Best Finish For Outdoor Cedar Furniture (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best finish for outdoor cedar furniture, there are a few factors to consider before making your purchase. Cedar wood is a popular choice for outdoor furniture because of its natural resistance to decay, rot, and insect damage. However, exposure to the elements can cause the wood to fade and gray over time. A good finish can help protect the wood and keep it looking new for years to come.
Before choosing a finish for your outdoor cedar furniture, consider the type of environment it will be exposed to. If your furniture will be exposed to a lot of moisture, such as near a pool or in an area with high humidity, a waterproof finish may be necessary. UV protection is also important if your furniture will be exposed to direct sunlight, as this can cause the wood to fade and crack over time.
When looking for the best finish for outdoor cedar furniture, ask yourself these questions: What level of protection do I need? Do I want a clear or colored finish? How often am I willing to reapply the finish? By answering these questions, you'll be better equipped to choose a finish that meets your needs and will help to prolong the life of your outdoor cedar furniture.
10 Best Finish For Outdoor Cedar Furniture
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This product is ideal for protecting outdoor wood surfaces from water damage and UV rays, such as siding, fences, and decks.
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Ideal for exterior wood surfaces such as fences, decks, and siding.
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Ideal for protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of any woodworking project, hardwood floors, and outdoor furniture.
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This product is ideal for staining and protecting exterior surfaces, such as fences, decks, and siding.
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Ideal for wood finishing and sealing, suitable for indoor and outdoor use, popular among craftsmen, provides waterproof protection.
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Ideal for sealing and staining exterior wood such as decks, fences, siding, and outdoor furniture, in a barn red color.
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Ideal for darkening and stabilizing wood with a food safe, non-toxic finish that leaves a lustrous sheen in one coat.
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Ideal for staining decks, fences, and siding with a premium semi-transparent finish in a light walnut color.
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It is ideal for protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of exterior wood surfaces such as decks, fences, and outdoor furniture.
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10
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Ideal for protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of western red cedar wood.
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1. Sienna Wood Shield – Ultimate Outdoor Protection
Storm Protector is an exceptional semi-transparent stain and sealer that not only enhances the natural beauty of wood grains but also provides efficient protection against external elements. This product is perfect for those who want to maintain the aesthetic appeal of their exterior wood surfaces while ensuring their longevity.
Storm Protector offers superior waterproofing and UV protection, which helps prevent color fading caused by harsh weather conditions. Its advanced formula is designed to work effectively on a variety of wood substrates, including redwood, cedar, pine, douglas fir, spruce, cypress, mahogany, and pressure-treated lumber.
Applying Storm Protector is a hassle-free process, thanks to its ready-to-use formula. The product comes in a 1-gallon container and can be quickly mixed and applied to a prepared wood surface with a brush, roller, or sprayer.
Storm Protector offers a range of finishes, from clear finishes that preserve the natural beauty of wood to more dramatic, solid color stains that provide maximum protection against external elements. With Storm Stain, you can choose the look you want while ensuring your wood surfaces stay protected.
2. Ready Seal Exterior Stain And Sealer-1 Gallon Can (Natural Cedar 112)
Looking for a wood stain and sealer in one? Look no further than Ready Seal! This innovative product offers a unique blend of wood stain and sealer, providing protection against peeling, cracking, and chipping. With its Goof Proof application process, even the most inexperienced DIYer can achieve professional-looking results.
Ready Seal is specifically designed for exterior use, making it the perfect choice for decks, fences, and other outdoor structures. With an impressive coverage rate of approximately 125-150 square feet per gallon, you can tackle even the largest projects with ease.
So why choose Ready Seal? Unlike traditional wood stains and sealers, this product is easy to apply and dries quickly, allowing you to enjoy your newly treated wood in no time. Plus, its advanced formula penetrates deep into the wood, providing long-lasting protection against the elements.
Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or a first-time user, Ready Seal is the perfect choice for all your outdoor wood treatment needs. So why wait? Try it today and experience the difference for yourself!
3. Tung Oil: Versatile Finish For Woodworking
Introducing the Sealer for Hardwood Floors that is not only perfect for cabinets, doors, and interior cabin walls, but also serves as an excellent outdoor furniture conditioner. This versatile product is designed to protect and enhance the natural beauty of your wooden surfaces, giving them a long-lasting shine.
