Paints
Best Waterproof Paints For Wood
11 Best Waterproof Paint For Wood
As spring turns into summer, homeowners look to improve their homes, fences, decks and other outdoor structures.
Use the best waterproof wood paint to protect your investment against the elements.
You’re in luck because I have compiled a comprehensive list of the top water-sealing wood paints available today. I will also give you tips on how to apply the paint and keep it looking good.
What is the best paint for waterproofing wood?
Waterproof Paint Types
You can choose from a variety of waterproof paints, including
- Acrylic paint This water-based acrylic paint is easy to clean and quick drying. It can be applied to a variety of surfaces including wood, metal, and concrete. You may wonder why paint dries darker . This is a temporary darkening of the color and will lighten once the paint has fully cured.
- Oil Based Paint This type of paint has a higher durability than acrylic and is resistant against water and other environmental elements. This paint can be used on wood, metal and masonry surfaces.
- Epoxy Paint : Epoxy paint, a two-part epoxy system, creates a durable and waterproof surface. This paint is used for floors, counters, and other surfaces which need to be durable.
- Rubber Paint is a flexible and waterproof coating that can be used on a variety of surfaces including decks, roofs and concrete surfaces.
- Polyurethane paint is a waterproof, durable paint that resists chemicals and abrasion. This paint is most commonly used for metal surfaces but it can be used also on wood or concrete.
What is the Best Waterproofing Paint for Wood?
In assembling this list of best weatherproof wood paint, I only looked at high-quality products which can withstand harsh conditions.
We tested paints that are UV-protected, resistant to mold and mildew, and have a long-lasting durability.
Read about: The Woodworking Symbol of Feet and Inches explained
Wolman 360349 Outdoor Furniture Paint - Best Overall Outdoor Wood Furniture
Wolman Outdoor Furniture Paint is a water-based paint that does wonders for exterior wood.
It is a great way to protect wooden swings, picnic tables and playsets. They are protected from the harsh elements such as rain and snow.
The exterior paint also protects my deck and outdoor furniture from rot and mold.
It’s also four times thicker and provides solid coverage.
It dries in 2 to 4 hours despite being viscous.
One quart of paint covers approximately 20 square feet. For best results, apply two coats.
Wait 24 hours before applying the second layer to ensure the first coat has dried completely.
It is perfect for any hardwood because it resists weathering, scuffing and discoloration.
Avoid applying it to concrete, composite decking or metal surfaces.
Read also: The 10 Best Deck Stains of 2023
The Good
- Provides excellent coverage
- Protects from sun, water damage and UltraViolet
- Spread and use easily
- The color is rich and deep.
What could be improved
- It doesn’t provide enough protection on high traffic surfaces
- Color choice is limited
Best eco-friendly waterproof outdoor wood paint – RTG Deck Porch & Patio Anti Slip Paint
RTG Deck, Porch and Patio Paint is perfect for areas with high foot traffic.
This water-based, durable paint will protect your deck, porch and patio from the elements, while still maintaining its appearance.
The product is resistant to rain, snow and sun.
This waterproof paint is also anti-slip, which means it will keep you on your feet or paws even if the surface is slippery.
It doesn’t flake or peel off when it dries. RTG Deck Porch and Patio is the paint of choice for decks and wooden ramps.
It dries quickly, and leaves a beautiful finish to your outdoor space.
The product has a low odor and low volatile organic compounds (VOC).
Its water-based formulation allows it to be applied directly on surfaces that have been properly prepared, without the need for priming. It is easy to clean the product with soap and warm water.
The four neutral colors are: Sand, Light Grey (light grey), Clear/Amber, and White.
The wide variety of colors available allows you to choose a color that compliments the exterior of your house.
What I liked most
- Waterproof
- Protects against physical wear
- Available in a variety of colors
- Easy Application
- Eco-friendly
What could be improved
- Small Coverage
- Costly
Best Multi-Surface Paint - FolkArt Outdoor Paint
Water-based and nontoxic, it’s perfect for painting porous surfaces such as wood.
This formula is extremely durable and can be used in rain, snow, or sun. I did not need to seal the surface.
The finish was cured and dried quickly. It gave me a gorgeous gloss finish.
