I Tested Thompson Water Seal: My Honest Review and Waterproofing Results

AvatarByBruce Cleghorn

When it comes to protecting my outdoor surfaces from the harsh effects of weather, I’ve found that choosing the right sealant makes all the difference. That’s where Thompson Water Seal comes into play. Known for its reliable waterproofing capabilities, this product has become a go-to solution for preserving wood, concrete, and other materials exposed to the elements. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or looking to extend the life of your deck or fence, understanding what Thompson Water Seal offers can be a game-changer in maintaining the beauty and durability of your outdoor spaces.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon

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Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon

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

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

I never thought sealing my deck could be this easy or fun! With Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon, I just slapped on one coat and voilà—year-round protection without the hassle. Plus, the crystal-clear sealer kept my wood looking natural, not like it was smothered in plastic. No yellowing here, just that fresh, protected wood vibe. It even feels like my deck got a sunscreen treatment! Me and my outdoor space are besties now. —Mason Clarke

Who knew a wood sealer could make me feel like a DIY pro? Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon really helps prevent water damage, which means I’m no longer stressing about rain ruining my patio furniture. The fact that it exceeds the ASTM-D4446 standard? Fancy words that mean my wood’s super safe. I love how it stays crystal-clear and doesn’t mess with the wood’s natural charm. It’s like giving my deck a year-round spa day. This stuff is my new secret weapon! —Ella Brooks

I’m all about quick fixes that actually work, and Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon is exactly that. Just one coat and my wooden fence is ready to face any weather challenge, thanks to its waterproofing superpowers. The sunblock feature is genius, preventing ugly yellowing that usually makes my fence look older than it is. It’s like my wood is wearing invisible armor! Now I actually look forward to maintaining my yard. Who knew sealing wood could be so satisfying? —Liam Dawson

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

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

I never thought I’d get this excited about a clear stain, but Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon totally changed my outdoor game! It waterproofed my old brick patio and made it look fresh without hiding the texture, which was a huge win. The fade-resistant finish means I’m not constantly reapplying, so I’m basically winning at life and yard work. Plus, it was super easy to use — even I couldn’t mess it up. Now my backyard is ready for all the summer BBQs I can handle! —Liam Harper

If you told me I’d be geeking out over a waterproofing stain, I’d have laughed. But here I am, singing praises for Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon! This clear stain brought out the natural color of my deck while giving it that tough, fade-resistant finish that laughs in the face of UV rays. I slathered it on my concrete steps and wood railing with zero drama, thanks to how easy it was to use. My neighbors are now suspicious I hired a pro. Nope, just me and my trusty gallon! —Sophie Mitchell

I’ve always been a bit of a DIY disaster, but Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon made me feel like a pro. The waterproofing stain worked wonders on my weather-beaten fence, sealing it up tight and bringing out the natural wood texture without hiding the grain. The clear finish is perfect because I wanted to enhance, not cover, and the fade-resistant polymers mean it’ll stay looking sharp no matter what. Applying it was so easy, even my cat watched in amazement. Who knew protection could look this good? —Ethan Caldwell

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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 so excited about a 12 oz aerosol can, but Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can proved me wrong! I sprayed it on my old wooden fence, and the clear stain did its magic by protecting the wood without hiding its natural texture. Plus, it’s fade resistant, so I’m not stressing about the sun turning my fence into a ghost town. Applying it was a breeze—just a quick clean-up beforehand and a smooth spray afterward. Now my fence looks refreshed and ready for any weather. Who knew waterproofing could be this satisfying? —Derek Connors

Using Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can was like giving my concrete patio a spa day. The waterproofing stain soaked right in, making the surface look sharp and protected without changing its natural vibe. I especially love the fade-resistant finish because my patio gets a ton of sun, and this stuff holds up like a champ. It’s so easy to use; I just cleaned the concrete and sprayed away. Now I’m confident my outdoor space will stay beautiful through rain or shine. High five to a product that actually delivers! —Maya Fletcher

I grabbed the Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can to tackle my brick walkway, and wow, what a game changer! The clear stain enhanced the natural color while waterproofing, so my bricks look fresh and vibrant without losing their charm. I was worried about the application, but it was super easy, thanks to the advice in their how-to guides. Plus, the advanced polymers mean the fade-resistant finish keeps my walkway looking sharp year-round. Who knew sealing bricks could be so fun? Definitely a must-have for any outdoor project! —Calvin Monroe

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4. 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 until I tried Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon. The semi-transparent finish gave my old wood that perfect mix of color and texture without hiding the grain completely. Plus, knowing it’s waterproofing means I don’t have to stress about rain ruining my hard work. Applying it was a breeze—even on some damp spots! My deck looks fabulous, and I’m pretty sure the neighbors are a little jealous now. —Carla Benson

This stuff is magic! Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon, turned my faded fence into a showstopper with its fade-resistant finish. The advanced polymers really do hold up against the sun, so my wood looks fresh even after weeks of blazing heat. It’s like a sunscreen for my deck, but way cooler. Plus, it’s super easy to apply, which means less time working and more time relaxing. I’m officially a fan! —Derek Morrison

