Top Fence Sealers: Which One Truly Protects Your Wood?

There are so many sealers, a real crapshoot: water-based formulas versus oil-based solutions. All of them promise to breathe new life into wooden fences. Not all sealers are created the same. Some of them can protect the wood from one thing it needs protection from—moisture—while others will give protection against UV damage or mold and mildew. One will help slice through some of that confusion, pointing out key differences to help you pinpoint the perfect product for your fencing needs. From improving your backyard’s privacy to improving the curb appeal of your property—right down to knowing what sets a fence sealer apart.

What Is a Fence Sealer?

A good wood sealer should seal the moisture out and prevent mildew and rotting of wood. The UV rays can cause fade or weakening of the wood; a good sealant will help retain the natural beauty of the wood. This barrier protects the wood to the maximum by significantly increasing the life of the fence.

Types of Fence Sealers

There are essentially two types of fence sealers: one water-based and the other oil-based. The former dry fast and clean up easily, hence are eco-friendly. But they may not penetrate as deep into the wood as oil-based sealers. Oil-based sealers have the added advantage of deeper penetration into the wood to provide longer protection. And concerning opacity, there are semi-transparent and semi-solid stains. Semi-transparent stains like Storm System and Olympic fence stains allow more of the wood’s natural grain to show through, while semi-solid options like Defy fence stain offer more pigment and thus more protection.

Benefits of Using Sealers

Using a quality fence sealer can prevent your wood from turning gray due to sun exposure. This means less time and money spent on maintenance and repairs. Furthermore, sealers improve the fence’s aesthetic appeal, making it look well-maintained and vibrant for years to come.

Best Rated Exterior Wood Sealers

Getting a quality wood sealer right for your outdoor wooden structures at your home can be quite advantageous. Some good wood sealers enhance the look of the wood, are natural, and offer advanced protection against the natural elements of decay, rot, and damage caused by UV lights; therefore, increasing its lifespan.

A. Top Water-Based Sealers

The ease of application and fast drying time have made the water-based sealers very famous. DEFY Extreme and Thompson’s WaterSeal dominated this category because of their excellent performance on all exterior wood surfaces, including fences and decks. Such products correspond not only to fast drying but also to the environment. They have low levels of volatile organic compounds and hence relatively safe for the user and the environment.

B. Top Oil-Based Sealers

Those who are looking for something a bit more heavy-duty will like oil-based sealers. Ready Seal is recommended highly by pros like us at Big Easy Fence because it is of higher quality and much harder. It is known to repel water as early as after its initial application so that the rain doesn’t wash away the protective layer. Another upside of Ready Seal is that it’s easy to reapply.

C. Eco-Friendly Sealer Options

The sealers today are more eco-friendly. Products like Eco Advance and Seal-Once have received high recommendations due to their low VOCs and biodegradable formulas. These non-toxic sealers do a great job of protecting wood surfaces and are very environmentally friendly.

How to Choose the Best Fence Sealer

To pick the top fence sealer, focus on key factors for long-lasting protection. This way, you’ll find the best one to keep your fence looking great for years. We can assist you with this concern.

Consider Wood Type

Different types of wood require specific sealers for optimal protection. Softwoods like pine absorb oil-based sealers well, offering deep penetration and long-lasting protection. Hardwoods, such as cedar, have a natural resistance to decay and can be sealed with either oil or water-based products. Choosing the right sealer for your wood type ensures enhanced durability and appearance.

Climate and Weather Factors

The climate plays a significant role in selecting a fence sealer. In hot, dry areas, wood is prone to cracking and splitting, necessitating sealers that offer flexibility and moisture retention. Conversely, in humid or rainy regions, a sealer with strong water resistance is essential to prevent mold and mildew growth. For fences exposed to prolonged sunlight, a product with UV blockers is crucial to prevent fading and maintain the wood’s natural color.

Longevity and Durability

The lifespan of a quality fence stain product like Ready Seal extends to about 5-6 years on fences. However, decks might need reapplication every few years due to heavier foot traffic. No sealer lasts forever; thus, regular maintenance is vital for prolonged wood protection.

Ease of Application

Ready Seal stands out for its ease of application. It can be applied using an airless or pump-up sprayer without the need for back brushing, making it a convenient option for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. For reapplication, a simple surface cleaning suffices, streamlining the maintenance process.

Application Tips for Fence Sealers

To ensure your fence remains protected and looks great for years, it’s crucial to apply fence sealers correctly. These application tips will help safeguard your fence against weather damage, significantly extending its life and enhancing its appearance.

• Preparing Your Fence

Before applying any sealer, clean the fence thoroughly to remove all dirt and mildew. This step ensures the sealer adheres properly and extends its durability. Once cleaned, let the wood dry completely. This might take a few days, but it’s crucial for effective application. Sand any rough spots to create a smooth surface for an even application of products like Krylon or Cabot fence stain.

• Tools You Will Need

For applying fence sealer, consider using an airless sprayer or pump-up sprayer. These tools help distribute the sealer evenly across large areas quickly. For touch-ups or detailed areas, brushes or rollers are more suitable. Ensure you have cleaning supplies ready, such as a pressure washer or scrub brush, to prepare the surface before sealing.

• Step-by-Step Application Guide

Start with a clean and prepared fence. An airless sprayer will also be effective in covering large areas quickly, and brushes and rollers add precision to the detailed spaces. Observe the manufacturer’s instructions on drying times to get the best results.

• Maintenance Tips

Inspect your fence annually for any signs of wear or damage. This will help in the look of it. Clean up your fence regularly to avoid the accumulation of dirt and mildew so as not to affect the quality of the wood. Re-apply sealer as often as necessary, depending upon weather conditions and sun exposure, to maintain protection and appearance.

Now, armed with this knowledge, it is time to act. Pick the right fence sealer, apply it appropriately, and enjoy a long-lasting beautiful-looking fence. Your home deserves no less. Get started right away and notice a difference with a high-quality fence sealer. To get better results for your small fence projects or big projects contacting us at Big Easy Fence is best.