What sets this sealer apart is its eco-friendliness – it is free of any VOCs, making it non-toxic and safe to use indoors. The FDA food-safe ingredients used in its formulation make it ideal for application on surfaces that come in contact with food.
This high-quality sealer is easy to apply and dries quickly, providing a durable finish that resists stains, scratches, and moisture. Its ability to penetrate deep into the wood ensures that your hardwood floors and furniture are well-protected from damage caused by daily wear and tear.
Not only does this sealer provide excellent protection, but it also enhances the natural beauty of your wood, bringing out its rich, warm tones. Its clear finish will not change the color of your wood, ensuring that it retains its original appearance.
4. Vermont Natural Coatings Polywhey Exterior Penetrating Stain – Lakeside Cedar – Quart
The PolyWhey Exterior Penetrating Stain is an exceptional product designed to provide rich color and waterproof protection to wooden surfaces. With its innovative formula, this stain can penetrate deep into the wood to create a barrier that shields against moisture and harmful UV rays, preventing rot and decay.
One of the unique features of this product is its bio-based composition. By utilizing whey protein as a co-binder, PolyWhey has created a renewable resource that delivers safe and durable paints, stains, and finishes. This makes it a perfect choice for environmentally conscious customers who want to use products that are both effective and sustainable.
The PolyWhey Exterior Penetrating Stain is incredibly easy to apply and clean up, making it an ideal choice for a variety of outdoor wood surfaces. It boasts a quick dry time of just 48 hours, allowing users to complete their projects quickly and efficiently. Additionally, it can be easily cleaned up with soap and water, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals.
This stain is a one-step solution that acts as both a sealer and topcoat, providing a durable and long-lasting finish. It can be used on a variety of wooden surfaces, including siding, fences, and furniture. The PolyWhey Exterior Penetrating Stain with PolyWhey technology is the perfect solution for customers who want to protect their outdoor wood surfaces while also using a safe and sustainable product.
5. Waterproof Tung Oil For Furniture & Countertops
The Tung Oil from this brand is a natural and environmentally friendly product that is made from the nut of the tung tree in East Asia. Crafted specifically for use in woodworking, this oil provides protection and a lustrous finish to all types of wood.
One of the most notable benefits of this Tung Oil is that it can be used as a waterproof wood sealer. When applied to wood, it forms a waterproof finish that provides a protective barrier against moisture and other elements. This makes it a great choice for use on outdoor furniture and wooden decks.
In addition to being a great waterproof sealer, this Tung Oil can be used on almost any surface that will allow oil to penetrate. This makes it incredibly versatile and perfect for finishing countertops, cutting boards, unfinished wood, wooden furniture, wood floors, decks, concrete, bricks, stones, and much more.
Using this Tung Oil is incredibly easy. Simply wipe it on with a soft towel and allow it to cure at room temperature. Repeat the process 2-3 times for a perfect wood finishing.
The brand stands behind the quality of their product and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, they will provide a full refund.
6. Defy Wood Stain Sealer – Barn Red, 1 Gal.
The DEFY Solid Stain is an excellent choice for those looking for an opaque finish on their old or new decks. It works great on decks with a mix of old and new boards, hiding the grain and creating a uniform appearance.
This solid stain also boasts maximum UV resistance, thanks to the zinc nano-particles in its formula. It effectively blocks harmful UV rays that cause fading, graying, and color loss on wood decks, fences, and siding. Think of it as sunscreen for your wood!
In terms of longevity, the DEFY Solid Stain is made with durable acrylic resins, making it the longest lasting DEFY stain available. Unlike oil-based deck stains, this sealer will last for years, providing long-lasting color and protection for your deck.
Another great feature of this solid deck stain is its quick application time. It can be applied to wood as soon as it becomes visibly dry, allowing for a one-day deck staining project.
Clean-up is also a breeze with this water-based solid deck stain. It's easy to use and can be cleaned up with soap and water, eliminating the need for messy solvents or paint thinner.
7. Odie's Wood Stabilizer: Beautiful, Non-Toxic Sheen.
The Odie's Dark is a top-quality wood finish that is highly recommended for interior use. It is a versatile product that can be used on a variety of wood items such as doors, floors, fine furniture, toys, and even bowls. It is suitable for all species of wood, whether exotic or domestic.
This product is formulated to work on even the oiliest of woods. It is an easy-to-use, food-safe, and non-toxic wood finish and stabilizer. It is a solvent-free product that does not contain driers or toxic chemicals. This makes it safe for families, kids, and pets.