I painted wood, plaster and ceramic surfaces, even though it is not recommended for areas with high foot traffic.
With soap and water, cleaning up is easy.
I degreased the surface before applying paint.
I then waited at least two hours before painting the wood. The final result was well worth the time.
This waterproof paint dried very quickly, with one coat taking only about 2 to 3 hours.
This product was not disappointed, despite its lower price than that of other outdoor furniture paints.
The Good
- When wet, wipes easily
- Water protection offers protection from water
- Fair price
- The color is resistant to fading
What could be improved
- It doesn’t provide enough protection
- High traffic areas are not recommended
Majic Paints 8 0048-1 Latex Flat Barn & Fence Paint - Best Fast drying paint
Magic Paints offers the best protection against rain and sun.
This barn paint has a great coverage up to 250 square feet per gallon and is fade resistant.
With a dry time of only 30 minutes, my projects can be completed quickly and efficiently.
If you are a DIY enthusiast, like myself, I suggest starting your project as early as possible to make sure you finish it before sunset.
This will allow your project to dry out without worrying about bugs.
This product is resistant to weather and fading, but it should not be used on roofs or floors.
It’s perfect for fencing, barns and silos.
It’s a paint I keep in my toolkit because it is so versatile.
What I liked most
- Waterproof
- Quite durable
- Vibrant color
- Enjoy the coverage
- Spreading Easy
- Fast dry-time
What could be improved
- Paint is thin
- Costly
- It does not provide the best protection against physical damage
KILZ 10211 Exterior Paint for Siding, Fences, and Barns is the Best Value.
Killz paints are the best for painting my house. They have waterproof and anti-microbial paints that are perfect for many home applications.
This oil-and-water formula is medium viscosity and can be applied with a paintbrush or roller.
Its unique formula also offers outstanding adhesion and longevity.
Kilz Exterior Siding and Fence Paint is resistant to peeling, blistering and cracking due to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
The exterior structure is also protected from the elements and enhanced with its beauty.
It can be used on vertical and weathered wood surfaces, such as shakes, siding, shingles, fences, plywood and laminates. It prevents mold, mildew and wear.
It is easy to apply the paint. You just need to clean the surface and sand it down before you start.
It is best to wait at least 6-8 hours for the waterproof formula to dry before applying a second layer. While the paint is wet, it’s easy to clean with soap and warm water.
This product is great for barns and sheds because it’s affordable and safe for livestock. This is the best waterproof paint on any budget.
What I liked most
- Affordable price
- Long-lasting
- Self-priming formula
- Provides protection against the sun, rain and snow
- Provides excellent coverage
The Not So Good
- Long application process
- Needs multiple coats
- Paint shrinks after drying
KILZ Low Lustre Enamel Porch and Patio Latex Paint is the best paint for fading resistance.
This latex-based, paint is specially designed to resist fading, peeling and cracking.
You can apply it to painted or primed surfaces such as trim, trellises and siding. It’s also thick and easy-to-apply with a roller or brush.
This 100% acrylic latex creates a waterproof and mildew-resistant finish that protects against UV rays and rain.
Use the paint only for home applications. It may not be suitable for surfaces that are exposed to automobile tires. To get the best results, you should also know what to do to prepare wood before painting with acrylic paint.
It only comes in gray, which means I can’t get as creative with my paint job.
This product is a great value, especially for its low price and high protection.
For optimal results, wait up to 24 hours to expose the surface to physical activity.
What I liked most
- Water resistant
- Protects against physical damage
- Fade-resistant
- Affordable price
What could be improved
- It takes a while for the paint to dry completely
- The forms drip easily
- Exists only in one color
Best Waterproof Paint in a Variety of Colors - Diamond Brite paint
Diamond Brite offers the widest range of colors for waterproofing wood spray paint.
This oil-based paint is my favorite because it provides professional quality and an Alkyd finish to various surfaces.
This product forms a protective gloss against water and abrasion, making it perfect for the high traffic on my patio.
Its exceptional stain-removal capabilities have also impressed me. It comes in 12 different colors so I can customize my projects to suit my tastes.
Mix the paint with a stir stick or paddle before using it for best results.
The first coat should dry in 10-12 hours and the second coat 24 hours.
To ensure that the finish adheres properly, I clean and prepare the surface before applying the finish.
