Flood Easy Seal vs Ready Seal: Which Stain Should You Buy?
Flood Easy Seal and Ready Seal are two of the easiest stains you can put on a deck or fence. Both are oil-based, semi-transparent stain-and-sealers that go on without back brushing, and both come in nearly the same color lineup. We sell both, so here is a straight comparison to help you pick.
The Quick Answer
- Pick Flood Easy Seal if you want a manufacturer guarantee in writing (5 years on fences and siding, 4 years on decks) and a true one-coat application.
- Pick Ready Seal if you want more color choices (10, including Clear and Golden Pine), 2 and 3 gallon packs, or flexibility on weather. Ready Seal lists no specific temperature range for application.
Flood Easy Seal vs Ready Seal Side by Side
| Flood Easy Seal | Ready Seal | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Oil-based semi-transparent stain + sealer | Oil-based semi-transparent stain + sealer |
| Coats | One-coat application | Self-blending, no back brushing |
| Runs and lap marks | Made to prevent runs and laps | Made to leave no runs, laps or streaks |
| How to apply | Brush, roller, pump-up or airless sprayer | Spray, roll or brush (do not thin for spraying) |
| What's in it | Penetrol additive for deep penetration | Penetrating oils that stay flexible |
| Colors | 8 | 10 |
| Guarantee | 5 yrs fences/siding, 4 yrs decks | Not stated |
| Sizes | Gallon, 5 gallon pail | Gallon, 2 and 3 gallon packs, 5 gallon pail |
| Price at The Stain Depot | $49.99 gal / $169.99 pail | $46.95 gal / $169.99 pail |
| Shipping | Free | Free |
Same Color Names, Different Stains
Both come in Natural, Natural Cedar, Redwood, Mahogany, Pecan, Mission Brown, Dark Walnut and Burnt Hickory. Ready Seal adds Clear and Golden Pine. The same name does not mean the identical shade, and every wood takes color differently, so test a small area before you commit.
Decks, Fences or Big Jobs?
- Decks: both work well. Easy Seal's 4-year deck guarantee gives you something in writing. Ready Seal is forgiving to apply.
- Fences and siding: both spray easily, and the 5 gallon pails are the same price: Flood Easy Seal 5 gallon and Ready Seal 5 gallon, $169.99 each with free shipping.
- Switching from one to the other: both are penetrating oils. Clean the wood well and test a small area first. If you are unsure, email us a photo at Sales@TheStainDepot.com.
Flood Easy Seal vs Ready Seal FAQ
Is Flood Easy Seal the same as Ready Seal?
No. They are different brands from different companies. Flood is part of Pittsburgh Paints, and Ready Seal is its own brand. They are similar products with a similar color lineup.
Do Flood Easy Seal and Ready Seal come in the same colors?
Mostly. Eight color names match: Natural, Natural Cedar, Redwood, Mahogany, Pecan, Mission Brown, Dark Walnut and Burnt Hickory. Ready Seal adds Clear and Golden Pine.
Does either one need back brushing?
No. Neither Flood Easy Seal nor Ready Seal needs back brushing.
Which lasts longer, Flood Easy Seal or Ready Seal?
Flood guarantees Easy Seal for 5 years on fences and siding and 4 years on decks. With either stain, how long it lasts depends on sun, foot traffic and prep.
Can I spray Flood Easy Seal and Ready Seal?
Yes, both can be sprayed. Flood Easy Seal can go on with a pump-up or airless sprayer, and Ready Seal should not be thinned for spraying.
Shop Flood Easy Seal → | Shop Ready Seal →