# TLDR Review: Thompsons WaterSeal Wood Protector

*Published: 2025-06-09 | Updated: 2025-07-18 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/thompsons-waterseal-wood-protector*

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## Product: Thompsons WaterSeal Wood Protector
**Brand:** Thompson's Water Seal

## Pros
- Effectively beads up water, showcasing excellent water repellency.
- Easy application using a roller on an extension pole and goes on smoothly.
- Enhances and preserves the natural colors and grain of the wood.
- Provides a nice finish, especially on decks.
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Reliable brand reputation for quality wood protection.
- Appropriate for use ahead of heavy rain, offering optimal protection.

## Cons
- The garden sprayer produced uneven spray and struggled with the sealer's thickness.
- Modifying the application method led to a messy and inconsistent finish.
- The sealed surface became blotchy after the first rain, indicating issues with the finish.
- Lacks long-term durability, lasting only a couple of years in certain climates.
- Some overall dissatisfaction with the final appearance of decking after sealing.

## Bottom Line

Thompson's WaterSeal 21802 VOC Wood Protector effectively repels water and is easy to apply, making it ideal for quick projects that need immediate protection. However, it may not hold up as well in the long term, with some users reporting a less-than-satisfactory appearance after rain and decreased durability over time. If longevity and a consistent finish are crucial, consider alternatives like spar or marine varnishes that offer greater durability and UV protection.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Effectively beads up water, showcasing excellent water repellency. | The garden sprayer produced uneven spray and struggled with the sealer's thickness. |
| Easy application using a roller on an extension pole and goes on smoothly. | Modifying the application method led to a messy and inconsistent finish. |
| Enhances and preserves the natural colors and grain of the wood. | The sealed surface became blotchy after the first rain, indicating issues with the finish. |
| Provides a nice finish, especially on decks. | Lacks long-term durability, lasting only a couple of years in certain climates. |
| Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. | Some overall dissatisfaction with the final appearance of decking after sealing. |
| Reliable brand reputation for quality wood protection. |  |
| Appropriate for use ahead of heavy rain, offering optimal protection. |  |

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| My Store | $9.00  | Check |
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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*