Wood Sealers and Waterproofing (103 items found)

With natural grain patterns and rich colors, wood is a beautiful material and an excellent choice for crafting everything from decks to furniture. Unfortunately, wood is vulnerable to the effects of Mother Nature and can fade, warp and rot when exposed to the elements. Applying wood treatments and wood sealers helps ensure that your project stands the test of time. Ace Hardware stocks a vast selection of water seal and wood finish products to suit your woodworking needs.

When Do You Need to Use a Wood Sealer?

A wood sealer provides much-needed protection for wood indoors and outdoors. Use a wood finish sealant to protect plain wood or apply it over a wood stain to protect the color and prevent bleeding.

Depending on your project, you may wish to purchase a specialty sealer. Options include floor sealers for hardwood floors and deck sealers for outdoor living spaces. Other wood waterproofing products are suitable for a wide range of projects.

Wood Treatment Usage Considerations

To choose the best wood preservative for your needs, think about how you'll use the space or item. For example, you'll need a stronger wood waterproofing sealer for a mailbox post that stays in place throughout the year than you’d need for a lounge chair that only stays outside for a few months during the summer. Likewise, an indoor coffee table that sees a lot of use might require a stronger wood waterproofing product than a night table in your guestroom.

UV exposure is also a consideration. Many outdoor wood sealers filter out or absorb the sun's energy to reduce the risk of fading. You may need UV-protective wood finishes for outdoor areas that receive lots of sunshine.

Select the Right Wood Preservative for Your Material

Just as concrete and driveway sealers are formulated especially for specific materials, some wood sealer products work best for specific types of wood. If the wood you need to water seal is a standard variety like cedar or pine, you can typically choose from a wide range of wood preservative products. On the other hand, exotic woods like teak and ipe usually require a specially formulated wood protector due to their higher density.

Wood Preservative vs. Wood Protector

Some products may be labeled as both "protectors" and "preservatives." If so, check the ingredients and registration to understand its primary function. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between wood protectors and wood preservatives:

• Wood Protector: Used for finished wood surfaces that you want to keep looking their best. They add mild protection against the elements.
• Wood Preservative: Used for unfinished wood that will be exposed to the elements or have direct contact with the ground.

Find the Right Wood Finishes for Your Aesthetic

One final thing to consider when comparing wood sealer options is color. Many wood preservative products are transparent or semi-transparent, adding little to no color. Others combine the benefits of a wood preservative plus a stain to enhance the wood’s color while also creating a water seal to lower the likelihood of damage due to moisture.

Shop Wood Waterproofer and More at Ace Hardware

With wood waterproofing products from brands like Wolman and Thompson’s Waterseal, Ace makes it easy to find the right supplies for your project. Order online or shop wood sealer options near you at your local Ace Hardware, where our knowledgeable team members can advise you on other equipment and tools you'll need for your project.

We carry all the essentials for wood sealer application, from paint brushes, roller covers, roller frames, and painting accessories. We’re ready to assist as you stock up on the right supplies for the job at hand.