Redwood is a popular and attractive material for outdoor furniture, decks, and other exterior applications due to its natural beauty and durability. However, to maintain its appearance and extend its lifespan, redwood requires proper maintenance, including applying a suitable stain. A high-quality stain can protect redwood from weathering, UV damage, and other environmental factors, while enhancing its natural color and grain.
Choosing the right stain for redwood can be a challenging task, as there are numerous options available in the market, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. In this blog post, we will explore the best stain for redwood and provide you with useful tips and insights to help you make an informed decision. We will discuss the different types of stains, their pros and cons, and factors to consider when selecting a stain for your redwood project. By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of the best stain for your redwood project, and how to apply it to achieve the best results. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive in!
5 Best stain for Redwood Products on the Market
Name | Type | Features | Rating |
---|---|---|---|
Ready Seal | Oil-based | No primer or sealer needed, waterproof, UV-resistant | 9.8 |
DEFY Extreme | Water-based | Eco-friendly, waterproof, UV-resistant, low-VOC | 9.5 |
Cabot Australian Timber Oil | Oil-based | Deep penetrating formula, enhances natural wood grain, UV protection | 9.3 |
Sikkens Cetol SRD | Translucent | Easy application, excellent UV protection, long-lasting | 9.0 |
Penofin Red Label | Oil-based | Transparent finish, mildew-resistant, easy to maintain | 8.5 |
Ready Seal
Ready Seal is one of the most popular oil-based stains on the market for redwood, and it’s not hard to see why. As an epoxy resin enthusiast, I can appreciate the waterproof and UV-resistant qualities of this stain. It’s also incredibly easy to apply, and you don’t need to use a primer or sealer before using it.
The deep penetration formula of this stain also ensures that it enhances the natural color and grain of the redwood, giving it a beautiful and uniform finish. I’ve personally used this product on several redwood projects, including outdoor furniture and decks, and the results have been consistently impressive.
The only potential drawback of Ready Seal is that it may not be as long-lasting as some other stains on the market. However, with proper maintenance and occasional reapplication, this should not be a significant issue.
Overall, I highly recommend Ready Seal for anyone looking for an easy-to-use and effective stain for their redwood projects.

Features
- Oil-based stain
- No primer or sealer needed
- Waterproof and UV-resistant
- Deep penetrating formula
- Enhances natural color and grain
- Easy to apply
Strong Points
- Waterproof and UV-resistant
- Enhances natural color and grain
- Easy to apply
Weak Points
May not be as long-lasting as some other stains
What Sets Ready Seal Apart from its Competitors
One of the most significant advantages of Ready Seal is its oil-based formula, which ensures that it penetrates deep into the wood, providing superior protection against water, UV rays, and other environmental factors. This deep penetration also enhances the natural color and grain of the wood, resulting in a beautiful and long-lasting finish.
In addition to its effectiveness, Ready Seal is incredibly easy to use. With no primer or sealer required, it’s a straightforward one-step process that even beginners can handle with ease. This simplicity also makes it a cost-effective option, as you don’t need to spend extra money on additional products or tools.
Overall, I would highly recommend Ready Seal to anyone looking for a top-quality stain for their redwood projects. Whether you’re a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, this product is an excellent choice for its effectiveness, ease of use, and affordability.
DeckWise
DeckWise is another fantastic stain for redwood that offers superior protection against water, UV rays, and other environmental factors. As someone who’s used a variety of stains over the years, I can say that DeckWise is one of the best when it comes to durability and long-lasting performance.
One of the unique features of this stain is its ability to repel water, which makes it an excellent choice for outdoor redwood projects such as decks and fences. It’s also a semi-transparent stain, which means that it enhances the natural color and grain of the wood while still providing a uniform finish.
Another advantage of DeckWise is that it’s relatively easy to apply. While it does require a primer coat, the stain itself goes on smoothly and evenly, and it dries relatively quickly. The result is a beautiful and durable finish that should last for years with proper maintenance.

Features
- Water-repellent
- Semi-transparent
- Enhances natural color and grain
- Durable and long-lasting
- Easy to apply
Strong Points
- Water-repellent
- Enhances natural color and grain
- Durable and long-lasting
Weak Points
- Requires a primer coat
- May not be as easy to use as some other stains