Odie's Dark contains natural UV inhibitors that act as sunscreen for your wood. It is a revolutionary product that outperforms and outcovers the competition. This wood finish is truly economical, and a little goes a long way. It is advised to use it sparingly. On most domestic woods, Odie's Dark averages 21 sq. ft./oz. This means that a 9 oz jar of Odie's Dark will cover more square footage than one gallon of other leading brand finishes. However, coverage will vary depending on the wood's density and porosity.
All Odie's Dark finishes are hand-made in small batches in the USA to ensure quality. Most surfaces can be used within 24 hours, and they can be exposed to liquids within 3-5 days.
8. #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain For Decks, Fences, & Siding – 1 Gallon (Light Walnut)
#1 Deck Stain and Sealer is an essential product for anyone looking to protect their outdoor wood surfaces from the elements. This product is designed to protect against color fade and prevent graying, making it perfect for pressure treated pine, cedar, fir, redwood, and most other softwoods. While hardwoods will require more frequent maintenance coats, #1 Deck Stain and Sealer will work to keep them looking beautiful and new for years to come.
What sets #1 Deck Stain and Sealer apart from other products on the market is that it is both a deck stain and deck sealant in one. This dual-purpose stain and sealer not only adds color to your wood but also seals it, preventing damage caused by water penetration. The result is a beautiful, long-lasting finish that will keep your deck looking great for years.
One of the most significant benefits of using #1 Deck Stain and Sealer is that it allows the wood grain to show through. This product is available in five beautiful, semi-transparent deck stain colors that dry to flat, natural-looking finishes that will enhance the beauty of your exterior wood. Whether you have a new deck or an older one that needs a little TLC, #1 Deck Stain and Sealer will help you achieve the perfect look.
When it comes to protecting the environment, #1 Deck Stain and Sealer is a better choice for our planet. With less than 50 g/L VOC content, this product has a lower environmental impact than many other products on the market. Clean up is super easy, too – just use soap and water.
Another benefit of #1 Deck Stain and Sealer is that it works on damp wood, minimizing the wait time between cleaning and staining. Once your wood deck is visibly dry, it's ready to stain. This means you can get your deck protected and looking great in less time than with other products.
9. General Finishes Outdoor Oil, 1 Gallon
The Plastic Gallon Jug outdoor oil is a high-quality solution for all outdoor wood projects. Due to a metal can shortage, the product may come in a plastic jug instead of a metal container. This outdoor oil contains UV stabilizers and twice the oil contained in competing brands, making it a reliable option for wood furniture and other outdoor wood projects.
The Outdoor Oil is compatible with various types of wood, including pressure-treated wood, and can be used by itself or over any stain. However, it is essential to note that Outdoor Oil may not adhere to extremely oily exotic woods. Therefore, it is recommended to test on a small area before applying it to the entire project.
The product's parameters include a gallon of outdoor oil, which is enough to cover a considerable surface area. The product's specifications include its ability to protect wood from the sun's harmful UV rays, which can cause fading and discoloration over time. The outdoor oil's high oil content allows it to penetrate deep into the wood, providing long-lasting protection against water damage and decay.
10. Penofin Red Label 5 Gallon (Western Red Cedar)
Introducing a highly effective wood stain that provides superior protection against fading and moisture damage – the product you can trust. This wood stain contains transoxide pigments that offer up to 90% ultraviolet protection, ensuring that your wood remains vibrant and beautiful for longer periods. The advanced formula is designed to penetrate deep into the wood, creating a powerful barrier against moisture and water damage.
In addition to the transoxide pigments, this wood stain also contains Brazilian Rosewood Oil, which further enhances the protection against moisture. This oil penetrates deep into the wood, nourishing and conditioning it from within, which helps to prevent cracking, splitting, and warping.
This wood stain is available in ten transparent tones, allowing you to choose the perfect shade that best suits your wood. Whether you're looking to enhance the natural wood grain or add a hint of color to your project, this product has got you covered.
It's worth noting that due to state regulations, this wood stain cannot be shipped to AK, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, HI, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VA, or VT. However, if you reside in any other state, you can enjoy all the benefits this product has to offer.
Lastly, this wood stain comes with extra mildew protection, which helps to prevent the growth of mildew and mold on your wood. This means that your wood will remain cleaner for longer, which ultimately translates to less time and effort spent cleaning and maintaining it.
