Wood is a popular building material, but there is always one primary issue. It is an organic material and thus will always rot, either sooner or later. Fortunately, technology and the modern world have discovered a convenient and elegant solution to this natural problem. So, let’s compare two primary products that preserve the wood and enhance its longevity: Olympic Waterguard vs Thompson Water Seal.
Olympic Waterguard and Thompson Water Seal are popular wood sealers. They both feature UV rays blockers and keep the wood from fading or discoloring. In addition, they form a clear, water-resistant finish that keeps rotting away. Even better, they keep the wood refreshed and looking good for a long, long time.
That said, it would be best to compare and contrast these clear protective decking coats. So, please check out this article for a detailed account of their features, differences, similarities, and uses.
There is so much to say about these two products. But first, let us examine each formula to appreciate its unique properties. This way, we will appreciate their similarities and differences even better.
Table of Contents
Olympic Waterguard
Olympic Waterguard is an excellent product from the Olympic company. It is primarily a deck stain that works best for wooden decks. Even better, you can use it for exterior projects comfortably without worrying about damaging elements.
From its name, Waterguard protects lumber from moisture damage. It is a clear, film-forming finish that repels water from the environment. Therefore, the wood stays free from excess moisture.
This product has various components such as linseed oil, paraffin, and various solvents. Also, the manufacturer has a special ingredient considered to be a trade secret that keeps them ahead of the deck stain game.
Unfortunately, Waterguard delivers an almost impossible-to-invoke warranty. You are unlikely to benefit from the product’s satisfaction guarantee when the inspector uncovers any inconsistencies in the surface preparation stage. Even worse, the project failure burden is yours if there is ‘too much footfall’ on the deck.
Therefore, it is prudent to adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s instructions. For instance, Olympic requires you to prepare the surface well by a thorough clean-up session. You can also consider an Olympic-brand cleanser. This way, you remove all traces of previous sealers and finishes.
In addition, you are better off reapplying the sealer every year. Otherwise, the deck will weather and become vulnerable to sun and water damage. Luckily, Waterseal’s application procedure is an easy one. Thus, an annual maintenance schedule is not overwhelming.
Please note that Olympic Waterguard only requires one coat to deliver a satisfactory finish. Hence, it would be best to test the product on an inconspicuous area before handling the entire deck.
You can also use the sealer on pressure-treated wood decks. However, it is wise to ensure that the wood is dry before application. The trapped moisture can compromise the resulting finish.
On top of that, consider back brushing the sealer on the deck’s surface. Work the finish into the lumber using multiple roller or brush passes. This way, you are sure of excellent formula penetration.
Remember to apply Olympic Waterguard at the recommended temperatures to deliver a perfect finish. So, you can consider a 50 to 90 degrees F Fahrenheit temperature range. But if you are in an area with low temperatures, a minimum of 35 degrees Fahrenheit can still deliver a desirable finish.
Mostly, one gallon of the product is enough to deliver full coverage for about 250 to 350 square feet. However, highly porous lumber like ash, cedar, chestnut, oak, and elm may absorb more formula.
On the other hand, closed-grain and less porous wood such as rosewood, yellow poplar, Marple, cherry, and birch will soak in less formula. Thus, it would be best to assess your wood before making a purchase.
Thompson’s Water Seal
Thompson’s Water seal gets its name from Edward Addison Thompson, a polymer chemist. Interestingly, it was useful in the construction industries in the 1920s as it protected concrete from weathering.
It wasn’t until 1982 that the company expanded to clear decking sealants. Also, the manufacturer embraced the name Waterseal for this wide range of products, which is still the name to date.
The product line included exterior stain, cleansers, penetrating oil, and rattle-can products useful for small projects. Therefore, its market expanded, and it now included woodworking projects.
Thompson describes most of their products as oil-based products. However, there is no trace of any oil ingredients as the main ingredients in the formula are paraffin and denatured alcohol.
