5 Best UV Protection for Wood (Is It Really Needed)

By / August 7, 2023

It’s frustrating! Whenever your wooden surfaces don’t last for a long time, that can be frustrating. And, what could cause this to happen? 

Well, a lot can contribute to this factor. But, exposure to harmful UV rays can make matters worse. So, it’s better to provide some protection against it. 

That said, you can easily purchase the best UV protection for wood and get the job done. Furthermore, these products make the wooden surface better by healing it. Plus, it provides an overall natural or glossy glow the way you prefer it.

No products found.

However, there are options for these products in the market. Hence, I am here to guide you through the whole process. Firstly, I’ve researched and brought out the best products in our review section. 

1. MESSMER’s MC-500-5 UV Wood Finish

No products found.

  • Quantity: 5-gallon 
  • Type of finish: Oil-based 
  • Color: Natural 
  • Finish: Matte
  • Material: Liquid
  • Drying time: 24 hours
  • Coverage area: 150-250 sq ft/gal

Hands down to the best product on this list- MESSMER’s MC-500-5. If your wooden surface is suffering from cracking and fading, look into this product. Because it’ll ensure that your surface is protected from UV rays and is healed internally. 

That said, what are the other notable features of this product? Let’s find it out ourselves- 

Now, this is the first oil-based product on this list. So, it’ll provide a natural yet shiny appearance to your surface after usage. And, right after you apply it, the healing process starts. 

Add to that, the UV ray protection is there almost all the time. So, just add in a coating and it’ll protect against sunlight and UV rays together. Overall, this product works at beautifying the surfaces and other wooden projects. 

Here, it’ll penetrate the surface completely and work at providing healing against cracking. When it heals the surface from the inside, it even works at protecting the surface from the outside. 

Other than that, the product itself provides better resistance against all sorts of UV degradation. On top of that, it’ll even work at resisting mildew and mold formation all the time. 

So, your exterior and interior wooden surfaces will always be saved from the wrath of mother nature. That itself is a bonus, right? 

Now, let’s talk about the application process. Being an oil-based product, you won’t require much fuss about the application anyway. So, take that paintbrush and start applying this product to the surface. 

And, if you do the application process correctly, the product won’t start peeling off the surface. So, you have to wait a bit for the drying process. As soon as the surface is dried to the touch, start working on it. 

To be precise, this product comes with a drying time of 24 hours flat. So, you might want to wait for a bit. 

As it’s an oil-based product, you won’t have problems with cleaning that much. If needed then use mineral spirits in cleaning the surface after applying this product. 

In the end, this is our favorite choice and it has ensured all-time protection from UV rays. And, it’ll even ensure that mildew formation won’t be a problem to your surface. 

So, have trust in this product as it’ll heal the surface from the inside and provide a shiny appearance on the outside. 

2. Ready Seal 512 Exterior Sealer for Wood

No products found.

  • Quantity: 5-gallon 
  • Type of finish: Oil-based 
  • Color: Natural Cedar
  • Material: Liquid
  • Drying time: 48-72 hours
  • Coverage area:150sq ft/gallon 

Surface preparation can be a tough task, we know. But, we’re here to present our next product that requires nothing of that sort. The Ready Seal 512 Exterior Sealer makes sure you’ll need no use of a primer. 

With an easy application process, this product ensures the natural and right tone of the wood. And, it does it within 2 weeks of use. Impressive, right? So, let’s check out all the other hidden secrets and features of this premium product- 

Starting off, it provides protection against sunlight and UV rays together. That’s why we chose it as our 3rd in line for the first place. But, it doesn’t stop there. It goes further and provides protection against mildew formation. 

So, you won’t have to worry about mold, mildew, and UV rays at one go. This product will do all the work for your wood against mother nature. 

On the other hand, the sealer makes it easier at providing a natural texture to your wood. However, we’d like to clarify that it won’t bring out the color straight away. It’ll take some time but it’ll ensure the natural color. 

Now, let’s head-on with the application process of this sealer. Here, you’ll have an easy time. Even though it won’t require surface preparation, ensure that you don’t apply it over a sealed surface. 

To begin the proceedings, start using a roller, sprayer, or a brush over the surface. And, just consistently brush over the surface with no-back brushing. 

And, the best part is that you won’t require any bit of thinning or diluting of the product. Just use it as it is. For the re-application, just go at it without using stripping or sanding of the product. So, you have little-to-no maintenance too. 