This way I won’t need to worry about recoating it until it is completely dry.
This American-made waterproof painting is a fantastic product and has been a good investment for me.
The Good
- Waterproof
- Protects surfaces from physical wear
- It provides great coverage
- Available in many colors
The Not So Good
- Compare to other brands, this product fades easily
- Long drying time
- Easy to form drips
TotalTread non-skid deck paint - TotalBoat-409322
TotalBoat TotalTread NonSkid Deck paint offers me a great deal of versatility.
This paint can be used for a variety of projects, from enhancing the flooring on my boat to refreshing my exterior furniture.
The durable polyurethane coating can be used on surfaces other than wood. It can be applied to primed metal, aluminum, fiberglass and ceramic surfaces.
This paint is able to cover up to 300 square foot per gallon with its double-coverage technology. This is a good rule of thumb to use when determining the number of square feet that 5 gallons paint covers.
It also has a less abrasive texture compared to other waterproof painters.
It’s also low-odor, eco-friendly and I feel good using it.
It’s also easy to clean – just use soap and water. The finish is easy to clean with just soap and water.
It’s available in a variety of colors that match topsides, non-skid patterns and other existing paints, including Kingston Gray, Sand Beige and Light Gray.
The Good
- Waterproof
- Coverage is extensive
- Eco-friendly
- Good traction
- Clean up is easy
- Durable
The Not So Good
- When applied to wood surfaces, the paint requires sanding
- Long dry time
Eco Advance Wood Siloxane - Best for Mold and Mildew Prevention
It’s not surprising that Eco Advance waterproof paint made the list. Eco is known for its high-quality products that go above and beyond the traditional paints.
This is the perfect finish for those who want a quick and even application.
With a garden sprayer I can easily cover large surfaces and items. Before painting, shake the contents of your can to ensure an even spray.
This water-based formula can be used on any outdoor piece, as it adheres easily to a variety of materials, including wood, metal, ceramic, and plastic.
It not only gives a smooth surface, but also protects from water damage, stains and mildew.
It dries fast, so it’s easy to fix any spots that need some touch-ups. With just one coat, I get the coverage I want.
This waterproofer is also non-toxic, non-flammable and emits a mild odor.
It gives a professional look to new wood, perfect for decking and plywood. Also great for fences, siding, shingles, and plywood.
What I liked most
- Waterproof
- Work on multiple surfaces
- Fast Dry Time
- Easy Application
The Not So Good
- Needs multiple coats
- The surface is not durable enough for high traffic areas
Best outdoor wood waterproof paint - Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint, Gloss White
Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint has quickly become my favorite option for any painting project.
This oil-based gloss paint has a UV-resistant finish and doesn’t easily chip. Superior protection from the elements, especially for surfaces that are exposed to seawater.
This finish can be used on many surfaces including wood, metal, fiberglass, and ceramics.
It is easy to apply and clean up the low-odor paint. I only need mild soap and a washcloth for any mess before it dries.
It’s also a great product for beginners and professionals alike, with its smooth finish and superior gloss retention.
This waterproof paint is also a great value. This waterproof paint is not only affordable, but it also covers up to 100 square foot per coat.
I can also recoat my surface in just 1-2 hours after it has dried.
Overall, Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint is a great product with many benefits. It is perfect for projects above waterline, and provides a long-lasting, stunning finish.
The Good
- The best exterior waterproof paint
- The best value for money
- Fast Dry Time
The Not So Good
- Requires prior priming
- Easy to peel and chip
Zinsser & Co Watertite Paint is both an exterior paint and primer in one.
Recently, I used Zinsser & Co. 270267 Watertite Paint for a wooden project.
This premium exterior wood finish is manufactured in the US and offers an easy, seamless application.
The latex formula provides a matte finish that is even and hides the blemishes of novice paint jobs.
It is incredibly easy-to-use and can be used on wood, metals, stoneworks, cement, masonry, and vinyl siding.
This exterior wood paint dries in approximately 2-3 hours per coat.
It is also helpful to sand down any shiny surfaces before applying the finish.
This exterior waterproof paint can withstand up to 20 PSI water pressure. It comes with a 15 year waterproofing warranty, which makes it ideal for outdoor applications.
