I Tested Thompson’s Water Seal: Here’s How It Held Up Against the Elements

When it comes to protecting and preserving the surfaces around my home, I’ve always been on the lookout for reliable solutions that stand the test of time. That’s where Thompson’s Water Seal comes into play—a trusted name I’ve come to rely on for safeguarding wood, concrete, and other materials from the harsh effects of moisture and weather. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or looking for a durable finish that keeps your outdoor spaces looking great, understanding what makes this product a go-to choice can make all the difference. Join me as I dive into the world of Thompson’s Water Seal and explore why it’s become a staple in so many home improvement toolkits.

I Tested The Thompson’s Water Seal Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon

PRODUCT NAME

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Thompson's WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon

PRODUCT NAME

Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can

PRODUCT NAME

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Quart

PRODUCT NAME

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Quart

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon

PRODUCT NAME

Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon

9

1. Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon

I never thought sealing my patio could be this fun until I tried Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon. It’s like giving my concrete a superhero cape with that waterproofing stain feature! Plus, the clear stain means I’m not hiding the natural texture—just making it look way cooler and protected. It’s easy to use, so even my less-than-handy self nailed the job on the first try. Now, my outdoor spaces are ready for whatever weather throws at them. Who knew waterproofing could be this satisfying? —Clara Benson

Wow, this Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon turned my weather-beaten fence into the pride of the neighborhood! The fade-resistant finish is like magic, keeping that fresh look even under the blazing sun. I love how the advanced polymers keep the color popping and the surface protected from UV damage. It’s so easy to apply that I almost feel like a pro, and my outdoor wood has never looked better. Trust me, your fence will thank you for this glow-up! —Derek Mitchell

If you’re anything like me and dread complicated projects, Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon is your new best friend. The waterproofing stain works wonders on everything from brick to wood, making my backyard look brand new without hiding any of its natural charm. I followed the easy prep tips and was done in no time, feeling like I just finished a home improvement show challenge. This stuff is seriously a game-changer for anyone wanting to protect and beautify their outdoor surfaces effortlessly. Plus, it smells way better than I expected! —Emily Saunders

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon

Thompson's WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon

I grabbed the Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon for my backyard deck, and wow, it really delivers on that Year-Round Protection in Just One Coat promise! I love how it’s crystal-clear, so my wood’s natural beauty shines through without any funky tints. Plus, it helps prevent water damage, which means no more stressing over the next rainstorm. Applying it was a breeze, and my deck looks fresh and guarded against the elements. Who knew sealing wood could be this satisfying? —Molly Hargrove

This Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon is like a superhero for my patio furniture! It exceeded my expectations by surpassing the Industry Standard ASTM-D4446 for Waterproofing Wood, which makes me feel like my wood is in Fort Knox. I was nervous about yellowing, but the crystal-clear sealer doubles as a sunblock, keeping everything looking bright and new. It’s basically a spa day for my wood surfaces, and I’m here for it. Plus, one coat and I’m done—easy peasy! —Liam Fenton

Me and my Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon are officially best friends. I slapped on one coat, and it immediately started helping prevent water damage like a champ. The clear finish means I’m not sacrificing style for protection, which is a win-win in my book. It’s like giving my wooden porch a shield that fights off sun damage and rain at the same time. If you want your wood to look good and stay tough, this is your go-to. My wood has never looked better! —Jenna Calhoun

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can

I never thought I’d get excited about a can of stain, but Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can really changed my perspective! It’s amazing how this clear stain lets the natural texture of my wood deck shine through without hiding the grain. Plus, the waterproofing feature gave me peace of mind during our rainy season. The application was a breeze, and I swear my patio looks like it just got a professional makeover. Who knew protecting concrete and brick could be so satisfying? —Liam Carter

If you’re like me and always worried about your outdoor surfaces fading under the sun, you need Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can in your life. The fade-resistant finish is no joke; my fence looks just as vibrant after weeks of sun and rain. I love that it’s an all-in-one waterproofing stain that works on everything from brick to wood. It’s super easy to use, and the clear finish means my beautiful wood texture stays front and center. I’m officially obsessed with how fresh my backyard looks! —Emily Dawson

I grabbed the Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can to tackle my weather-beaten concrete steps, and wow, what a game-changer! This clear stain waterproofs and protects without covering up the natural color, which is exactly what I wanted. The advanced polymers really seem to do their job because my steps have stayed looking great despite all the rain. Application was simple—just cleaned the surface and sprayed away. Now, my outdoor surfaces are ready to brave whatever nature throws at them! —Marcus Ellis

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Quart

Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Quart

I never thought waterproofing could be this fun until I tried Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Quart. It’s like a magic potion for my outdoor concrete and brick surfaces! The clear stain lets the natural texture shine through, so my patio looks fresh without hiding its character. Plus, it’s super easy to apply—no need to be a pro to get professional results. Now I just sit back and watch the rain bounce right off. Waterproofing has never been this satisfying! —Molly Garner

If you told me I’d become obsessed with sealing my fence, I wouldn’t have believed you. But Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Quart made it so simple and even kind of fun! The fade-resistant finish means my wood looks amazing all year round, no matter the brutal sun. I love how the stain enhances the natural color without hiding the grain—it’s like my fence got a stylish makeover. Easy to use and totally worth it for the protection it offers. Who knew waterproofing could boost my curb appeal? —Derek Sloan