Another benefit of this product is that you can use it at any type of temperature. But, the temperature does have an effect on the drying time of the product. 

Speaking of the drying time, you’ll need to wait for 48-72 hours before using the surface. And it’ll depend on the temperature as well. 

Other than that, your surface needs to be cleaned from dust in order to ensure the right use of this sealer. Plus, cover the surrounding plants too for a better overall result. 

In the end, the product does bring out a natural texture of wood and protect it from UV rays. The drying time could be a problem if you want to use the surface again. But, with temperature, that can change as well. 

So, keep all these considerations in mind and go for the purchase if the features have impressed you. 

3. TotalBoat Danish Teak Wood Sealer

No products found.

  • Quantity: 0.25-gallon 
  • Type of finish: Oil-based 
  • Color: Natural
  • Material: Liquid
  • Drying time: 8-12 hours
  • Coverage area:  200-250sq ft/gallon (first coat)

If you’re frustrated about the wooden fibers getting damaged by the UV rays then try this product. This wooden sealer from the brand TotalBoat ensures that your wooden furniture is protected from UV rays all the time. 

And, it takes a step further by protecting your wood from fading or wood cracking in the future. So, let’s check out what it comes with- 

Similar to other products in this list, this one protects your wood from harmful UV rays. So, your wood doesn’t get damaged easily when exposed to bright sunlight or UV rays. 

Other than that, this product comes with water-repelling capabilities too. Hence, the surfaces don’t get slippery. Instead, the surfaces will get a touch of moisture as well. So, you’ll repair and beautify the surfaces at the same time. 

But, that isn’t all that this product does. Here, it works against wood fading and wood graying. In fact, it works to prevent them as well. So, it doesn’t matter whether your outdoor or indoor furniture is getting damaged- use this for the results. 

On top of this, the product comes with an anti-fungal formula too. So, after the application, your woods will prevent mold and bacteria formation easily. Plus, it’ll work against mildew formation as well. 

On the other hand, it provides an amazing finish to your wooden furniture. Now, we know that almost all-natural products provide a clear finish. But, this oil-based product takes things to the next level. 

Normally, all oil-based products have a tough time providing clear finishes. But, this product makes sure you get an overall natural beauty from your furniture. 

In fact, the oil in this product brings out the natural golden texture of wood. So, be it mahogany or walnut- this oil brings out a natural texture from all kinds of hardwood. 

Now, let’s take a look at the places of application of this product. You can use them easily on boats and wooden decks. Plus, it can be used on swimming platforms, handrails, cockpits, and on cabinets. 

So, you’ll have a touch of versatility from this product too. Moving on, let’s take a look at the application procedure and drying time of this product. 

And, heads up! The application process is quite easy. Just use a brush made of foam and begin applying it. Here, the product will penetrate the surface within 20-30min only. 

Then, use a rag and clean off excess bits of oil. After you’re done, wait on for 8-12 hours. To apply the second coat, clean using a mineral spirit. 

In the end, you’ll achieve a golden texture out of the wood by applying this product. And, for the bonus part, you’ll protect your wood from UV rays. 

4. Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer

No products found.

  • Quantity: 5-gallon 
  • Type of finish: Oil-based 
  • Color: Natural
  • Material: Liquid
  • Drying time: 24 hours
  • Coverage area:  125-175 sq ft/gallon

It’s done! We’re presenting the last product. This one is from the brand- Storm System. And, this one has a lot of features to talk about. Even though this is in the end, you’ll find quite some benefits. So, let’s begin- 

First things first, it comes with protecting stains that’ll stand against UV rays. And, it even protects the woods from the scorching sunlight as well. 

So, it doesn’t matter whether your wood is in summer or winter, this product has it covered always. 

Now, what this product does is go straight into the wooden grains. Here, it’ll work at protecting the wood from UV rays and also bring out a natural highlight. 

So, this product will bring out the natural color of wood along with added protection. 

Similar to the previous product, your options aren’t limited to this product as well. Here, the product is compatible with Cedar, Pine, Redwood, and Mahogany. Hence, you’ll have your options open at all times. 

In fact, this product works well with even pressure-treated woods, in general. On the other hand, the product isn’t made for your furniture only. You can use it on the fences, siding, and even on wooden decks too. 