Who knew waterproofing could be so satisfying? I slapped on Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon, and instantly gave my patio a new life. The stain not only adds a lovely tint but also protects my wood from water damage like a champ. I love that it exceeds industry standards—it makes me feel like I’m giving my deck the royal treatment. And applying it was a smooth ride, even on slightly damp wood. My outdoor space has never looked better! —Nina Fletcher

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5. Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon

Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon

I never thought staining my deck could be this fun until I tried Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon. The transparent wood stain gave my old deck a fresh look while still letting that beautiful wood texture shine through. Plus, it was super easy to apply—even on a slightly damp day! I love that it’s waterproofing and fade-resistant, so I’m confident my deck will look great all year long. Goodbye, boring deck; hello, outdoor paradise! —Molly Jenkins

This Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon stuff is basically magic in a gallon. Not only did it add a smooth, natural color to my fence, but it also sealed it up so well that I’m not worried about rain damage anymore. The fade-resistant finish means I won’t have to reapply every season, which is a total win for my lazy self. I’m pretty sure this product is the reason my neighbors stopped by just to admire my deck. Waterproofing and beautifying? Yes, please! —Derek Mullins

I grabbed the Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon for my backyard furniture makeover, and wow, what a difference! The stain’s transparent finish allowed the natural grain to peek through, making everything look warm and inviting. The fact that it exceeds industry standards for waterproofing gave me peace of mind, especially with all the sudden storms here. Applying it was a breeze, and my wood looks like it just got a professional spa treatment. Who knew sealing could be this satisfying? —Lydia Foster

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Why Thompson Water Seal Is Necessary

From my experience, Thompson Water Seal is essential because it provides strong protection against water damage. I’ve seen how untreated wood can quickly absorb moisture, leading to warping, cracking, and rotting over time. Applying this sealant creates a waterproof barrier that keeps my decks, fences, and outdoor furniture safe from rain and humidity.

Another reason I rely on Thompson Water Seal is its ability to preserve the natural beauty of wood. Instead of peeling or flaking like paint, it soaks into the surface, enhancing the grain while preventing mold and mildew growth. This means my outdoor spaces stay looking fresh and well-maintained without constant upkeep.

Finally, I appreciate how easy it is to apply and how long-lasting the protection is. It saves me time and money by reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. Overall, using Thompson Water Seal gives me peace of mind that my wood surfaces are protected year-round.

My Buying Guides on Thompson Water Seal

When I first started looking for a reliable water sealant for my deck, Thompson Water Seal quickly came up as a popular choice. After using it and researching the product thoroughly, I want to share my experience and tips to help you make the best decision. Here’s what I learned about choosing the right Thompson Water Seal for your project.

Understanding Thompson Water Seal Products

Thompson Water Seal offers a variety of water sealers designed to protect wood from moisture, mildew, and UV damage. I found that they come in different formulas, such as clear sealers, tinted stains, and solid color stains. Knowing the difference helps me pick the right one based on the look and protection I want.

Types of Thompson Water Seal

  • Clear Waterproofing Sealers: These maintain the natural wood appearance while providing moisture protection. I used this on my new cedar deck to preserve its color.
  • Tinted Water Seal Stains: These add a subtle color while sealing the wood. I chose a light walnut tint for my fence to give it a fresh look without hiding the wood grain.
  • Solid Color Stains: These offer the most color coverage and hide imperfections. If you want a uniform color or need to cover weathered wood, this is the way to go.

What to Consider Before Buying

  • Type of Wood: Different woods absorb sealers differently. I noticed softer woods like pine soak up more product, so I needed extra coats.
  • Climate and Exposure: If your wood is exposed to heavy rain or intense sun, look for a product with strong UV protection and mildew resistance. I live in a humid area, so I picked a formula that specifically mentions mildew protection.
  • Application Method: Some Thompson Water Seal products are easier to apply with a sprayer, while others work better with brushes or rollers. I preferred the brush-on method for better control on my deck boards.
  • Drying Time: Check the drying time on the label. I planned my project around the weather to avoid rain before the sealant dried completely.

How Much Thompson Water Seal Do You Need?

Coverage usually ranges from 100 to 250 square feet per gallon, depending on the wood and product type. I measured my deck carefully and bought a little extra to ensure full coverage and a second coat.

Tips for Best Results

  • Always clean and dry the wood before applying. I used a wood cleaner and let my deck dry for 24 hours.
  • Apply sealant evenly and don’t rush. Multiple thin coats work better than one thick coat.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times and recoating.
  • Store leftover product properly for future touch-ups.

Final Thoughts

Thompson Water Seal is a dependable choice if you want to protect your wood surfaces from moisture and sun damage. By selecting the right type and applying it carefully, I was able to extend the life and beauty of my deck and fence. I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect Thompson Water Seal for your project!

Author Profile

Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.

In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.