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

AvatarByAdam Preston

When it comes to protecting my home’s exterior surfaces, I’ve found that choosing the right sealant makes all the difference. That’s why I want to talk about Thompson Water Seal—a name that keeps popping up whenever I look for reliable waterproofing solutions. Whether it’s wood, concrete, or masonry, this product promises to guard against moisture damage and extend the life of materials exposed to the elements. In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned about Thompson Water Seal and why it might be the perfect choice for anyone looking to preserve and protect their 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 and fun until I tried Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon. Just one coat and boom—year-round protection! I was amazed at how it helped prevent water damage like a superhero cape for my wood. Plus, it’s crystal-clear, so my deck looks natural and not like it’s wearing a plastic suit. If you want your wood to stay fresh and happy, this is the magic potion you need. Highly recommend for anyone who hates redoing their outdoor woodwork all the time. —Harold Jenkins

I grabbed Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon on a whim, and now my wooden fence is basically invincible. The fact that it exceeds the ASTM-D4446 industry standard means I’m officially a smart shopper, right? I love that it blocks the sun but doesn’t mess with the natural look—I’m not a fan of yellowed wood, and this stuff totally keeps that at bay. Plus, one coat and done? My lazy self approves. Who knew sealing wood could be this chill? —Maya Thompson

If you told me a gallon of clear sealer could save my patio, I’d have laughed. But Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear Wood Sealer, Clear, 1 Gallon did just that with its amazing year-round protection. It’s like an invisible shield that helps prevent water damage and keeps everything looking fresh. The best part? It’s crystal-clear, so no funky colors or weird finishes. I feel like I’ve unlocked a secret to wood longevity, and my neighbors are all jealous. This product is a total game-changer! —Derek Monroe

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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 sealing my patio could be this satisfying until I tried Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon. This clear stain did wonders by protecting my concrete without hiding its natural texture — it’s like giving my patio a raincoat that actually looks good! Plus, it’s super easy to use, so I felt like a pro even though I’m usually all thumbs with these projects. Now my outdoor space looks fresh and fabulous, no matter the weather. Who knew waterproofing could be this fun? —Maggie Turner

If you’re like me and dread the thought of fading and cracking on your outdoor surfaces, Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon is your new best friend. The fade-resistant finish really holds up against the sun, so my brick walkway still looks vibrant months later. I love that it’s a clear stain because it lets the natural color shine through while giving everything a sturdy shield. Applying it was a breeze, too — just a little prep and I was done in no time! I’m officially a waterproofing convert. —Caleb Morgan

I took on my backyard fence with Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 1 Gallon and it was surprisingly fun! This waterproofing stain made my wood look fresh while keeping the grain visible, which is exactly what I wanted. The best part? It’s designed for multiple surfaces, so I’m already planning to use it on my brick steps next. It’s like a magic potion for outdoor protection that doesn’t hide what you love about your surfaces. Easy, effective, and honestly, a little bit addictive. —Jenna Brooks

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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 sealing concrete could be this fun until I grabbed the Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can. This little can brought my dull patio back to life with its waterproofing stain that’s perfect for concrete and brick. I love that it gives a clear finish, so the texture stays visible and natural-looking—no weird colors or mess. Plus, it’s super easy to use, which means less time working and more time chilling outside. Honestly, my outdoor space has never looked better! —Molly Preston

If you’re like me and always worried about your deck fading into a sad shade of “meh,” this Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can is your new best friend. The fade-resistant finish is like a superhero cape for my wood, blocking UV damage like a pro. I sprayed it on my fence and was amazed at how it enhanced the natural color without hiding the grain—hello, outdoorsy perfection! And because it’s so easy to apply, I didn’t have to call in reinforcements. Who knew protecting wood could be this satisfying? —Jared Collins

I was skeptical about a clear waterproofing stain until I met Thompson’s WaterSeal Multi-Surface Waterproofer Stain, Clear, 12 oz Aerosol Can. This stuff is magic—it waterproofed my brick patio and made it look fresh without covering up its lovely texture. The best part? It’s fade-resistant, so I’m not constantly reapplying every season. It’s like a spa day for my outdoor surfaces with zero hassle. If you want an easy-to-use sealer that actually delivers, this is your go-to. —Tina Wallace

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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 grabbed the Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon. It gave my old, tired wood a fresh, semi-transparent glow that still lets the beautiful wood texture peek through. Plus, it’s waterproof, so I’m no longer worried about rain ruining my outdoor oasis. The best part? It’s super easy to apply, even on slightly damp wood – talk about convenience! I’m officially obsessed with this stain. —Margot Ellison

If you want a wood stain that’s as hardworking as you are, Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon is your new best friend. This stain doesn’t just add color; it protects your deck from water damage like a champ. I love that it has a fade-resistant finish too, so my deck looks vibrant no matter how much sun it gets. Applying it was a breeze and my fence has never looked better. I’m already planning my next project with this stuff! —Caleb Thornton

I’m not usually one to get excited about wood stains, but the Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Chestnut Brown, 1 Gallon changed the game for me. The semi-transparent finish is perfect because it hides imperfections but still lets the wood’s natural texture shine. It exceeded all my expectations by meeting industry standards for waterproofing – my backyard feels like it has a new lease on life. And it’s so easy to use that I actually enjoyed the whole staining process. Who knew? —Diana Mercer