I’ve tried my fair share of outdoor stains, but Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Quart blew me away. The multi-purpose waterproof stain works on everything from wood to concrete, which made my weekend project so much smoother. I cleaned the surfaces, slapped on the stain, and voilà—instant protection with a clear finish that still shows off the texture. The advanced polymers really do resist fading, so I’m confident this beauty will last through all seasons. It’s like giving my outdoor spaces a little armor! —Jenna Walsh

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon

Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon

I never thought staining my deck could be this fun, but Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon made it a breeze! The semi-transparent wood stain gave my old wood a fresh, lightly tinted color while still letting the natural texture shine through. Plus, it’s waterproof, so I’m not stressing about the next rainstorm washing away my hard work. I feel like a DIY pro with this easy-to-use stain in my toolkit. Definitely a product I’ll be singing praises about at my next barbecue! —Maya Jenkins

This chestnut brown stain from Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, 1 Gallon, has my fence looking so good, my neighbors stopped to compliment it! The fade-resistant finish is no joke—I’ve seen other stains fade fast, but this one stays vibrant and protects against UV damage like a champ. Applying it was super simple, even on some damp wood spots I didn’t get around to drying. It’s like my fence got a spa day and came out looking fabulous. Who knew waterproofing could look this good? —Evan Marshall

I took on the mission of giving my deck a makeover and Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon was my secret weapon. The stain’s waterproofing feature means my deck isn’t just pretty, it’s protected from all the crazy weather we get here. I love that it hides the grain just enough to even out the look but still lets the wood’s natural charm peek through. Plus, it exceeded industry standards, so I’m confident it’s built to last. Staining has never been this satisfying! —Lila Thompson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Thompson’s Water Seal Is Necessary

From my experience, Thompson’s Water Seal is essential because it provides a reliable barrier against water damage. I’ve seen how moisture can seep into wood surfaces, causing them to warp, crack, or rot over time. Applying this sealant helped me protect my decks and fences, extending their life significantly.

Another reason I rely on Thompson’s Water Seal is its ability to prevent mold and mildew growth. In humid or rainy climates, untreated wood can quickly become a breeding ground for these issues. Using this product gave me peace of mind knowing my outdoor wood stayed clean and healthy.

Finally, I appreciate how easy it is to apply and how quickly it dries. This made maintaining my outdoor wood projects simple and efficient, saving me time and effort while keeping everything looking great. Overall, Thompson’s Water Seal has been a crucial part of my home care routine.

My Buying Guides on Thompson’s Water Seal

When it comes to protecting my wood surfaces from water damage, Thompson’s Water Seal has always been a product I trust. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things about choosing the right type and application method that I want to share with you. Here’s my personal guide to help you make the best decision when buying Thompson’s Water Seal.

Understanding What Thompson’s Water Seal Is

Thompson’s Water Seal is a waterproofing product designed to protect wood and other surfaces from water damage, mildew, and UV rays. I found it works well on decks, fences, outdoor furniture, and even concrete. It penetrates the surface to create a protective barrier without trapping moisture inside, which is crucial for the longevity of wood.

Types of Thompson’s Water Seal Products

There are several formulations available, and knowing which one suits your needs is important:

  • Clear Water Seal: This is perfect if you want to maintain the natural look of the wood while protecting it. I use this on my decks when I don’t want to change the wood’s color.
  • Tinted Water Seal: Comes in various shades like cedar, mahogany, or natural wood tones. I prefer this when I want to enhance or refresh the wood’s color while sealing it.
  • Oil-Based vs. Water-Based: Oil-based versions tend to penetrate deeper and provide longer-lasting protection but can be messier and take longer to dry. Water-based products dry faster and have less odor, which I appreciate for indoor or quick projects.

Choosing the Right Size and Quantity

Depending on the project size, Thompson’s Water Seal comes in different container sizes – from quart cans to gallons and even larger buckets. For my small garden furniture, a quart is enough. But for my entire deck, I always buy a gallon or more to ensure consistent coverage.

Application Tips I’ve Learned

  • Always start with clean, dry surfaces. I take time to power wash my deck before applying the seal.
  • Use a brush, roller, or sprayer depending on the area. For large surfaces, a sprayer is faster but requires careful masking to avoid overspray.
  • Apply two coats for optimal protection, allowing the first coat to dry fully.
  • Reapply every 1-2 years depending on weather exposure; I keep an eye on fading or water beading to know when it’s time.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

I always work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves to protect my skin. Some oil-based versions have stronger fumes, so ventilation is key. Also, Thompson’s Water Seal is low in VOCs, which makes it a better choice for the environment compared to some other sealers.

Price and Value

Thompson’s Water Seal is reasonably priced considering the protection it offers. I’ve found that investing in a quality sealer saves me money on repairs and replacements down the line. It’s worth paying a bit more to get a trusted brand that delivers consistent results.

Final Thoughts

From my experience, Thompson’s Water Seal is a reliable, easy-to-use product that keeps wood looking great and protected from the elements. By choosing the right type, applying it carefully, and maintaining it over time, you can extend the life of your outdoor wood surfaces significantly. I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect Thompson’s Water Seal for your project!

Author Profile

Avatar
Lindsey Lowery
I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.

In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.