Also, the company claims that the formula soaks into the wood to form a water-resistant barrier. Well, this aspect would indicate the presence of drying oils such as tung oil or linseed oil.
On top of that, the Water Seal line has clear and semi-transparent formulas. Even better, you will find tinted sealer and stain combinations. Thus, you can get the most suitable product for your work.
The manufacturer recommends two coats of Thompson’s Water Seal formula. This way, you’ll deliver a durable finish. However, you will not get a warranty if anything goes wrong. So, please follow the product’s instructions to the latter.
In addition, it would be best to wait for about one hour for the base coat to dry before applying the second one.
That said, let us compare and contrast these two products.
Similarities
Although these products are from different manufacturers, they have a ton of similarities. For instance, they are suitable for exterior wood projects and sometimes make unverified claims about their efficacy.
The products dry very quickly and allow you to complete your work within a short duration. Also, they are easy to clean up. Thus, you will not have much trouble removing accidental spills.
Here is a summary of the similarities:
- Use
Both Olympic Waterguard and Thompson’s Water Seal are popular wood finishes. They protect the lumber from elements. Therefore, they are suitable for exterior woodworking applications.
- UV Blocking Capabilities
The products have UV blockers that keep the wood safe from damaging UV rays. However, they do not keep the surface from weathering and fading. Therefore, it would be best to limit the wood’s sunlight exposure.
- Mildew-Resistance
Thompson’s Water Seal and Olympic Waterguard boast superior protection from mold and mildew. In addition, you do not have to panic anytime you see some mold or mildew signs on the surrounding surface. So. you can expect the finish to stay intact for a long duration.
- Ease of Clean Up
These formulas are easy to clean and maintain as soap and water will give you a pretty clean surface. In addition, you do not need additional cleaning equipment as rollers and brushes are enough to remove stubborn stains.
- Dry Time
The sealers only need one hour to dry to the touch. Hence, you will complete your project within a short duration. Also,
- Differences
Olympic Waterguard and Thompson’s Water Seal differ significantly. You will observe the contrast in the needed number of coats, color availability, satisfaction guarantee, and application time.
- Number of Coats
Thompson’s Water Seal needs two coats to deliver a consistent and uniform finish. More so, the second coat covers the imperfections in the first layer. On the other hand, Olympic Waterguard only needs one layer to achieve a satisfactory result.
- Application Time
Thompson’s Water Seal needs more application time because you need a second coat to deliver a successful project. In contrast, Olympic Waterguard only needs one layer, and thus it takes less time to apply.
- Warranty
Olympic water guard has a customer satisfaction guarantee, which comes to your aid after delivering a failed product. However, the company’s inspectors need to verify that you followed the manufacturer’s instructions before approving your request.
Conversely, Thompson’s Water Seal does not give customers a warranty. Therefore, you will bear the loss alone if you do not get a suitable outcome.
- Color
The Thompson’s Water Seal comes in multiple shades. For example, you will get clear and tinted stains and sealers. On the other hand, Olympic Waterguard only has one color, a clear coat.
NB: Please remember that the primary distinguishing attribute of these products is the coats you need to deliver a perfect result. More so, this aspect increases or reduces the application time. For example, you need more time to apply Thompson’s Waterseal, which needs two coats to offer a durable result.
That said, it is one thing to get the most suitable product and another to get the most suitable finish. Therefore, it would be best to learn the best way to apply these sealers. So, how do we seal wood using Thompson’s Waterseal or Olympic Waterguard?
The sealing job has two primary parts: cleaning the wood and applying the formula.
- Cleaning the Wood
Please give the wood a good sweeping and remove any gunk and debris. You can use putty knives and screwdrivers for a thorough job. Also, it would be best to include a wood cleaner for stubborn stains or mold and mildew.
On top of that, remember to protect nearby plants and shrubs with plastic sheets before you start the job. In addition, a cloudy day would be a perfect time to engage in the application. Therefore, the sun will not dry the cleaner too quickly.