Now, let’s move on to the application process. And, you’ll be glad to know that this product can be applied with a foam brush only. So, the application process itself won’t be a hard task. 

But, this product does have a drawback. And, that’s the incredibly slow drying time. To be precise, the product will dry within 24 hours of application. So, yes, you’ll need to wait out a bit. 

In the end, this semi-transparent product makes sure your wood is protected from UV rays and sunlight all the time. And, the application process is easier as well. 

So, give it a thought if the features have made you like this product a bit. 

5. Osmo UV Protection Oil

No products found.

  • Type of finish: Oil-based 
  • Color: Natural 
  • Finish: ‎Oil
  • Material: Liquid
  • Drying time: 24 – 48 hours
  • Coverage area: 150-250 sq ft/gal

Wood protection becomes important as it gets exposed to sunlight and rainfall all the time. On top of that, the presence of ultraviolet rays damages furniture made of wood as it affects the wooden fibers.

But, with this product, you won’t have to worry much about any of it. The osmo uv protection oil comes with maximum protection against UV rays. 

Not only that but this product also works against sunlight as well. At times, the continuous presence of sunlight and UV rays causes wood fading and cracking. 

However, this product penetrates deep into the surface and provides maximum protection all the time. It’s not even about the exterior protection rather the product heals the wooden surface from the inside. 

And, it doesn’t end there only. This UV finish ensures further protection to the wooden surface. But, how? 

Well, the UV finish has transparent oxides in them. As a result, the wooden surface is guarded against further ultraviolet rays damage in the future. 

Now, onto the process of application. Similar to all the products, this one can be applied easily with a paintbrush. Use a firm front and backstroke to ensure the consistent texture of this finish over the surface. 

In the end, the finish you’ll get will be a matte finish. So, the surface won’t remain slippery for long. To be precise, the surface will be dried to touch within 24-48 hours. But, it’ll depend on the humidity and temperature to some extent. 

Even though the product has an oil-based finish, it can be cleaned easily. Just use mineral spirits and you’ll be done eventually. Because of the oil finish and the tint base, the product provides semi-transparent shades. 

In accordance with that, this product comes with colorants stored within. As a result, your wooden surfaces will have a natural yet rich wood tone to them. So, it’ll look great when it comes to aesthetics. 

On the other hand, this 5-gallon product is more than enough to cover a fair enough distance. To be precise, it’ll cover 150-250 sq ft/gal. 

To summarize, this product is enough to provide maximum protection against mother nature. And, it’ll heal the wooden surface from the inside. So, if you’ve loved it, go for the purchase and save your woods for a day. 

What Is UV Finish For Wood?

As we’ve shown all the UV finish products in the review section, you might want to know what’s even all this hype about? And, for some of the few who don’t even know what a UV finish is, we got you covered. 

So, let’s begin with the informal definition about the entire thing- 

Basically, UV finish for wood is curing of wood against UV-rays and its effects. Normally, exposure to UV-rays isn’t good for the wooden surface. It even destroys the wooden fibers, to some extent. 

So, the UV-finish works at providing a protective layer over the wooden surfaces. By doing this, it’ll ensure that your wooden surfaces are protected against harmful UV rays. 

As a result of these finishes, the wooden surfaces will live longer and will be more durable. 

Penetrating Oil Finish Vs UV Cured Wood Finish

There are other products in the market that contribute to the healing of wood cracking. That’s not all. These products provide a glossy finish to the surface and provide some bit of protection. 

But, are these products good against UV rays? Well, UV-cured wood finish has another bit of advantage. So, let’s look into it, shall we? 

1. Penetrating Oil Finish

Generally, penetrating oil finish works at absorbing inside the woods. Here, the oils could be natural or traditional oils. An example of this could be Tung Oil. 

These oils can dry when exposed to air only. So, you need to regularly keep an eye on them, or else the floor might lose the seal. As a result, it can stain over time. 

Apart from this, the finish causes the floors to look natural all the time and they get covered with plastic. Plus, they’re even easier at repairing and you can refresh them. 

In the end, you’ll get an overall natural look and have a nice finish to the wood. But, they’ll be more exposed to any kind of physical damage.

No products found.

2. UV Cured Finish

Urethane or UV-Cured finish is the finish for wooden flooring. By the name, you might assume it’s applied and finished inside the factory. Right after finishing this process, the overall surface is hardened using chemical reactions. 