The paint is self-priming, but I prefer to use a primer first. This is especially true when working with wood that’s still raw.
This product is great for long-lasting, beautiful results. This product is a great way of giving old projects a new lease on life without having to remove the old paint.
The Good
- Waterproof
- Doesn’t require prior priming
- Quality coverage
- Simple to use
The Not So Good
- Long dry time
- It doesn’t provide the best protection
Compare the best waterproofing paint for wood
How to choose the best waterproof wood paint
There are many brands of waterproof paint on the market, making it difficult to choose the right one. Consider the following factors when choosing the best exterior wood paint.
1. Durability
Durability is the measure of how well a finish protects and maintains its exterior. This includes protection against the following:
Water damage
Wood exposed to rain and snow will rot and mold. When choosing paint, make sure it has high waterproofing abilities.
I recommend KILZ Low Lustre Enamel Porch and Patio Latex Floor paint because it is 100% latex acrylic. It creates a waterproof layer that will last.
UV radiation
Due to UV radiation, prolonged exposure to the sun can cause outdoor projects to fade quickly. Choose a paint that will maintain its color after prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Wearables
Decks and patios, which are outdoor woodwork projects, are susceptible to fading, scratching and scuffing. So. You need a latex paint with a high-traffic protection layer.
A gallon of waterproofing paint, for example, may cover only 200 square feet on a rough surface. However, it could cover 400 square feet on a non-porous, smooth surface.
2. Use
Consider the type of material that you will be working on when choosing the right paint. While most woodworkers use wood paint, it may be that you want a paint that can work on other surfaces.
Paint for decks and concrete floors may be different. Decks have a lot of foot traffic and need a good quality floor paint that can withstand the traffic.
It is important to consider the level of exposure, frequency of use and expected wear. The right waterproof paint will provide the best protection and durability.
FolkArt outdoor paint is highly recommended as it adheres to wood, plastics, metals, and concrete surfaces.
3. Dry time
Allow the paint to dry completely between coats before exposing it to water or other physical stress. Some paints dry and cure more quickly than others.
FolkArt Outdoor Paint will be perfect for your project if you live in an area where the weather is unpredictable. It dries within an hour. It is therefore less likely to damage, scratch, or dinge while drying.
Will outdoor paint inside work if you want to use it for interior purposes? Find out!
4. Coverage
The amount of waterproof paint and type of paint required can be affected by the size of the surface.
Measure the area of the surface to determine the amount of paint needed.
The majority of waterproof paints offer an estimate coverage per gallon. This will help you determine the number of gallons needed to cover your entire surface.
Darker colors or a data-id=”https://woodworkingclarity.com/best-black-paint for_wood_furniture/” data type=”URL” href=”https://woodworkingclarity.com/best_black_paint_for_wood_furniture/”>black wood furniture paint/a> may require more coats of paint to achieve the desired coverage. Darker colors, such as black furniture paint, may require more paint to achieve desired coverage.
You should be aware that the coverage of different paints varies. Epoxy and polyurethane may provide a greater coverage than acrylic or oil-based.
Color and Appearance
Darker colors absorb more heat, causing the wood to expand or contract. This can lead to peeling and cracking.
The lighter colors may be less durable, and they may fade faster in the sunlight.
Depending on the color, you may need to apply more paint in order to achieve desired saturation and coverage.
Consider the type of wood, the environment and the intended use when choosing a color. A bold, bright colour may be suitable for a playset for children, but a wood-toned color would work better for a pergola or deck.
Finish Sheen
The sheen finish of waterproof wood paint affects the appearance, durability and maintenance. Here are some common types of sheens and their uses:
High-Gloss This finish has a high sheen and is highly reflective. It provides a smooth surface with gleaming shine. This finish is easy to maintain and durable, making it a popular choice for outdoor surfaces that are exposed to harsh weather conditions. High gloss finishes may not be appropriate for all surfaces, as they can highlight imperfections and blemishes.
Semi Gloss This finish sheen offers a slightly more subdued look than high gloss. Semi-gloss is an excellent choice for surfaces which require shine, but not quite as much as high gloss. This includes exterior doors, window trim and shutters.
Satin : The satin finish is less glossy than semi-gloss and high gloss. It has a subtle, softer sheen, which is ideal for decks and fences. A satin finish is less likely to show scratches and imperfections compared to a high gloss.
