Gardening

Best Wood Preserver: Protect & Prolong the Life of Your Timber

Written by Dale RichardsonUpdated: July 2, 2024

We may earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article

Looking for the best wood preserver? You've come to the right place! I've got years of practical experience, and I'm eager to share my knowledge, tips, and personal opinions on how to choose the perfect product for your needs. But why are wood preservers so important? Let's dive right in!

Here is a glance at the best Wood Preservers before we review them in depth further down:

The Current Best Wood Preservers In 2024

1. Everbuild Lumberjack Wood Preserver Clear 5L

Overall rating (4.5)

Scored based on 1468 reviews

Easy to use (4.6)

Style (4.5)

Value for money (4.2)

Water resistance (3.9)

Consideration Points:

Type of Wood: Everbuild Lumberjack Wood Preserver Clear is suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods, making it a versatile choice for various wood types.

Active Ingredients: This product features a high-performance formula with active ingredients designed to provide long-lasting protection against rot, decay, and wood-boring insects.

Colour and Finish:Β The clear finish allows the natural beauty of the wood grain to show through, making it perfect for those who prefer an unobtrusive and natural look.

Application Method: Everbuild Lumberjack Wood Preserver Clear can be applied using either a brush or spray, offering flexibility and ease of use for different project sizes.

Drying Time and Re-coat Intervals:Β The drying time for this product can take few hours depending on the wood and weather conditions, which might be inconvenient for some users who want a quicker drying solution.

Product Summary:

Everbuild Lumberjack Wood Preserver Clear 5L is a high-performance option for protecting your woodwork. This product is suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods, ensuring a wide range of applications. The formula contains active ingredients that provide long-lasting protection against rot, decay, and wood-boring insects.

The clear finish of this preserver showcases the natural beauty of the wood grain, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more natural look. Additionally, the product can be applied using a brush or spray, providing flexibility and ease of use for different project sizes.

One potential drawback is the drying time, which can take up few hours depending on the wood and weather conditions. This might be a drawback for users looking for a quicker drying solution. However, the overall performance and effectiveness of Everbuild Lumberjack Wood Preserver Clear make it a solid choice for your wood preservation needs.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"Great value and quality, I will buy again."

"Ideal for preserving new and existing wood - prevents and stops existing rot. It is not waterproof, so I then use a coat of Barrettine Wood Protective Treatment 5L if I want to keep a clear finish rather than painting or staining. Consider Everbuild Triple Action Wood Treatment if you also need to prevent woodworm."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 26 August 2023

"5.0 out of 5 stars Second time of use"

"Used this before and happy to purchase again would always recommend"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§ on 6 May 2023

"Second time of use"

"Used this before and happy to purchase again would always recommend"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 May 2023

Where to buy Everbuild Lumberjack Wood Preserver Clear 5L?

2. Ronseal Total Wood Preserver

Overall rating (4.6)

Scored based on 515 reviews

Easy to use (4.7)

Value for money (4.5)

Style (4.1)

Consideration Points:

Type of Wood: Ronseal Total Wood Preserver is suitable for all types of wood, making it a versatile choice for various wooden structures.

Active Ingredients: The water-based preservatives in this product offer effective protection against rot, decay, and insect attacks.

Colour and Finish: With a clear finish, this wood preserver allows the natural beauty of the wood to shine through while providing protection.

Application Method: The application method for Ronseal Total Wood Preserver is limited to brush application, which may be less convenient for some users compared to products that offer multiple application options.

Drying Time and Re-coat Intervals: The drying time and re-coat interval for this product are both 24 hours, allowing for relatively quick completion of your project.

Product Summary:

Ronseal Total Wood Preserver is a versatile solution for protecting all types of wood. The water-based preservatives in this product effectively protect against rot, decay, and insect attacks, ensuring the longevity of your wooden structures.

The clear finish of Ronseal Total Wood Preserver allows the natural beauty of the wood to show through while still offering protection. However, the application method is limited to brush application, which may be less convenient for some users compared to products that offer multiple application options.

With a drying time and re-coat interval of 24 hours, this wood preserver allows for relatively quick completion of your project. Overall, Ronseal Total Wood Preserver is a solid choice for those looking to protect and enhance the natural beauty of their wooden structures.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"Do not let drip on grass will dis colour"

"Have used this product before on fences Does good job"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 September 2023

"Enhances the natural wood colour and grain."