- Applying the Sealer
It would be best to follow the manufacturers’ instructions during the application stage. This way, you are sure of delivering a professional finish. Even better, you can hire an expert to help out if you are a newbie.
Fortunately, there are multiple applicators to use for your project. For instance, you can use a paintbrush, paint roller, paint pad, or garden sprayer. However, it would be best to cover surrounding areas when spraying the formula.
In addition, please wipe any excess product with a cloth or your applicator. Otherwise, you’ll deliver ugly paint streaks. Worse still, you may deliver an inconsistent and bumpy surface that may be hard to recoat.
Lastly, allow the paint to dry well before adding another coat. Also, please confirm with the product label whether the finish needs one or two coats. This way, you’ll plan your time and resources better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are som e of the most asked questions regarding the subject;
- Can I Spray Olympic Waterguard?
Yes. It is possible to spray Olympic Waterguard. However, it would be prudent to back-roll or back-brush the surface to deliver a more even finish. Therefore, have a roller or brush on the side to help out after spraying.
Also, please avoid thinning the formula or mixing it with other paints, coating, or stain products. Otherwise, you may end up with a failed product. So, please stick to the manufacturer’s instructions and enjoy your desired finish.
- Is Thompson’s Water Seal Sprayable?
Thompson’s Water Seal formula is sprayable. You can use a pump sprayer or a garden sprayer with a hose. This way, you’ll deliver a much better and consistent finish. Also, you will save time and complete the work faster.
On top of that, the product manufacturer encourages users to apply the product with a plastic sprayer and a brass wand.
- Why Is My Thompson Water Seal Sticky?
Thompson Water Seal is usually sticky if you have high moisture content in the environment. This situation hinders drying, causing the freshly sealed surface to remain tacky even after 24 hours of drying.
- Does Thompson Water Seal go bad?
Believe it or not, the formula can remain good for about a year, whether you open the can or not. Better still, you can store a tightly sealed formula indefinitely without worrying about temperature levels.
Conclusion
Lumber is susceptible to a couple of elements, such as ultraviolet rays and moisture. Hence, it is prudent to consider wood sealers and clear coats to enhance the material’s life. In addition, these products will keep the wood from weathering and fading over time. But which is the best formula to use? Let’s engage in a debate to find out:
Olympic Waterguard vs Thompson Water Seal
Both products pride themselves on providing superior protection to the wood. They are UV rays-resistant and preserve the wood from premature fading. Also, the formulas offer a waterproof finish and keep the wood safe from rotting.
Tyron Otieno
Tyron is an avid woodworker and writer. He founded this website to help other woodworkers, whether hobbyists or professionals by sharing his knowledge and experiencie after a decade of woodworking.
FAQs
Is Thompson Water Seal better than Olympic Waterguard? ›
Thompson WaterSeal clear coat received a score of 12 out of 100 in Consumer Report's test of 28 clear decking finishes. Olympic Waterguard scored a 5 out of 100. You can expect WaterSeal to perform slightly better than Olympic Waterguard, so it is appropriate to say that WaterSeal is the superior product.
What is better than Thompsons water Seal? ›- Thompson's Water Seal. ...
- Rainguard Premium Wood Sealer. ...
- DEFY Crystal Clear Sealer. ...
- Anchorseal 2. ...
- Roxil Wood Protection Cream. ...
- Eco-Advance Exterior Wood Waterproofer. ...
- Ready Seal Stain and Sealer for Wood. ...
- Pure Tung Oil Natural Wood Sealer.
In general, an oil-based deck stain will last the longest, but it also depends on the type of wood, the weather conditions, and how long the deck has gone unprotected before staining.
How long does Thompson water seal last? ›Water Seal can only be used on bare and uncoated brick, stone or concrete. How long will Water Seal last? If applied correctly, Water Seal will last up to 4 years.
