Ready Seal
Ready Seal Stain & Sealer
Ready Seal is an oil-based exterior wood stain and sealer in one. It needs no back brushing and is made to go on without lap marks, runs or streaks, which is why Ready Seal calls it "Goof Proof." We carry all 8 colors in gallons, 2 and 3 gallon packs and 5 gallon pails. Orders placed before 4pm ET ship the same day, with free shipping.
Shop Ready Seal by Size
| Size | Best for | Colors |
|---|
| 1 Gallon | Small decks, railings, furniture and touch-ups | All 8 |
| 2 Gallon Pack | Average decks and short fence runs | All 8 |
| 3 Gallon Pack | Larger decks and fences | All 8 |
| 5 Gallon Pail | Long fences, big decks, siding and contractors | All 8, plus Clear and Golden Pine |
Buying guides: Penofin vs Ready Seal | Best fence stain and sealer | How much stain do I need?
Ready Seal Colors
Ready Seal comes in 8 colors: Natural (formerly Light Oak), Natural Cedar, Pecan, Redwood, Burnt Hickory, Mission Brown, Mahogany and Dark Walnut. The 5 gallon pail also comes in Clear and Golden Pine. Colors can be mixed to make a custom shade. Wood type, age and how much stain the wood absorbs all change the final color, so test on a hidden spot first.
How to Apply Ready Seal
- Prep the wood. Rough-cut lumber needs no prep if it's dry. Smooth-milled and pressure-treated wood should be brightened first to open the pores. Clean gray or dirty wood, and strip any old coating, since Ready Seal shouldn't go over other stains.
- Make sure it's dry. Ready Seal recommends a moisture reading of 12% or less. New pressure-treated wood needs at least a month to dry, and 2-3 months is better.
- Apply. Stir well, then use a brush, a 3/8" nap roller or a sprayer at 40-60 PSI. Don't thin it, and don't over-apply. No back brushing is needed.
- Coats. Ready Seal recommends two light coats for most surfaces.
Watch: The Ready Seal Application Process (Ready Seal)
Ready Seal at a Glance
| Type | Oil-based, semi-transparent stain and sealer in one, flat finish |
| Back brushing | Not needed |
| Temperature | No temperature restrictions for application |
| Rain | Can handle rain from a few minutes to an hour after application |
| Reapply | About every 2 years on decks and other horizontal surfaces; every 3-4 years on fences and other vertical surfaces |
| VOC | Less than 250 g/L |
| Cleanup | Mineral spirits or paint thinner |
From Ready Seal's FAQ and application instructions. Ready Seal has been made since 1992 and became part of Rust-Oleum in 2025.
Ready Seal FAQ
Do I need to back brush Ready Seal?
No. Ready Seal is made to go on without back brushing and without lap marks, runs or streaks.
Does Ready Seal need 2 coats?
Ready Seal recommends two light coats for most surfaces. Areas hit by sprinklers may need a third.
How long should I wait to stain new pressure-treated wood?
At least a month, and Ready Seal recommends 2-3 months so the wood can dry. Check for a moisture reading of 12% or less.
How often do I need to reapply Ready Seal?
About every 2 years on decks and 3-4 years on fences and other vertical surfaces.
Can I put Ready Seal over another stain?
No. Ready Seal shouldn't be mixed with or applied over other stains or coatings, especially water-based ones. Strip the old finish first.
Where can I buy Ready Seal?
Right here, in every size and color. Orders placed before 4pm ET ship the same day, with free shipping. Questions? Email Sales@TheStainDepot.com.