Best Finish For Outdoor Cedar Furniture FAQs
Are there any eco-friendly finish options for outdoor cedar furniture?
Yes, there are eco-friendly finish options available for outdoor cedar furniture. One option is to use natural oils, such as linseed oil or tung oil, which are derived from plants and are biodegradable. These oils penetrate the wood and provide protection against water and UV rays, while also enhancing the natural beauty of the wood. Another option is to use a water-based sealant, which is non-toxic and easy to apply. Water-based sealants are also resistant to fading and cracking, making them ideal for outdoor use. Additionally, using reclaimed or recycled wood for the furniture itself is also a sustainable and eco-friendly choice. When shopping for outdoor cedar furniture, look for products that are labeled as eco-friendly or sustainable, and ask the manufacturer about the materials and finishes used to ensure they align with your values.
Can I use a marine-grade finish on outdoor cedar furniture?
Yes, you can use a marine-grade finish on outdoor cedar furniture. In fact, marine-grade finishes are some of the most durable and long-lasting finishes available, and they are designed specifically for use in harsh marine environments. Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor furniture because it is naturally resistant to rot and decay, but it can still benefit from the added protection of a marine-grade finish.
Marine-grade finishes are typically made from high-quality resins and oils that are designed to withstand exposure to moisture, sunlight, and saltwater. They create a hard, protective layer over the wood that helps to prevent damage from UV rays, water, and other environmental factors. Some marine-grade finishes are also designed to resist mold and mildew, which can be a problem in humid environments.
When using a marine-grade finish on cedar furniture, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Make sure the wood is clean and dry before applying the finish, and apply it in thin, even coats. You may also need to sand the wood between coats to ensure good adhesion. With proper application and maintenance, a marine-grade finish can help to extend the life of your cedar furniture and keep it looking great for years to come.
Can I use a stain and a clear coat finish on cedar furniture?
Yes, you can use a stain and a clear coat finish on cedar furniture. Cedar is a popular wood choice for outdoor furniture because it is naturally resistant to decay and insects. However, it is important to protect cedar furniture from the elements to ensure its longevity and maintain its appearance.
Applying a stain to cedar furniture can enhance its natural beauty and provide additional protection against weathering. Once the stain has dried, it is recommended to apply a clear coat finish to further protect the wood from moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors. The clear coat finish can also give the furniture a glossy or matte appearance, depending on your preference.
It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying the stain and clear coat finish, and to ensure that the cedar furniture is clean and dry before application. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and reapplying the clear coat finish every few years, can help prolong the life of your cedar furniture.
How often should I reapply finish to my outdoor cedar furniture?
The frequency with which you should reapply finish to your outdoor cedar furniture will depend on various factors such as the type of finish used, the quality of the finish, the climate in your area, and how frequently the furniture is exposed to the elements.
In general, it is recommended that you reapply finish to your outdoor cedar furniture every 2-3 years. However, if the furniture is exposed to harsh weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold, heavy rainfall or snow, or direct sunlight for extended periods, you may need to apply finish more frequently.
To determine whether it is time to reapply finish, you can perform a simple water test. Sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface of the furniture. If the water beads up, the finish is still effective. However, if the water soaks into the wood, it is time to reapply finish.
It is important to note that regular cleaning and maintenance can help prolong the life of the finish and the furniture itself. So, make sure to clean the furniture regularly and keep it covered when not in use.
What is the best finish for outdoor cedar furniture?
When it comes to finishing outdoor cedar furniture, the best option is to use a protective finish that can withstand harsh weather conditions and protect the natural beauty of the wood. There are several finishes to choose from, including oil-based penetrating stains, water-based stains, and clear sealers.
Oil-based penetrating stains are a popular choice for outdoor cedar furniture as they deeply penetrate the wood, providing long-lasting protection against water, mildew, and UV damage. They are available in a wide range of colors and are easy to apply, making them a great option for DIY projects.
Water-based stains are another excellent option for outdoor cedar furniture, as they provide a durable finish that resists fading, cracking, and peeling. They are also environmentally friendly and easy to clean up with soap and water.
Clear sealers are a simple and effective way to protect outdoor cedar furniture from the elements without altering the natural color of the wood. They provide a clear, protective barrier that repels water and prevents mildew growth.
Ultimately, the best finish for your outdoor cedar furniture will depend on your personal preference and the specific needs of your project.