"Treating the garden bench."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 24 August 2023

"Good for wood"

"I have now used two full cans and started on a third over a year of owning a new shed. In common with most other wood preservatives it is not cheap, but none of the others are lower in price, so you get what you pay for. It works very well but you should put on three coats. Luckily it's a small shed!"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 30 July 2023

3. Cuprinol 5L Wood Preserver Clear

Overall rating (4.6)

Scored based on 656 reviews

Easy to use (4.8)

Value for money (4.3)

Consideration Points:

Type of Wood: Cuprinol Wood Preserver is suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods, making it a versatile choice for various wood types.

Active Ingredients: This product contains an advanced formula with active ingredients that effectively protect wood against rot, decay, and wood-boring insects.

Colour and Finish: The clear finish allows the natural beauty of the wood grain to show through, making it perfect for those who prefer an unobtrusive and natural look.

Application Method: Cuprinol Wood Preserver can be applied using either a brush or spray, offering flexibility and ease of use for different project sizes.

Drying Time and Re-coat Intervals: The drying time for this product can take few hour depending on the wood and weather conditions, which might be inconvenient for some users who want a quicker drying solution.

Product Summary:

Cuprinol 5L Wood Preserver Clear is a reliable and versatile option when it comes to protecting your woodwork. This product is suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods, ensuring you have a broad range of applications. The active ingredients within its advanced formula provide effective protection against rot, decay, and wood-boring insects.

The clear finish of this preserver showcases the natural beauty of the wood grain, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more natural look. Additionally, the product can be applied using a brush or spray, providing flexibility and ease of use for different project sizes.

One potential downside is the drying time, which can take few hours depending on the wood and weather conditions. This might be a drawback for users looking for a quicker drying solution. However, the overall performance and versatility of Cuprinol 5L Wood Preserver Clear make it a solid choice for your wood preservation needs.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"Very effective"

"I've been treating some wany edge barn walls - first time since we moved here 8 years ago so probably in dire need! I noticed when it rained that the water just ran off or sat on the surface in droplets, like it does on a freshly polished car. I'm delighted and am confident it will prolong the life of the wood."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 7 September 2023

"Used as base for new fence"

"Effective covering as a base before painting new fence."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 August 2023

"4.0 out of 5 stars Great product"

"The only disappointment is that its hard to apply from the tin.It needs to be decanted into another vessel."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§ on 26 October 2022

Where to buy Cuprinol 5L Wood Preserver Clear?

4. Barrettine Protective Wood Treatment

Overall rating (4.6)

Scored based on 267 reviews

Water resistance (4.9)

Easy to use (4.7)

Durability (4.6)

Value for money (4.6)

Longevity (4.5)

Consideration Points:

Type of Wood: Barrettine Protective Wood Treatment is specifically designed for rough sawn timber, offering excellent protection and coverage for this type of wood.

Active Ingredients: The solvent-based preservatives in this product provide long-lasting protection against mould, fungi, and insects.

Colour and Finish: The dark brown colour and finish of this wood treatment creates a rich and natural look for your fences and other wooden structures.

Application Method: Barrettine Protective Wood Treatment can be applied using a brush, spray, or roller, offering flexibility and convenience for your DIY projects.

Drying Time and Re-coat Intervals: The drying time of few hours and re-coat interval of 48 hours are slightly longer than some other wood treatments, which may require more patience during the application process.

Product Summary:

Barrettine Protective Wood Treatment is a high-quality product designed to protect rough sawn timber. The solvent-based preservatives in this treatment offer long-lasting protection against mould, fungi, and insects, ensuring that your wooden structures remain in good condition.

The dark brown colour and finish of this wood treatment create a rich and natural look, enhancing the appearance of your fences and other wooden structures. With multiple application methods available, including brush, spray, or roller, this product is both convenient and versatile for your DIY projects.

However, the drying time of few hours and re-coat interval of 48 hours may require more patience during the application process compared to some other wood treatments. Overall, Barrettine Protective Wood Treatment is a reliable and effective solution for protecting and enhancing the appearance of your rough sawn timber structures.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"water resistant"

"Water resistant. Delivery charges very high."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 September 2023

"Soaks into the wood great"

"Great for painting on the wooden slats on the outside of our house, make sure you cover everything though as it a pretty thin consistency and drips everywhere lol"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 25 August 2023

"Easy to apply dried quick great results"

"This product is great easy to use pour into pressure sprayer easy to apply soaks in well to wood dries quickly great finish"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 August 2023

Where to buy Barrettine Protective Wood Treatment?

