stains that make your deck look like it’s wearing a mask. If you love that rustic, homey vibe, Ready Seal’s your match.
- Versatile for All Outdoor Wood
Decks, fences, siding, furniture—you name it, Ready Seal can handle it. I’ve used it on my deck and a cedar fence, and both turned out gorgeous. It’s especially great for softwoods like cedar, where it brings out the natural beauty without overpowering it.
The versatility means you can buy one product for multiple projects, saving you cash and shelf space. Plus, it’s VOC-compliant, so you’re not choking on fumes or harming the environment.
- Cost-Effective and DIY-Friendly
At about $50 per gallon, Ready Seal is a steal compared to hiring a pro or buying pricier stains. One gallon covers 125–150 square feet, and I only needed two for my deck’s two coats. The DIY factor is huge—I saved over $1,000 doing it myself in just two hours.
The tools are cheap (sprayer, pads, gloves), and the process is so simple you don’t need to be a handyman. If you can mop a floor, you can stain a deck with Ready Seal.
The Not-So-Good Parts of Ready Seal
No product’s perfect, and Ready Seal has its quirks. Here’s the lowdown on what bugged me, so you know what to expect.
- Strong Odor During Application
Ready Seal’s oil-based formula has a potent smell that hits you like a truck.
When I was staining, I had to open every window nearby and wear a mask to keep from feeling woozy.
It’s not a dealbreaker if you’re working outdoors, but if you’re sensitive to smells, brace yourself.
The odor fades after a day or two, but those first few hours are rough.
I’d recommend staining on a breezy day or wearing protective gear if you’re sensitive.
- Longer Drying Time Than Expected
The can says it dries in 48–72 hours, but my deck took closer to four days to fully cure, especially in humid weather. I had to tiptoe around it to avoid tracking oily residue into the house.
One time, I got some on my shoes, and it left a faint stain on my carpet—oops. If you’re in a rush or live in a damp climate, plan for extra drying time and keep pets and kids off the deck until it’s set.
- Fades Faster Than Some Competitors
While Ready Seal looks amazing fresh, it doesn’t last as long as some heavy-duty stains. After about 18 months of full sun exposure, I noticed the color starting to fade, especially on the railings. By year four, my deck still looked decent but needed a recoat to restore that rich hue.
If your deck gets blasted by sun or heavy rain, expect to reapply every 1–2 years. It’s not a huge hassle, but it’s something to budget for.
- Tricky Over Certain Surfaces
I learned the hard way that Ready Seal doesn’t play nice with wood filler. I used it over some woodpecker damage on my porch posts, and the filler stayed unstained, looking patchy. It also struggles with super-smooth or dense woods, where it might not penetrate as well, leaving an oily residue.
If your deck has repairs or exotic wood, test a small area first to avoid surprises. A quick wipe with mineral spirits can fix excess oil, but it’s an extra step.
Tips For Keeping Your Ready Seal Deck Looking Fresh
Ready Seal makes maintenance a breeze compared to other stains, but you’ve got to stay on top of it. Here’s how I keep my deck looking sharp year after year.
- Prep Like a Pro Before Staining
Prep is everything with Ready Seal. Before you even crack open the can, pressure-wash your deck to remove dirt, mildew, and old stain. Let it dry completely—use a moisture meter to confirm it’s below 12% moisture.
I skipped this step once and ended up with uneven color because the wood was too wet. If you’re recoating, you don’t need to strip old Ready Seal; just clean and reapply. Protect nearby plants with drop cloths and tape off doors to avoid oil stains on siding.
- Apply Thin, Even Coats
Less is more with Ready Seal. I made the mistake of glopping it on too thick the first time, and it took forever to dry. Use a roller or sprayer for flat surfaces and a brush for railings, applying thin, even coats. Two coats are usually enough for great coverage.
Stir the can well to mix the pigments, and don’t worry about perfect lines—the self-blending formula smooths out mistakes. If you overapply, wipe off excess with a cloth and mineral spirits to avoid a glossy finish.
- Reapply Every 1–2 Years
To keep your deck vibrant, plan to recoat every 12–18 months, especially in harsh climates. I check my deck annually in spring, looking for fading or graying spots. If it’s starting to lose its sheen, I clean it with a mild deck cleaner and water, let it dry, and apply a single maintenance coat.
This keeps the color rich and the protection strong without needing a full strip-and-restain job. It’s quick, and one gallon usually does the trick for a touch-up.
- Protect Against Mildew and Mold
If you live in a humid area, mildew can creep in. I’ve noticed tiny black spots on my deck’s shaded areas after heavy rain. To prevent this, clean your deck annually with a deck cleaner containing mildew inhibitors.
After cleaning, apply a fresh coat of Ready Seal to seal out moisture. If you spot mold, scrub it with a bleach-water solution before recoating. Keeping your deck free of leaves and debris also helps air circulate and reduces moisture buildup.
- Store and Dispose Properly
Ready Seal’s oil-based, so handle leftovers with care. I store my extra cans in a cool, dry garage to keep them fresh for touch-ups. When disposing of rags or excess stain, follow local regulations—oil-based products can be hazardous if tossed carelessly.
I soak used rags in water and seal them in a metal container before tossing them to avoid fire risks. Check your city’s guidelines for proper disposal of any leftover product.
Comparing Ready Seal To Other Deck Stain Brands
When it comes to deck stains, Ready Seal is my go-to, but how does it stack up against other heavyweights like Sherwin-Williams SuperDeck, TWP Stains, DEFY Deck Stain, and Valspar Semi-Transparent Stain?
I’ve used or seen these brands in action, so let’s break it down head-to-head, focusing on what matters most: application, durability, appearance, and cost. Each comparison will give you the real scoop so you can decide what’s best for your deck.