What is the difference between oil-based and water-based finishes for cedar furniture?
Oil-based finishes and water-based finishes are two different types of coatings used to protect cedar furniture. Oil-based finishes are made from natural oils, such as linseed oil or tung oil, mixed with solvents and resins. They are known for their durability and water-resistance, making them an excellent choice for outdoor furniture. Oil-based finishes penetrate the wood grain and create a rich, warm color that enhances the natural beauty of cedar.
Water-based finishes, on the other hand, are made from synthetic resins and water. They have a lower VOC content than oil-based finishes, making them a more environmentally friendly option. They also dry faster and have a lower odor. However, water-based finishes are less durable than oil-based finishes and may not provide the same level of protection against moisture.
In summary, the main difference between oil-based and water-based finishes for cedar furniture is durability and water-resistance. Oil-based finishes are more durable and water-resistant, while water-based finishes are more environmentally friendly and have a lower odor. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the intended use of the furniture.
What type of finish is best for preserving the natural color of cedar furniture?
When it comes to preserving the natural color of cedar furniture, there are a few different finish options to consider. The best type of finish will depend on your personal preference and the specific needs of your cedar furniture.
One option is to use a clear sealant or polyurethane finish. This type of finish will provide a protective layer while allowing the natural color and grain of the cedar to show through. Another option is to use a penetrating oil, such as tung oil or linseed oil. These oils will soak into the wood and enhance the natural color, while also providing some protection against moisture and other environmental factors.
It’s important to note that cedar is naturally resistant to decay and insect damage, so a heavy-duty finish may not be necessary. However, if you plan to place your cedar furniture in an area that is exposed to the elements, such as a porch or patio, a more durable finish may be recommended.
Ultimately, the best finish for preserving the natural color of cedar furniture will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It’s always a good idea to test any finish on a small, inconspicuous area of your furniture before applying it to the entire piece.
What type of finish provides the most protection against weathering on cedar furniture?
Cedar furniture is beautiful and durable, but it is not immune to weathering. To protect cedar furniture from the elements, a suitable finish must be applied. The best finish for cedar furniture is one that provides maximum protection against weathering. In this regard, a clear penetrating oil-based finish is the most recommended. This type of finish penetrates deeply into the wood, sealing it from the inside out and protecting it from moisture, UV rays, and other weathering elements. The oil-based finish also enhances the natural beauty of the cedar wood, giving it a warm, rich, and lustrous appearance. Another option is a semi-transparent stain that allows the wood grain to show through while providing a protective layer. It is important to note that cedar furniture should be resealed every few years to maintain its protective qualities.
Which type of finish lasts the longest on cedar wood furniture?
When it comes to cedar wood furniture, the type of finish that lasts the longest depends on the specific use and exposure of the furniture. Generally, there are two types of finishes that are commonly used on cedar wood furniture: oil-based and water-based.
Oil-based finishes, such as varnish or polyurethane, are more durable and provide better protection against moisture and UV rays. They also tend to darken the wood and enhance its natural beauty. However, they can be difficult to apply and may require more maintenance over time.
On the other hand, water-based finishes, such as acrylic or latex, are easier to apply and dry faster. They also have low VOC emissions and are more environmentally friendly. However, they may not provide as much protection against moisture and UV rays as oil-based finishes.
In conclusion, both oil-based and water-based finishes can be used on cedar wood furniture, but oil-based finishes tend to last longer and provide better protection. It's important to consider the specific use and exposure of the furniture before choosing a finish and to follow proper maintenance procedures to ensure the longevity of the finish.
Will a clear coat finish protect cedar furniture from UV rays?
Yes, a clear coat finish can help protect cedar furniture from UV rays. Cedar is a natural wood that can be easily damaged by the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause the wood to fade, discolor, and even crack over time. However, a clear coat finish can act as a protective layer that shields the wood from these harmful rays and prevents damage.
When choosing a clear coat finish for cedar furniture, it is important to select a product that is specifically designed for outdoor use and is UV-resistant. Look for a finish that contains a high level of UV inhibitors, which will help to prevent fading and damage from the sun. It is also a good idea to reapply the clear coat finish every few years to ensure continued protection.
Overall, while a clear coat finish can help protect cedar furniture from UV rays, it is important to also take other steps to maintain and care for the furniture, such as regularly cleaning and conditioning the wood.