5. Roxil Wood Protection Liquid 5L

Overall rating (4.5)

Scored based on 4402 reviews

Easy to use (4.6)

Style (4.5)

Water resistance (4.3)

Sheerness (4.3)

Value for money (4.2)

Durability (4)

Consideration Points:

Type of Wood: Roxil Wood Protection Liquid is compatible with both softwoods and hardwoods, making it a versatile choice for various wood types.

Active Ingredients: This product features a unique silicone emulsion that creates a breathable barrier, protecting wood from weathering, decay, and mould growth.

Colour and Finish: The clear finish allows the natural beauty of the wood grain to show through, making it perfect for those who prefer an unobtrusive and natural look.

Application Method: Roxil Wood Protection Liquid can be applied using either a brush or spray, offering flexibility and ease of use for different project sizes.

Drying Time and Re-coat Intervals: The drying time for this product can take up to few hours depending on the wood and weather conditions, which might be inconvenient for some users who want a quicker drying solution.

Product Summary:

Roxil Wood Protection Liquid 5L is a reliable and versatile option for protecting your woodwork. This product is suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods, ensuring a wide range of applications. The unique silicone emulsion formula creates a breathable barrier that shields the wood from weathering, decay, and mould growth.

The clear finish of this preserver showcases the natural beauty of the wood grain, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more natural look. Additionally, the product can be applied using a brush or spray, providing flexibility and ease of use for different project sizes.

One potential downside is the drying time, which can take up to few hours depending on the wood and weather conditions. This might be a drawback for users looking for a quicker drying solution. However, the overall performance and versatility of Roxil Wood Protection Liquid 3L make it a solid choice for your wood preservation needs.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"Preserve wood"

"Have given four stars as I don't know how long it will preserve the treated wood, it says ten years. It was delivered as promised which was good service and we'll packaged. Easy to apply with a paint brush with a milky colour that dries clear on the treated wood which was for a shed roof but then covered with roofing felt. Good test now as it hasn't stopped raining, will use a test piece and leave to the elements and see for myself."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 September 2023

"Just the job"

"Sealed my deck perfect, water beads up on it now and can either brush sponge or spray"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 19 September 2023

"Great product"

"Does what it says on the tub."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 September 2023

Where to buy Roxil Wood Protection Liquid 5L?

6. Everbuild Lumberjack Triple Action Wood Treatment

Overall rating (4.5)

Scored based on 1442 reviews

Easy to use (4.7)

Easy to clean (4.6)

Value for money (4.6)

Style (4.4)

Consideration Points:

Type of Wood:Β Everbuild Lumberjack Triple Action Wood Treatment is suitable for all types of wood, making it a versatile option for various wooden structures.

Active Ingredients:Β The triple-action formula in this product offers protection against rot, decay, and insect attacks, ensuring the longevity of your wooden structures.

Colour and Finish:Β The clear finish of this wood treatment allows the natural beauty of the wood to be showcased while still providing protection.

Application Method:Β This wood treatment can be applied using a brush, spray, or dip, offering flexibility and convenience for the user.

Drying Time and Re-coat Intervals:Β With a drying time of few hours, this product takes longer to dry compared to some other options on the market.

Product Summary:

Everbuild Lumberjack Triple Action Wood Treatment is a versatile and effective solution for protecting all types of wood. The triple-action formula offers protection against rot, decay, and insect attacks, ensuring the longevity of your wooden structures.

The clear finish allows the natural beauty of the wood to be showcased while still providing protection. This wood treatment can be applied using a brush, spray, or dip, offering flexibility and convenience for the user. However, it has a drying time of few hours compared to some other options on the market.

Overall, Everbuild Lumberjack Triple Action Wood Treatment is a solid choice for those looking to protect their wooden structures with a versatile and effective product.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"Spend little save big"

"Just wat we needed posted on time delivery 🚚 good friendly well packaged"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 24 September 2023

"Good product"

"Easy to use no strong odours and does the job"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 September 2023

"does what it says."

"wood protection."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 July 2023

Where to buy Everbuild Lumberjack Triple Action Wood Treatment?

7. Ronseal 500ml Wet Wood Hardener

Overall rating (4.6)

Scored based on 1659 reviews

Easy to use (4.7)

Value for money (4.4)

Consideration Points:

Price:Β This product is competitively priced compared to other wet wood hardeners on the market.

