Greetings, timber titans and cedar connoisseurs! Prepare for a delightful jaunt as we unveil the magical potion: the Best Cedar Stain! In a world where cedar’s hypnotic aroma and legendary durability have us swooning, it’s time for a beauty makeover – courtesy of the top 5 fabulous cedar stains. Fear not, seekers of cedar splendor, for we’ve gallivanted through the whimsical realm of wood beautification, so you don’t have to.
Join our enchanting escapade as we reveal the top 5 sovereign cedar stains that’ll transform your cherished wood into a radiant, long-lasting, and jaw-dropping masterpiece! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the battle of the cedar stains, with our top picks leaving you laughing all the way to the lumber yard!
Table of Contents
COMPARISON CHART
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1. DEFY Extreme 1 Gallon Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain, Cedar Tone
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2. THOMPSONS WATERSEAL TH.042851-16 Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Stain
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3. Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences, & Siding – 1 Gallon
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4. Krylon K03602000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain
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5. Cabot 140.0017437.007 Semi-Solid Deck & Siding Low VOC Stain
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1. DEFY Extreme 1 Gallon Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain, Cedar Tone
Specification
- Brand: DEFY
- Size: Available in 1-gallon cans
- Coverage: Approximately 100-150 sq ft per gallon, depending on wood porosity
- Color: Cedar Tone
- Dry time: 2-4 hours for touch dry; fully dry in 24-48 hours
- Clean up: Soap and water
- Surface Recommendation: Decks, Fence, Siding
- Material: Water Based
Features
- Water-based, low VOC formulation for an environmentally friendly choice
- Semi-transparent finish to showcase the wood grain
- Nano-particle technology for enhanced UV protection
- High-performance, weather-resistant formula
DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain in Cedar Tone is a high-quality, top-performing stain that offers exceptional protection and enhancement for your cedar surfaces. This water-based, eco-friendly stain utilizes advanced technology to deliver superior durability, color retention, and resistance to the elements, making it our Editor’s Choice for cedar stains.
WHAT WE LIKE
This product is an eco-friendly, water-based formula that enhances the natural beauty of cedar wood. It uses advanced technology to provide superior UV protection, ensuring exceptional durability and resistance to the elements. The semi-transparent finish allows the wood grain to show through, and the low VOC formulation makes it an environmentally responsible choice.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
This product is more costly than other available options in the market. Additionally, achieving an even application of the stain could be challenging, and it might require multiple coats to achieve complete coverage.
PROS
- Environmentally friendly option with outstanding performance
- Retains color well over time
- Provides excellent protection against UV rays, water, and weathering
- Easy clean-up with soap and water
CONS
- Might need more than one coat for optimal coverage
- Coverage can be affected by wood porosity
2. THOMPSONS WATERSEAL TH.042851-16 Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Stain – Best Budget
Specification
- Brand: Thompsons
- Size: Available in 1-gallon cans
- Coverage: Approximately 150-250 sq ft per gallon
- Dry time: 24-48 hours, depending on weather conditions
- Clean up: Soap and water
- Color: Oranges
- Surface Recommendation: Decks, Furniture, Fence
- Material: Stain
Features
- Semi-transparent finish to highlight the wood grain
- Advanced waterproofing technology for superior protection
- UV-resistant formula to prevent fading
- Mildew and algae-resistant
THOMPSONS WATERSEAL Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Stain is an affordable yet effective solution for protecting and enhancing your cedar surfaces. This budget-friendly stain offers reliable waterproofing and UV protection while allowing the wood’s natural beauty to shine through, making it an ideal choice for those who want quality without breaking the bank.
WHAT WE LIKE
This product is affordable while maintaining high-quality standards. It also keeps the original look of cedar wood and provides superior defense against water damage and UV rays. It additionally prevents mildew and algae growth. We love that it is easy to apply and clean up with soap and water.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
The drawback of this is that it does not penetrate the wood as deeply as other stains. Also, it could require more than one coat for optimal coverage.
PROS
- Affordable choice with reliable performance
- Highlights the natural beauty of cedar
- Offers strong protection against the elements
- Easy clean-up with soap and water
CONS
- Might need more than one coat for the best results
- Drying time may be longer in humid conditions
3. Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences, & Siding – 1 Gallon – Best Water Based
Specification
- Brand: SaverSystems
- Size: Available in 1-gallon cans
- Coverage: Approximately 250-300 sq ft per gallon
- Dry time: Touch dry in 1 hour; fully dry in 24 hours
- Clean up: Soap and water
- Color: Cedar
- Brand: SaverSystems
- Surface Recommendation: Decks, Furniture, Fence
- Material: Wood, Stain
- Size: 1 Gallon
Features
- Water-based, low VOC formulation for an environmentally friendly choice
- Semi-transparent finish to showcase the wood grain
- Excellent color retention and durability
- Water-repellent, UV-resistant, and mildew-resistant
Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is a top-notch water-based stain designed to enhance and protect your cedar decks, fences, and sidings. This eco-friendly option offers excellent color retention and durability while allowing the natural wood grain to shine through, providing a stunning finish for your cedar projects.
WHAT WE LIKE
We’re glad that you like our eco-friendly formula, which uses water to bring out the natural beauty of cedar wood. Not only does it enhance the wood’s appearance, but it also offers great protection against water damage, UV rays, and mildew. Plus, it’s easy to clean with just soap and water, making maintenance a breeze.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
There were some complaints about inadequate coverage from certain customers. Please note that multiple coats may be required for optimal results. Also, it is not as deeply absorbed as oil-based stains.
PROS
- Environmentally friendly option
- Retains color well over time
- Offers superior protection against UV rays, water, and mildew
- Quick drying time and easy clean-up
CONS
- Might need more than one coat for optimal coverage
- Less penetrating compared to oil-based stains
4. Krylon K03602000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain – Best Semitransparent
Specification
- Brand: Krylon
- Size: Available in 12 oz. aerosol cans
- Coverage: Approximately 15-20 sq ft per can
- Dry time: Touch dry in 15 minutes; fully dry in 24 hours
- Clean up: Mineral spirits or paint thinner
- Color: Honey Gold
- Brand: Krylon
- Surface Recommendation: Wood
- Material: Wood, Stain
- Recommended Uses For Product: exterior
Features
- Semi-transparent finish for showcasing the wood grain
- Spray-on application for a smooth, even coat
- UV-resistant formula to prevent fading
- Water-repellent and mildew-resistant
Krylon Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is a premium, easy-to-use stain designed to highlight your cedar’s natural beauty while offering robust protection against the elements. This spray-on stain provides a unique and convenient application method, ensuring an even and smooth finish for your cedar decks, fences, and sidings.
WHAT WE LIKE
This product features an easy spray-on application method. It preserves the natural beauty of cedar wood and offers great protection from UV rays and water damage. We appreciate the quick drying time and the fact that it’s mildew-resistant. This will help keep your cedar surfaces looking great for a long time.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
The drawback of this stain is that it may not cover large surfaces with just one can. This could become an issue if the surface is large, as buying multiple cans can get quite costly.
PROS
- Convenient and easy-to-use spray-on application
- Preserves the natural appearance of cedar wood
- Offers strong protection against the elements
- Dries quickly for faster project completion
CONS
- Might need several cans for extensive cedar projects
- Requires adequate ventilation during application
5. Cabot 140.0017437.007 Semi-Solid Deck & Siding Low VOC Stain – Best for All-Around
Specification
- Brand: Cabot
- Surface Recommendation: Decks, Fence, Siding
- Material: Stain
- Size: Available in 1-gallon cans
- Color: Cordovan Brown
- Coverage: Approximately 250-350 sq ft per gallon
- Dry time: 24-48 hours, depending on weather conditions
- Clean up: Soap and water
Features
- Semi-solid finish with excellent color retention
- Low VOC formulation for an eco-friendly choice
- The deep-penetrating formula for long-lasting protection
- Water-repellent and mildew-resistant
- Uniquely formulated for superior durability
- Deep penetrating semi-solid finish for superior UV protection
- Scuff and fade resistant
- One coat application
Cabot’s Semi-Solid Deck & Siding Low VOC Stain is a versatile and eco-friendly option designed to enhance and protect your cedar decks, fences, and sidings. This semi-solid stain strikes the perfect balance between opacity and wood grain visibility, showcasing your cedar’s natural beauty while providing superior protection against the elements.
WHAT WE LIKE
This product is suitable for a range of cedar applications, providing both wood grain visibility and coverage. It is eco-friendly, has a low VOC formulation, and can withstand mildew and water damage. We love its long-lasting protection, easy clean-up with soap and water, and quick drying time. Additionally, it is great for achieving a uniform finish and can be used on both horizontal and vertical surfaces.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
Despite all the benefits, it may require multiple coats for the best results. Also, the drying time for this product can be longer than some other stains.
PROS
- Suitable for a wide range of cedar projects
- Environmentally friendly option
- Provides excellent protection against the elements
- Retains color well over time
CONS
- Might need more than one coat for the best results
- Longer drying time under certain weather conditions
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks – our exhilarating journey through the world of cedar stains has come to a triumphant close! As we tip our hats to the valiant contenders, one champion stands tall, ready to elevate your cherished cedar to new heights: the DEFY Extreme 1 Gallon Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain, Cedar Tone.
We highly recommend Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for staining your cedar decks, fences, and siding because it offers great performance, longevity, and aesthetic appeal. It is the perfect product to transform your outdoor spaces into stunning and long-lasting works of art.
I am a woodworker with over 21 years of experience crafting everything from furniture to ornamental pieces. I take pride in my ability to bring out the beauty of the wood I work with, creating unique and lasting objects. My passion for woodworking has been a life-long pursuit and I strive to push myself further and further with each new project. I am dedicated to the craft and take great satisfaction in the final product that I create.Read More.
