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Dark Walnut is one of Ready Seal's deeper pigmented shades in its oil-based, semi-transparent exterior stain and sealer. Ready Seal's tech sheet describes a blend of paraffin oil, resins, finely ground trans-oxide pigments and algaecide that penetrates deeply, and it says the formula contains no linseed or vegetable oils that feed algae and fungus. The penetration is why prep matters so much: stain can only go where open, clean, dry wood lets it.
Free shipping at $75, no code needed (lower 48 + DC). Unopened cans can be returned within 30 days with a prepaid label; opened paint can't (refund policy).
| Surface | Sq ft per gallon |
|---|---|
| Cedar siding, smooth | 150 |
| Cedar siding, rough | 125 |
| Pine siding | 170 |
| Cedar shingles | 150 |
Ready Seal notes it works best on rough-sawn wood and does well on Western red cedar, Douglas fir, cypress, spruce and redwood.
Dense exotics such as Ipe, Garapa and Tiger Wood may need a fresh coat every year. Keep pets off until it has dried; Ready Seal says it is fine for use in barns and stables once dry. The tech sheet lists weight at 7.5 lb per gallon, solids at 81 to 85% by weight and 65 to 69% by volume, and VOC under 250 g/L. It also notes the product is toxic to fish, so keep it out of ponds and surface water, and it should not be used on wood that will touch food.
How should I clean the wood before staining? Ready Seal recommends a wash of 1 part bleach to 3 parts water. All previous stains and sealers must be removed, any caustic stripper neutralized, and the wood left to dry at least 48 hours.
Is pressure washing OK? Yes, gently. Ready Seal says to stay at 1500 psi or less, use the widest tip, and hold the wand about 18 inches from the wood.
Should I sand before applying Ready Seal? Ready Seal doesn't recommend it because sanding closes the wood's pores. If you must sand, use 60 or 80 grit, and expect the wood may only accept one light coat.
Dark Walnut information: the Ready Seal FAQ and the Ready Seal technical data sheet. Every color is in the Ready Seal collection.
Free standard shipping on orders $75+ to the lower 48 states and DC. Some large or heavy items are excluded at checkout.
30-day returns on unused, unopened items. Returns accepted within 30 days. We send you a prepaid return label. Contact us within 30 days of delivery to start a return. Opened paint, aerosols, flammables, special orders and sale items can't be returned. Read the full refund policy.
Use this product page for the exact item, then check the Weekend Project Carts for prep, applicators, patch, cleanup, and finishing supplies. If you are still choosing a method, start with the Project Guides before adding everything to cart.