Read also: How Long Does Wood Glue Take To Dry?
VOCs
VOCs are volatile organic compounds that can cause harm to the environment and health. The amount of VOCs present in waterproof paint can have a variety of effects on the type of wood paint that is chosen.
According to local or national regulations you may need to use a paint that is low or zero VOC.
Paints with higher VOC may provide better adhesion, and longer lasting protection. Low-VOC products may be less durable, but they are safer and eco-friendly.
Recommended Painting Process
The steps below will ensure a smooth paint process and a pleasing finish. Here’s on how to waterproof wooden surfaces.
Cleaning the wood
Remove all debris such as old paint and dirt before you do anything else. For best results, use a wire brush or power washer.
Sand the wood
Sand bare wood with sandpaper to create a smooth finish. Use a rag to remove the dust and then add a primer that will block stains before painting.
Use a residue-free cleaner on painted wood and sand it to make the primer adhere better.
Prime the wood
If your paint is not self-priming, like the KILZ 10211 Exterior Siding Fence and Barn Paint apply a primer. Priming allows the paint to adhere easily, which reduces the number of coats required.
Paint and seal wood
Apply your exterior paint using a roller or brush. Avoid drips and aim for a uniform coat.
You may need to wait a certain amount of time depending on the type of paint you use. Seal the wood with polyurethane or lacquer.
Read: Can You Paint Over Polyurethane?
Waterproof furniture paint has many benefits.
Waterproof paints are great for preventing rot, and they also protect against water damage. These include:
- Breathable – Waterproof paints should be equipped with a membrane that allows for air exchange to avoid dampness or water pressure building up within the substrate.
- Versatile – The majority of waterproof paints are suitable for a variety of surfaces, including masonry, metals, bricks, and cement.
- Work in both directions – They prevent moisture and steam from entering the room and damaging the painted surfaces.
If you’re interested, you can return paint once purchased if you buy it from Home Depot, Lowes, or Walmart.
FAQs
What is the best waterproof paint for wood?
Look no further than Wolman360349 Outdoor Furniture Paint. This paint provides long-lasting protection for outdoor furniture. You can apply it easily, and your furniture will look great in no-time. The beautiful finish will also last for many years without chipping or fading. Order your paint now!
How long does waterproof wood paint take to dry?
Different waterproof paints will dry at a different rate. Weather, humidity and outdoor temperatures can also affect drying. Thinner paints tend to dry faster than heavier ones.
Why waterproof your wood exterior surface?
Waterproofing wood helps to preserve its natural beauty and strength. Waterproofing your wood exterior helps to prevent water absorption, which can lead to rot and decay.
How long does it take for waterproof paint to be applied on wood furniture?
Even in extreme weather conditions, waterproof paint will protect the wood. Recoat every two years is a good rule of thumb. This will still depend on the type of wood, paint and environment.
What to avoid when waterproofing wood?
- Paints with chalk-based pigments While chalk-based colors are perfect for adding a vintage look to wooden furniture, they’re not the best choice for waterproofing. These paints are prone to absorbing moisture and causing the wood to warp over time. Here’s the best brush for applying chalk paint to wood, and how to clean a chalk paint brush.
- Flat or matte paints: Flat or matte paints are smooth and non-reflective. They can look beautiful on walls but they’re not recommended to waterproof wood. These paints absorb moisture and can cause mold, mildew, warping, or rotting.
- Watercolor Paints Watercolors are pigments in water, not water-resistant. These paints are commonly used in art and design projects, and they can be easily washed off or smudged by water.
- Paints Tempera: The paints Tempera are made from a mixture of pigments, binder and water. They can be resistant to water when they are dry but they do not work well for prolonged exposure.
- Paints for posters: Similar to tempera, but usually thicker and brighter. They are not waterproof and can be easily washed off with water.
The Best Waterproof Wood Paint
You need a paint that is not only waterproof but also resistant to wear. Wolman360349 Outdoor Furniture paint is great for outdoor wooden furniture such as the Best Paint for Picnic Tables.
This toxin-free, eco-friendly paint is specially formulated for a durable UV- and water-resistant finish. This option will preserve outdoor wood furniture over several years.
