Ready Seal
Ready Seal Exterior Stain & Sealer is an oil-based, semi-transparent stain and sealer for exterior wood: decks, fences, siding, and similar surfaces. Per Ready Seal, it penetrates without back-brushing, is VOC compliant at under 250 g/L, and reaches its true color in 7 to 10 days after application.
| Spec | Ready Seal guidance |
|---|---|
| Coverage | About 125 to 175 sq ft per gallon depending on wood type and porosity (new wood uses less; older wood absorbs more) |
| Coats | One generous coat or two light coats at least 45 minutes apart; no back-brushing required |
| Dry time | About 48 to 72 hours at 75°F / 65% humidity; cooler or humid weather takes longer |
| Moisture | Wood must be 12% moisture or less before staining |
| VOC | Under 250 g/L; meets federal and state VOC requirements per Ready Seal |
| Apply with | Brush, roller, pump sprayer, or airless sprayer |
| Longevity | About 1 to 3 years on horizontal surfaces; 3 to 5 years on vertical (Ready Seal FAQ) |
Prep: Surface must be clean of mildew, dust, dirt, oil, and grease. Remove previous stains and sealers. Rinse thoroughly and let wood dry completely (often 48 hours or more). New pressure-treated lumber needs at least 1 month dry time (Ready Seal recommends 2 to 3 months aging). Stir well before use and inter-mix same-color containers.
Shop related: low VOC deck stains, Messmer's UV Plus, deck staining project cart, and best deck stain colors.
FAQ
Do I need to back-brush Ready Seal?
No. Ready Seal says apply one generous coat or two light coats with at least 45 minutes between coats and that no back-brushing is necessary.
Is Ready Seal low VOC?
Yes. Ready Seal states VOC under 250 g/L and that the product meets federal and all state VOC requirements.
How long until the color looks right?
Ready Seal is darker when first applied and reaches its true color in 7 to 10 days.
Can I recoat without stripping?
Yes for existing Ready Seal. Ready Seal says it may be applied over previous Ready Seal coats without removing the old coating. A light cleaning and recoat every 2 years on horizontals (3 to 4 years on verticals) is their maintenance guidance.
Interior use?
Ready Seal is designed for exterior use only. Interior use is not their primary recommendation.
Filters
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