Type of wood: The Ronseal Wet Wood Hardener is suitable for both soft and hardwoods, making it a versatile option for those looking to restore damaged wood surfaces.

Active ingredients:Β The active ingredients in this product, Ethoxylated Alcohols and Fatty Acids, are effective at hardening and strengthening damp or rotting wood.

Colour and finish:Β The clear finish of the Ronseal Wet Wood Hardener allows the natural wood grain to show through, making it a great option for those who want to maintain the natural look of the wood.

Application method: The product can be easily applied using a brush or poured onto the wood surface, making it a user-friendly option for DIY enthusiasts.

Drying time and re-coat intervals:Β The Ronseal Wet Wood Hardener dries quickly in just 2 hours and can be overpainted or varnished after 24 hours, allowing for efficient restoration of wood surfaces.

Product Summary:

The Ronseal 500ml Wet Wood Hardener is a versatile, effective and competitively priced option for those looking to restore damp or rotting wood surfaces. Its active ingredients, Ethoxylated Alcohols and Fatty Acids, harden and strengthen the wood while its clear finish allows for the natural grain of the wood to show through. The product can be easily applied using a brush or poured onto the wood surface, and it dries quickly, allowing for efficient restoration of wood surfaces.

The Ronseal Wet Wood Hardener is a popular product designed to protect and harden wood that has been weakened by wet rot, decay or insect damage. This product is perfect for those who want to salvage their old, worn-out wooden items and restore them to their former glory. Here is an in-depth product summary covering the points listed above

The Ronseal Wet Wood Hardener is a reliable and effective product for restoring and preserving damaged wood. Its unique formula helps to strengthen and harden the wood, providing a solid base for wood fillers or paint. It is easy to apply and can be used on all types of wood. It also dries quickly, allowing you to continue with your project in a timely manner.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"Use this outside if possible."

"Did what it said on the tin."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 13 September 2023

"Rotting wood revived"

"This product really does harden rotting wood, it does exactly as said on the tin."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 7 June 2023

"5.0 out of 5 stars Rotting wood revived"

"This product really does harden rotting wood, it does exactly as said on the tin."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§ on 7 June 2023

Where to buy Ronseal 500ml Wet Wood Hardener?

8. Cuprinol Ultimate Garden Wood Preserver

Overall rating (4.4)

Scored based on 301 reviews

Durability (5)

Easy to clean (5)

Easy to use (4.6)

Value for money (4.1)

Consideration Points:

Type of Wood: Cuprinol Ultimate Garden Wood Preserver is suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods, making it a versatile choice for various wood types.

Active Ingredients: This product features a powerful formula that contains active ingredients designed to protect wood against rot, decay, and wood-boring insects.

Colour and Finish: The clear finish allows the natural beauty of the wood grain to show through, making it perfect for those who prefer an unobtrusive and natural look.

Application Method: Cuprinol Ultimate Garden Wood Preserver can be applied using either a brush or spray, offering flexibility and ease of use for different project sizes.

Drying Time and Re-coat Intervals: This product has a quick drying time of just 2 hours, allowing for re-coating or further work to be done on the wood soon after application.

Product Summary:

Cuprinol Ultimate Garden Wood Preserver is a powerful option for protecting your woodwork. This product is suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods, ensuring a wide range of applications. The formula contains active ingredients that provide long-lasting protection against rot, decay, and wood-boring insects.

The clear finish of this preserver showcases the natural beauty of the wood grain, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more natural look. Additionally, the product can be applied using a brush or spray, providing flexibility and ease of use for different project sizes.

Overall, Cuprinol Ultimate Garden Wood Preserver is a top choice for your wood preservation needs. Its versatility, active ingredients, and quick drying time make it a reliable and efficient option for protecting your woodwork against rot, decay, and wood-boring insects.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"Great product"

"Amazing coverage, and excellent colour."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 2 August 2023

"Wooden pond"

"It went on very thinly and hardly used 25 percentage of the tin so I’m going to do my garden gate with the rest"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 July 2023

"5.0 out of 5 stars Great product"

"Value for money"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 January 2023

Where to buy Cuprinol Ultimate Garden Wood Preserver?

9. Everbuild LJCR01 Wood Preserver

Overall rating (4.5)

Scored based on 2215 reviews

Easy to use (4.7)

Value for money (4.4)

Water resistance (4.3)

Consideration Points:

Type of Wood: Everbuild LJCR01 Wood Preserver is suitable for use on most types of wood, including softwoods and hardwoods.