And, this reaction is caused by a UV light. Similar to the other finishes, the UV-urethane finish creates a barrier between wood and objects above it. As a result, it protects the wood from any sort of damages. 

By providing these finishes, you’ll get durable and hard wooden surfaces all the time. Plus, the barrier at the top will protect the wood against damage. And, the best part is that you won’t need a topcoat after installing this. 

However, it doesn’t provide any bit of a natural glow after the finish. Here, you’ll get more of an artificial finish that looks plastic. Plus, it can even show scratches. 

How To Apply For UV Protection On Wood?

From the list, you’ve already seen the products on our list. Well, we did clear out some of the installation processes of those products in the overview section. 

But, there are still things left to be discussed. So, we’re here with an overall procedure of the application process. Take notes as you’ll need to follow them step-by-step. 

Only then, you can effectively apply UV protection on the wood without any problem. So let’s begin the journey- 

Planning and Collecting Tools 

First things first, you’ll need to prepare the surface for a bit. After that, you’ll need to take care of the tools situation as well. So, where to begin? First off, decide the project you’re going to work on. 

If you’re going for a heavier project, use more protection. Also, plan the type of finish you want and what’s right for you beforehand. As the finish can be applied with a paintbrush, collect it from a local store. 

Then, wear gloves and masks and begin the planning. Now, as you’ve taken the precautionary measures and handled the tools needed, let’s begin:

Step 1: Stir The Finish 

Before even beginning the step-step process, it’s better to stir the finish that you’re going to use. Here, you’ll need to mix all of the materials that might have settled in the can’s bottom.

That’s why you’ll need to stir properly. But, never shake the entire can as it’ll create bubbles in the finish at times. 

Step 2: Apply Thinner Coats

It’s important in applying thinner coats all the time. But, why? Well, this is because thicker coats normally take a bit of time to settle down. Plus, they could be uneven as well and attract a bit of dust.   

Step 3: Tip Each Section Off

At times, bubbles and brush marks can take place easily. For this reason, it’s important to just use 45-degree angles and run bristles lightly. Here, run these bristles lightly over the wood’s length. 

Step 4: Sand The Surface

Well, the last step is sanding the entire surface. However, you’ll need to follow a thing or two before doing that. Here, sand the smaller areas first. And, if the entire thing starts “balling up” then you’ll need to stop immediately.

This means the surface isn’t that dry, to begin with. So, start again in half an hour.

Advantages Of UV Wood Finishes

We’re almost at the end of this guide. But, before going away, we’d like to break down the advantages you’ll get from these UV wooden finishes. So, without wasting any more time, let’s break it down:

  • Will offer added protection against harmful UV-rays
  • Heals the wooden fibers from the inside
  • Provides a natural glow and greater appearance of the wood
  • Makes the wooden surface more durable and strong
  • UV finishes have a low VOC that means it’s safe for the environment
  • Promotes higher longevity of the wood

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to protect the wood from UV rays? 

Yes, you can easily protect the wood from UV rays. By applying the sealant over your furniture, you can create a barrier from the UV rays. And it’ll protect the wood from the rays. 

Which are the best ways in protecting wood outdoors? 

Using tung oil can be a great solution in protecting woods outdoors. Plus, you can varnish and seal the wood. Lastly, use a waterproofing sealant to provide finishing touches.

Does UV damage wood fibers? 

Yes, UV radiation damages wooden fibers to some extent. If left under direct radiation from the UV rays, it’ll cause wood cracking. 

Which one is the clearest coat for wood? 

Polyurethane is the best clear coat for wood. And, it protects the wood from the sun and UV rays easily. 

Verdict

Well, that’s our take for this review guide. And, we haven’t left anything behind. In order for you to understand the topic, we’ve even included the pre-buying info points. 

Hopefully, that’ll make things more clear and more understandable. So, you might go ahead and buy the best UV protection for wood from the review list. But, do note down their features as it’ll make things easier. 

So, go ahead and comment on your experiences with the products. Good Luck!

Kevin Smith
Latest posts by Kevin Smith (see all)
Related posts:
  • Does Oak Stain Well? (Mysteries Resolved)
  • Can You Mix Satin And Gloss Polyurethane? (4 Facts to Know!)
  • How To Fix Wood Stain Mistakes? (Ways to Follow)

    • Leave a Comment

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *