Welcome to the dazzling world of cedar finishes! You’ve got the perfect cedar wood, but now it’s time to finish it. Fear not, for our team of wood-loving adventurers has gone on a quest to find the ultimate finish for your beloved cedar. We’ve scoured customer reviews, consulted with woodworking wizards, and tested finishes with the precision of a master craftsman (or at least, we tried).
So, are you ready to give your cedar wood the grand finale it deserves? Look no further than our top cedar finish recommendations. These finishes will not only enhance the natural allure of your cedar but also make it the envy of every other piece of lumber in your home. It’s time to transform your cedar into the pièce de résistance of your living space!
Table of Contents
COMPARISON CHART
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
  |
1. Minwax Helmsman Indoor/Outdoor Spar Urethane
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
2. Varathane 200061H Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
3. Thompsons Waterseal 21802 VOC Wood Protector
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
4. Hope’s Pure Tung Oil
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
5. Cabot Australian Timber Oil
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
1. Minwax Helmsman Indoor/Outdoor Spar Urethane
Specification
- Brand: Minwax
- Size: Available in quart and gallon containers
- Color: Weathered Oak
- Drying Time: Approximately 24 hours, depending on environmental conditions
- Application: Suitable for interior and exterior wood surfaces, such as doors, windows, trim, and outdoor furniture
- Material: Oil-based
Features
- Indoor/Outdoor Compatibility
- UV Protection
- Water Resistance
- Flexible Finish
- Available in Different Sheens
When it comes to finding the perfect wood finish for both indoor and outdoor projects, the Minwax Helmsman Indoor/Outdoor Spar Urethane stands out as our top choice. This versatile and high-quality product has earned accolades for its durability, ease of use, and impressive protective features, making it an ideal choice for woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts alike.
WHAT WE LIKE
The Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane can be used both indoors and outdoors, making it convenient for a variety of projects. It has UV blockers to protect against sunlight damage, is water-resistant to prevent moisture damage, and has a flexible finish to prevent cracking and peeling.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
Although the Minwax Helmsman Indoor/Outdoor Spar Urethane has several advantages, it’s crucial to mention that the drying time can be quite lengthy, which may not be suitable for individuals with strict project deadlines. Furthermore, some users may perceive the odor during the application as intense and unpleasant.
PROS
- Versatile for use on both interior and exterior wood surfaces
- UV protection against sunlight exposure
- Excellent water resistance for long-lasting protection
- Flexible finish to prevent cracking and peeling
- Available in different sheens for desired shine
CONS
- Relatively long drying time
- Strong odor during application
2. Varathane 200061H Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane – Best Clear Finish
Specification
- Brand: Varathane
- Model: 200061H
- Volume: 1 quart (946 ml)
- Coverage: Approximately 125 square feet per quart
- Dry Time: 2 hours between coats, 24 hours for light use, 3 days for full cure
- Size: Quart
- Coating Description: Oil-based
Features
- Water-based formula
- Crystal clear finish
- Superior durability
- Self-leveling
- Low odor
- One-coat coverage
- Available in gloss, semi-gloss, and satin sheens
Varathane Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane is a top-notch clear finish that provides excellent protection and durability for your wood projects. This product is designed to give you professional results in the comfort of your own home, making it perfect for DIY enthusiasts and professional woodworkers alike.
WHAT WE LIKE
This wood finish is great for beginners because it dries fast, cleans up easily, and has a water-based formula. It enhances the natural beauty of the wood with a crystal clear finish that won’t make it look yellow. Plus, it provides long-term protection and is highly durable.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
There have been reports from users that if the finish is not applied properly, it may bubble. It is important to note that this product may need more coats than oil-based finishes to provide the best protection.
PROS
- Fast-drying and easy to clean up
- Crystal clear finish that doesn’t yellow over time
- Durable and long-lasting protection
- Self-leveling for smooth application
- Low odor and safe for indoor use
CONS
- It can be prone to bubbling if not applied carefully
- It may require more coats than oil-based finishes for the best results.
3. Thompsons Waterseal 21802 VOC Wood Protector – Best for Outdoor
Specification
- Brand: Thompson Waterseal
- Model: 21802
- Volume: 1 gallon (3.78 liters)
- Coverage: Approximately 150-400 square feet per gallon, depending on wood type and porosity
- Dry Time: 24 hours for light use, 48 hours for heavy use
Features
- Advanced protection
- Easy application
- Penetrating formula
- VOC compliant
- Transparent finish
- Suitable for various wood types
Thompsons Waterseal VOC Wood Protector is a high-quality wood sealer specifically designed to protect and prolong the life of your outdoor wood projects. This product is perfect for those who want to ensure their decks, fences, and other exterior wooden surfaces remain in top condition despite exposure to harsh weather conditions.