- Ready Seal Vs. Sherwin-Williams SuperDeck
I’ll start with Sherwin-Williams SuperDeck, a water-based stain that’s a favorite for its eco-friendly vibe.
Applying SuperDeck was a bit of a chore compared to Ready Seal.
It requires back-brushing to avoid streaks, and I had to work fast to keep a wet edge—stressful for a DIYer like me.
Ready Seal, on the other hand, is a breeze; its self-blending formula means no lap marks, even if you take a break.
Durability-wise, SuperDeck held up well for about two years on a friend’s deck before fading, similar to Ready Seal’s 1–2 years in harsh sun.
Appearance is where Ready Seal shines—it enhances the wood grain beautifully, while SuperDeck’s finish felt a tad plasticky. Cost? SuperDeck runs about $60 per gallon, pricier than Ready Seal’s $50, and you might need more for coverage. For ease and aesthetics, I lean toward Ready Seal.
- Ready Seal Vs. TWP Stains
TWP Stains, specifically the 100 Series, is an oil-based stain contractors swear by.
I tried it on a fence, and its durability impressed me—it looked vibrant for nearly four years, outlasting Ready Seal’s 1–2 years in full sun.
But TWP’s application is pickier.
You need pristine prep (sanding, brightening), and it doesn’t blend as seamlessly as Ready Seal, so mistakes show. If you’re not meticulous, you’ll see lines. Ready Seal’s goof-proof formula let me stain my deck in two hours with zero stress.
Appearance-wise, both highlight wood grain, but TWP’s colors are slightly more opaque, which some might like for coverage. TWP costs about $55 per gallon but is harder to find (often online-only), while Ready Seal’s at every big-box store. If longevity is your priority, TWP wins; for simplicity, Ready Seal’s my pick.
- Ready Seal Vs. DEFY Deck Stain
DEFY Deck Stain, a water-based option, is a beast for UV protection thanks to its zinc oxide tech.
I tested it on a patio table, and after two years of brutal sun, the color barely budged—stronger than Ready Seal, which started fading on my deck after 18 months.
But DEFY’s application is less forgiving. It needs a wood brightener beforehand, and if you overapply, it gets tacky.
Ready Seal? Just clean, dry, and go—no fuss. DEFY’s finish is crisp but less natural than Ready Seal’s warm, grain-enhancing glow.
Price-wise, DEFY’s steep at $65 per gallon, and coverage is similar to Ready Seal’s 125–150 square feet. Cleanup is easier with DEFY (soap and water vs. mineral spirits), but Ready Seal’s ease of use and lower cost make it more approachable for beginners like you and me.
- Ready Seal Vs. Valspar Semi-Transparent Stain
Valspar Semi-Transparent Stain, another water-based contender, is budget-friendly and widely available.
I used it on a small deck years ago, and while it was easy to clean up, the application felt clunky.
It dried fast, leaving lap marks if I wasn’t quick, unlike Ready Seal’s forgiving, blendable formula.
Durability was a letdown—Valspar started peeling after a year of rain and sun, while Ready Seal’s deep penetration prevents flaking.
Appearance-wise, Valspar’s colors are bold but can obscure wood grain more than Ready Seal’s subtle, natural finish.
At $40 per gallon, Valspar’s cheaper, but you get what you pay for—Ready Seal’s $50 price tag delivers better protection and a classier look. For long-term value, Ready Seal’s the clear winner.
Why Ready Seal Stands Out?
Each brand has strengths, but Ready Seal’s balance of simplicity, affordability, and beauty keeps me coming back. Sherwin-Williams SuperDeck and Valspar are solid for water-based fans but lack Ready Seal’s ease and natural finish.
TWP and DEFY offer superior longevity, but their finicky application and higher costs can deter DIYers. If you’re like me and want a stain that’s easy to apply, looks stunning, and won’t break the bank, Ready Seal’s tough to beat. It’s not perfect—you’ll recoat every couple of years—but the results are worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Absolutely, Ready Seal is a fantastic choice for decks, especially if you value ease and aesthetics. Its stain-and-sealer combo protects against water and UV damage while letting the wood’s grain shine. I’ve used it on my cedar deck with great results—easy to apply and looks stunning. However, it may need recoating every 1–2 years in harsh conditions, so it’s best for those okay with regular maintenance.
Ready Seal typically lasts 1–2 years on a deck, depending on weather and sun exposure. My deck, in full sun, started fading after 18 months but still looked decent at year four with minor graying. Regular maintenance coats every 12–18 months keep it vibrant. In shaded or milder climates, you might stretch it to 2–3 years.
Ready Seal gets my vote over Behr for most decks. It’s easier to apply (no back-brushing needed), penetrates deeper, and doesn’t peel like Behr can. My neighbor’s Behr deck started flaking after a year, while my Ready Seal deck just faded gracefully. Behr’s water-based formula is easier to clean up, but Ready Seal’s natural finish and DIY-friendliness win out.
It depends on your priorities. Cabot lasts longer—up to 3 years in my experience—and offers strong protection but is harder to apply and can obscure wood grain. Ready Seal is a breeze to use, blends flawlessly, and keeps the wood’s natural look but needs more frequent recoating. For ease and aesthetics, I prefer Ready Seal; for longevity, Cabot’s the pick.
Why Ready Seal Is Worth Your Time and Money?
Ready Seal deck stain is my ride-or-die for outdoor wood projects, and I’m confident it’ll win you over too. Its easy application, deep protection, and ability to showcase wood’s natural beauty make it a no-brainer for decks, fences, and more.
Sure, it needs a touch-up every couple of years, but the stunning results and DIY savings are worth it. Grab a can, transform your deck, and enjoy the compliments—you won’t regret it!