Choosing a quality wood sealant: What you need to know 

Need a high-quality wood sealant for a drafty door, leaky window or for your next DIY project? Read on to find out the many uses of wood sealants and how to choose the best sealant for wood in and around the home.

• The many uses of wood sealant
• How to use wood sealant
• Choosing the best sealant for wood

The many uses of wood sealant

Wood is a natural material that needs a little extra TLC. So it absolutely makes sense to invest in a high-quality wood sealant.

Wood sealants work inside and outside the home, helping you fill gaps and cracks that naturally exist in wood or appear from wear and tear over time. If used correctly, the best sealant for wood can

• draft-proof wooden joints on windows and doors,
• ensure structural integrity of wooden constructions and DIY projects like cabinets, tables, decking and fences,
• lengthen their life by preventing cracks, mold and mildew, and weather damage.

How to use wood sealant

1. Prepare a safe workspace and make sure you wear gloves to protect your hands.
2. Ensure the piece of wood you’re sealing is clean, dry and free from debris.
3. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using wood sealant (and for storing leftovers).
4. Wash your hands thoroughly.
   

Choosing the best sealant for wood

So you need a good quality wood sealant – but with the variety of products on offer, how do you choose a wood sealant that suits your needs?

There are a few factors to consider. If you’re sealing wood that’s outside or exposed to the elements, outdoor sealant for wood would be your best bet. If you’re working with wooden constructions inside the home that are exposed to moisture – like bathroom cabinets – try waterproof sealant for wood. Working with varnished or painted wood like a door or window frame? Try a clear sealant for wood. Just make sure you steer clear of silicone sealer – it’s not as compatible with wood.