How the Top Best Stain For Redwood Products Measures Up
Product #1 excels in its water-repellent properties and is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a stain that can withstand harsh weather conditions. Product #2, on the other hand, offers a wide range of color options and is ideal for those looking to customize their redwood project to their specific aesthetic preferences. Finally, Product #3 offers easy application and long-lasting performance, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and low-maintenance stain.
Overall, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing an epoxy resin stain for your redwood project. While each product has its own strengths and weaknesses, they all offer effective protection and enhancement of the natural beauty of redwood.
Comparable Products to Consider
- Product #1 – This product is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a stain that can withstand harsh weather conditions, thanks to its water-repellent properties. I would recommend this product for outdoor projects such as decks, fences, and other structures that will be exposed to the elements.
- Product #2 – This product offers a wide range of color options, making it ideal for anyone who wants to customize their redwood project to their specific aesthetic preferences. I would recommend this product for indoor projects such as furniture, cabinets, and other decorative items.
- Product #3 – This product is easy to apply and offers long-lasting performance, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and low-maintenance stain. I would recommend this product for projects such as flooring, countertops, and other high-traffic areas.
Ultimately, the best product for your redwood project will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It’s important to consider factors such as the type of project, the level of maintenance required, and the desired aesthetic outcome when choosing an epoxy resin stain. By doing your research and considering your options carefully, you can find the perfect stain for your redwood project that will protect and enhance its natural beauty for years to come.
Key Decision-Making Factors for the Best Stain for Redwood
- Protection – The stain should provide adequate protection against UV rays, water damage, and other environmental factors that can damage redwood.
- Durability – The stain should be durable enough to withstand regular use and wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Aesthetics – The stain should enhance the natural beauty of redwood while also providing a desired color or finish.
- Ease of application – The stain should be easy to apply, with clear instructions and minimal mess.
- Maintenance: The stain should require minimal maintenance and touch-ups over time.
Based on these key decision-making factors, each product reviewed can be rated in terms of performance. For example, Product #1 performs well in protection and durability, making it a great choice for outdoor projects that will be exposed to harsh weather conditions. Product #2 excels in aesthetics, with a wide range of color options that can be customized to the user’s preferences. Product #3 offers ease of application and requires minimal maintenance, making it a convenient and low-maintenance option for indoor or outdoor projects.
Ultimately, the best stain for redwood will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences, but by considering these key decision-making factors, it is possible to find a product that meets all of your requirements and delivers the desired results.
Useful Manufacturers Resources
Behr is a popular manufacturer of wood stains and finishes, and their Premium Solid Color Waterproofing Stain and Sealer is an excellent choice for redwood. This product is designed to provide long-lasting protection against harsh weather conditions, while also enhancing the natural beauty of the wood. The Behr website is a great resource for information on this and other products, with detailed product descriptions, application tips, and user reviews.
Cabot is another top manufacturer of wood stains and finishes, and their Pacific Redwood Stain is a great option for redwood. This product is designed to provide excellent protection against UV rays and water damage, while also highlighting the natural beauty of the wood. The Cabot website is a great resource for information on this and other products, with detailed product descriptions, application tips, and user reviews.
- Thompson’s WaterSeal – https://www.thompsonswaterseal.com/products/wood-stain/waterproofing-stain
Thompson’s WaterSeal is a trusted brand for waterproofing and staining outdoor wood, and their Waterproofing Stain is a great choice for redwood. This product is designed to provide long-lasting protection against water damage and mildew growth, while also enhancing the natural beauty of the wood. The Thompson’s WaterSeal website is a great resource for information on this and other products, with detailed product descriptions, application tips, and user reviews.
Table of Equipment to Work With the Best Stain for Redwood
Equipment | Description |
---|---|
Paint brushes | Used to apply the stain to the wood |
Roller | Used for larger surface areas for more even coverage |
Paint sprayer | Used for a smooth and even application on large surfaces |
Drop cloth | Protects the surrounding areas from stain spills and drips |
Sandpaper | Used to sand down rough areas or previous coatings |
Clean rags | Used to wipe off excess stain and to clean up equipment |
Paint stirrer | Used to mix the stain before application |
Paint tray | Used to hold the stain and make the brush or roller more even |
Protective gear | Gloves, masks, and goggles to protect against stain fumes |
Using the proper equipment can make a big difference in the quality of the finished product. Paint brushes, rollers, and sprayers can all be used to apply the stain, depending on the size and shape of the surface. A drop cloth should be used to protect the surrounding areas from spills and drips. Sandpaper can be used to smooth out rough spots or previous coatings before applying the stain. Clean rags should be kept on hand to wipe off excess stain and clean up equipment. A paint stirrer can be used to mix the stain before application, and a paint tray can hold the stain and make the brush or roller more even. Finally, protective gear such as gloves, masks, and goggles should be worn to protect against stain fumes.
F.A.Q.
What is the best type of stain for redwood?
There are many types of stain that work well for redwood, but oil-based stains tend to provide the best protection and longevity for the wood. However, water-based stains are often more environmentally friendly and may be a better choice for indoor use or for those who are sensitive to the fumes of oil-based stains.
How many coats of stain should I apply to redwood?
The number of coats of stain needed depends on the type of stain and the condition of the wood. In general, one or two coats of stain should be sufficient for redwood. However, if the wood is very porous or has deep scratches or gouges, additional coats may be needed to achieve a uniform finish.
How long does the stain take to dry?
The drying time for stain depends on the type of stain and the environmental conditions. Oil-based stains usually take longer to dry than water-based stains, and high humidity or cool temperatures can also prolong the drying time. In general, stains should be given at least 24 hours to dry before applying a second coat or handling the wood.
Can I use a sealer over the stain?
Yes, it is generally recommended to use a sealer over the stain to provide added protection and to help maintain the color of the stain. However, be sure to use a sealer that is compatible with the type of stain you used.
How often do I need to reapply the stain?
The frequency of reapplication depends on several factors, such as the type of stain, the environmental conditions, and the level of use the wood receives. In general, you can expect to need to reapply the stain every two to five years. However, it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations.

Max Williams is a talented epoxy resin specialist with over 10 years of experience in the industry. He is known for his exceptional skills in creating stunning resin art pieces, as well as his expertise in epoxy coating and concrete resurfacing.
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