WHAT WE LIKE
This protection formula is designed to protect outdoor wood projects from water damage, UV rays, and mildew. It can be easily applied using a brush, roller, or sprayer, making it suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. The formula penetrates deep into the wood, ensuring long-lasting protection. It is also environmentally friendly and compliant with VOC standards, making it safe to use.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
According to reports from some users, using the product may cause certain wood types to darken over time. The amount of coverage required depends on the type and porosity of the wood, so it may be necessary to use additional products for complete protection.
PROS
- Advanced protection against water damage, UV rays, and mildew
- Easy application with various methods
- The penetrating formula for long-lasting protection
- VOC-compliant and environmentally friendly
- Transparent finish that enhances the wood’s natural beauty
CONS
- May darken certain wood types over time
- Coverage can vary depending on wood type and porosity
4. Hope’s Pure Tung Oil – Best for Indoor Cedar Furniture
Specification
- Brand: Hope’s
- Model: Pure Tung Oil
- Volume: Available in 16 oz (473 ml) and 32 oz (946 ml) containers
- Coverage: Approximately 150-200 square feet per quart, depending on wood type and porosity
- Dry Time: 24-48 hours between coats, 7-10 days for full cure
Features
- 100% pure tung oil
- Penetrating formula
- Water-resistant
- Versatile application
- Enhances wood grain
- Easy to maintain
Hope’s Pure Tung Oil is a high-quality, natural wood finish that is perfect for indoor cedar furniture. This product is designed to enhance the beauty and durability of your wood projects while providing a safe and environmentally friendly option for your home.
WHAT WE LIKE
The tung oil formula is completely pure and safe for the environment. It penetrates well and provides lasting protection for your indoor cedar furniture. The formula is resistant to water, spills, and stains. Additionally, it highlights the natural beauty of cedar and other types of wood by enhancing their grain. Lastly, the finish is low maintenance and can be reapplied as needed over time.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
One major drawback of this finish is that it has a longer drying time between coats and for full curing in comparison to some other finishes. Some users may find the tung oil odor unpleasant during application.
PROS
- 100% pure tung oil for a natural, non-toxic finish
- Penetrating formula provides long-lasting protection
- Water-resistant properties guard against moisture and stains
- Enhances wood grain and natural beauty of cedar
- Easy to maintain over time
CONS
- Longer drying and curing times than some other finishes.
- Tung oil odor may be unpleasant during application
5. Cabot Australian Timber Oil – Best for Outdoor Cedar Furniture
Specification
- Brand: Cabot
- Color: Natural
- Model: Australian Timber Oil
- Surface Recommendation: wood
- Volume: Available in 1 quart (946 ml) and 1 gallon (3.78 liters) containers
- Coverage: Approximately 150-250 square feet per quart, depending on wood type and porosity
- Dry Time: 24-48 hours between coats, 7 days for full cure
Features
- Unique blend
- Penetrating formula
- Water-repellent
- UV-resistant
- Easy application
- Available in multiple colors
Cabot Australian Timber Oil is a premium wood finish specifically designed to protect and enhance the natural beauty of your outdoor cedar furniture. This product offers exceptional durability and resistance against harsh weather conditions, making it the perfect choice for maintaining the appearance and longevity of your exterior wooden surfaces.
WHAT WE LIKE
This product offers great protection for your outdoor cedar furniture due to its unique blend of oils. Its formula penetrates easily and ensures long-lasting protection against moisture, UV rays, and other elements. It also has water-repellent properties that prevent warping, cracking, and mildew growth. Applying it is simple using a brush, roller, or sprayer. Additionally, it comes in a range of translucent shades so you can customize the look of your cedar furniture.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
Compared to some other finishes, this product has a relatively long drying time between coats and full curing. Additionally, certain colors may be more challenging to apply evenly, as some users have reported.
PROS
- Unique blend of oils for superior protection
- Penetrating formula provides long-lasting protection.
- Water-repellent and UV-resistant properties
- Easy application with various methods
- Available in multiple colors to enhance cedar’s natural beauty
CONS
- Longer drying and curing times than some other finishes.
- Difficulty in achieving an even finish with certain colors
Conclusion
In conclusion, after reviewing various wood finishes, we highly recommend Minwax Helmsman Indoor/Outdoor Spar Urethane as the best choice for your wood projects. This versatile finish offers exceptional protection and durability for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Its advanced formula guards against water damage, UV rays, and temperature changes, ensuring the longevity and beauty of your wooden surfaces. With its ease of application and availability in multiple sheens, Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane is a reliable and effective solution for maintaining the appearance and durability of your wood projects, regardless of their location.
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.