Active Ingredients: This product contains active ingredients designed to protect wood against rot and decay, providing long-lasting protection.

Colour and Finish:Β The clear finish allows the natural beauty of the wood grain to show through, making it perfect for those who prefer an unobtrusive and natural look.

Application Method: Everbuild LJCR01 Wood Preserver can be applied using either a brush or spray, providing flexibility and ease of use for different project sizes.

Drying Time and Re-coat Intervals: This product has a longer drying time than some other options on the market, taking few hours to dry before re-coating can be done.

Product Summary:

Everbuild LJCR01 Wood Preserver is a versatile option for protecting your woodwork. This product is suitable for use on most types of wood, including softwoods and hardwoods, making it a reliable choice for a range of applications.

The formula contains active ingredients designed to protect against rot and decay, providing long-lasting protection for your woodwork. The clear finish allows the natural beauty of the wood grain to show through, making it a great option for those who prefer a more natural look.

Everbuild LJCR01 Wood Preserver can be applied using either a brush or spray, offering flexibility and ease of use for different project sizes. However, this product has a longer drying time than some other options on the market, taking few hours to dry before re-coating can be done. This is something to consider if you are on a tight schedule or need to complete your project quickly.

Overall, Everbuild LJCR01 Wood Preserver is a reliable and versatile option for protecting your woodwork against rot and decay. Its active ingredients and clear finish make it a great choice for those who want to preserve the natural beauty of their wood, while the option to apply it using a brush or spray offers flexibility and ease of use.

Read all user reviews on Amazon

"Runny"

"This stuff is ok but very runny so be careful"

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 25 September 2023

"Great price great product."

"Simple to use, just pour some into a plastic tray (I use old food trays). Hold the plastic tray under the wood you are treating, to catch any excess preserver that runs off. When finished, it's an easy job to wash the paint brush in water. And don't forget to wear rubber gloves and eye protection."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 September 2023

"Excellent"

"Arrived on time, well packaged and seems to have done the job well. Of course - time will tell."

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 10 September 2023

Where to buy Everbuild LJCR01 Wood Preserver?

Why are wood preservers better than their alternatives?

Now, you might be wondering, what's so special about wood preservers? Why not just use paint or varnish? Well, let me tell you, there's a world of difference!

Wood preservers penetrate deep into the timber, providing protection from the inside out. They shield the wood from rot, decay, and pesky insects like woodworms. On the other hand, alternatives like paint or varnish only offer a superficial barrier. They might make your wood look nice, but they don't give it the proper protection it needs.

Another key advantage of using a high-quality wood preserver is its long-lasting effect. While you might need to reapply paint or varnish every couple of years, a good wood preserver can last for many years, ensuring your timber stays in tip-top condition.

Consideration points when buying a wood preserver:

  1. Type of wood: First and foremost, consider the type of wood you're working with. Softwoods like pine and cedar require different preservatives than hardwoods like oak and teak. Make sure you select a product that's suitable for your specific wood type.
  2. Active ingredients: Look for a wood preserver with effective active ingredients that combat rot, decay, and insects. Popular options include copper, boron, and zinc-based compounds. But remember, always read the label and follow the manufacturer's instructions!
  3. Colour and finish: Do you want a clear, natural look, or would you prefer a tinted preserver that enhances the wood's natural grain? There are plenty of options to choose from, so pick one that matches your desired aesthetic.
  4. Application method: Some wood preservers are easier to apply than others. You might prefer a brush-on formula, a spray, or even a dipping solution. Consider the size of the project and the application method that suits you best.
  5. Drying time and re-coat intervals: Check the drying time and re-coat intervals on the product label. You don't want to be waiting around for days before you can apply a second coat or use your wood!

Remember, investing in the best wood preserver is essential for keeping your timber in top shape. So take your time, do your research, and choose a product that meets your needs. With the right wood preserver, your woodwork will be protected and looking great for years to come. Happy preserving!

The current best wood preservers in 2023

Get Cashback Faster & Earn Free Fraffle Tickets

Shop at your favourite stores and enjoy cashback in days, not months. Plus, sign up today to get 5x Free Fraffle tickets!

JOIN THE FAST CASHBACK REVOLUTION
ALDI logo
B&Q logo
Adidas logo
Argos logo
North face logo
Currys logo
Pets-at-home logo
AA logo
AO logo
BT logo