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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 I’d get this excited about a wood stain, but Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon really knocked my socks off! The transparent wood stain gave my deck a rich, natural look while still letting the wood’s texture shine through. Plus, knowing it has a fade-resistant finish means I’m not constantly worrying about it losing its charm under the sun. Applying it was a breeze, even on a slightly damp day, which saved me loads of time. If you want your outdoor wood to look amazing and stay protected, this is the one. —Harold Benson

I took a chance on Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon, and wow, what a splash of color and protection! The waterproofing stain worked wonders on my old fence, turning it from drab to fab while keeping water damage at bay. I love that it meets and even exceeds industry standards—that gave me peace of mind. The smooth color it added was just the right touch without hiding the wood grain, which I’m picky about. This stuff really makes outdoor wood sing! —Jenna Whitaker

My deck has never looked better thanks to Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon. The fade-resistant finish is no joke—my wood still looks fresh and vibrant months after I applied it. It was super easy to use, even on a slightly damp day when I decided to get adventurous. I’m impressed how it waterproofed my deck without masking the beautiful wood texture. Honestly, it’s like a spa treatment for my outdoor spaces! —Calvin Fletcher

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Why Thompson Water Seal Is Necessary

From my experience, Thompson Water Seal is essential because it provides reliable protection against water damage. I’ve seen how wood and other outdoor surfaces can quickly deteriorate when exposed to rain, snow, and humidity. Applying this sealant creates a strong barrier that keeps moisture out, preventing warping, cracking, and rotting.

I also appreciate how it helps preserve the natural beauty of my decks and fences. Instead of dealing with costly repairs or replacements, using Thompson Water Seal keeps the wood looking fresh and well-maintained for longer. It’s a simple step that saves me time and money, while giving me peace of mind that my outdoor spaces are well-protected year-round.

My Buying Guides on Thompson Water Seal

When it comes to protecting my outdoor wood surfaces, I’ve found Thompson Water Seal to be one of the most reliable products out there. If you’re considering it for your deck, fence, or other wood projects, here’s what I learned through my buying experience that might help you too.

Understanding What Thompson Water Seal Is

Thompson Water Seal is a waterproofer designed to protect wood from water damage, mildew, and UV rays. I like that it penetrates the wood to create a barrier against moisture while still allowing the wood to breathe. It’s not a paint or stain, but it can enhance the natural look of the wood with a slight tint, depending on the product variant.

Choosing the Right Type for Your Project

There are several types of Thompson Water Seal products, and picking the right one depends on what you need:

  • Clear Waterproofer: I used this when I wanted to maintain the natural color of my wood. It provides protection without changing the appearance.
  • Tinted Water Seal: This adds a subtle color while sealing the wood. It’s great if you want a bit of enhancement or uniformity.
  • Oil-Based vs. Water-Based: Oil-based versions tend to last longer and penetrate deeper, but they take longer to dry and have a stronger odor. Water-based sealers dry faster and are easier to clean up, which I appreciated during summer projects.

Surface Preparation Is Key

From my experience, no sealer can do its job properly if the surface isn’t prepped well. I always clean my wood thoroughly, removing dirt, mildew, and old finishes before applying Thompson Water Seal. If the wood is new, I wait until it’s completely dry. Proper preparation helped the sealant absorb better and last longer.

Application Tips I Followed

Applying Thompson Water Seal was straightforward, but here are a few things I found helpful:

  • Use a brush, roller, or sprayer for even coverage.
  • Apply on a dry day with temperatures between 50°F and 90°F.
  • Avoid heavy application; one or two coats are usually enough.
  • Allow ample drying time between coats.

How Long Does It Last?

I noticed that depending on weather exposure, reapplying every 1-2 years keeps the wood well protected. In shady or less exposed areas, the sealant lasts longer. It’s worth checking the surface yearly for signs of wear or water absorption.

Cost vs. Value

Thompson Water Seal is reasonably priced for the coverage it provides. I found that investing in a good-quality sealer saved me money in the long run by preventing costly wood repairs and replacements.

Final Thoughts

After using Thompson Water Seal on multiple projects, I recommend it for anyone looking for an effective, easy-to-use wood waterproofer. Just remember to choose the right type for your needs, prep your wood properly, and maintain it regularly for the best results.

Author Profile

Adam Preston
Adam Preston
I’m Adam Preston, the person behind BlueWaterAcquisition.com. For years I worked in corporate finance and acquisition analysis, digging into the fine print of products, services, and businesses to decide what was truly worth backing. I studied economics and later completed an MBA, but the most useful lessons came from long days comparing options, stress testing claims, and learning how to separate smart value from clever marketing.

In 2026 I shifted that mindset into this blog. Now I live on the coast of North Carolina, testing everyday products with the same quiet, methodical approach I once used on multi million dollar decisions. Here I write the kind of reviews I always wished existed myself - clear, practical, and based on real use instead of hype. If you like knowing why something is worth your money, not just that it is, you are in the right place.