Answer
Sep 09, 2025 - 02:04 AM
We have a water-based and oil-based solution to this question. Vermont Natural Coatings PolyWhey Exterior stain is a water-based stain and sealer. The Caspian Clear will slightly darken the surface but not by much. Easy to apply with almost no odor. Ultra-low VOC. I used this on my fir garage doors (vertical surface) and it lasted 8 years before I needed to reapply. However, I used Lakeside Cedar because the darker stains block UV much better than Caspian Clear.I've also tested Rubio Monocoat's DuroGrit oil-based stain and sealer. This is also a penetrating sealer that I tested on my cedar fence (horizontal surface) with Rocky Umber color for several years. So far so good with little to no degradation from the direct sun. Also, very low odor, zero VOC.Both products are excellent. I know new cedar looks beautiful but clear sealers, no matter what brand, won't control UV and it will grey out within 2-3 years. Been there and done that. Pick a nice cedar color that will block the sun and you'll have less maintenance.