Is Thompson's water seal any good? ›Is Thompson's WaterSeal Any Good? Our experience with Thompson's WaterSeal Waterproofer Plus Clear Wood Protector was disappointing overall, and we would not recommend this product. Its inability to prevent UV graying is too harmful to your deck's wood.
What is a good water sealant for wood? ›| Wood sealer | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thompsons WaterSeal Wood Protector | Check Price |
| 2 | Rainguard Sealer | Check Price |
| 3 | Agra Life Lumber-Seal | Check Price |
| 4 | DEFY Crystal Clear Sealer | Check Price |
Varnish, a combination of resin, solvent, and drying oil, gives a hard-shell finish that resists scratches without yellowing. To waterproof wood that will be placed outdoors, choose marine varnish, which contains UV absorbers to resist sun damage.
How many coats does Thompson's water seal have? ›One coat is enough, but if more color is desired, a second coat can be applied within two hours before the first coat has dried. With Thompson's® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Stains, you can clean your tools with soap and water. Let the deck dry for at least 24 hours and you're ready to replace the furniture.
How long does Olympic Waterguard take to dry? ›Drying Time
2 – 24 hrs wen applied in optimal temps of 50°F – 90°F.
As one of the best water seal products available, Thompsons will go a long way to preserving your deck from mildew and water damage. It will also help with UV damage and color fading over the long term.
What is the best sealer for pressure treated wood? ›
For pressure treated decks, we recommend Spa N Deck from Flood or Wood RX. The 100% acrylic finish formula can be applied in just one day, and the end result enhances the wood's natural beauty while providing extra durability.
What is the best finish for a deck? ›Oil-Based. Oil finishes are the traditional option for decks, although their composition has evolved somewhat from old linseed-oil formulations. Linseed oil is still used, but it's most often combined with alkyds, a synthetic alternative that better resists yellowing.
Can you use Thompson water seal on pressure treated wood? ›Some, like Thompson's® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Wood Protector, recommend waiting 30 days before application on new pressure treated lumber. Other products, like Thompson's® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Stain, can be applied immediately to new pressure treated lumber.
What is the best treatment for pressure treated wood deck? ›For fully exposed decks, a water-repellent sealer or a penetrating semi-transparent stain may provide the best finishing solution, even on wood that has been pressure treated with preservatives.
How often should you apply Thompson's water Seal? ›Thompson's WaterSeal includes a complete line of deck sealers and stains for protecting deck wood from moisture and sunlight. Applying a sealer and/or stain typically is recommended every one to three years, depending on the finishing product, deck use, weather conditions, and sun exposure.
How many square feet does 5 gallons of Thompson's water Seal cover? ›...
Approximate Coverage.
| Material | Approximate Coverage (sq. ft./gal.) |
|---|---|
| Wood: Smooth Finish | 200 |
| Plywood | 150 |
| Wood Shingles | 100 |
Be sure that both surface and air temperature are above 50˚F during application and for 48 hours after application. Do not apply product if rain is forecasted within 24 hours of application. Perform the splash test. Sprinkle water on various sections of surface to be sealed.
Why is my Thompson water seal sticky? ›If the weather is too cold, your Thompson water seal layer will just stay there and not dry as it should. Ideally, the sealant will dry best in temperatures above 50°F. If the thermometer units dip below this level during or soon after application, the deck may stay sticky for longer than 24 hours.
Does Thompson water seal stop mold? ›This cleaner is truly multi-surface; it will work on wood and composite decks, fences, concrete, brick, siding, roofs, and more. The key features of this cleaner are: oxygenated foaming action. removes stains from dirt, mildew, algae, and fungus.
Does Thompson water seal prevent mold? ›6. Mildew, algae, mold prevention. You want a coating that can keep fungi away from your deck and other surfaces for a long time. The Thompson's Waterseal resists mildew, algae, and mold for a few years, after which you will need to reapply it.
What is the best sealant for outdoor projects? ›
- Ready Seal 112 1-Gallon Can Natural Cedar – Best Outdoor Furniture Sealer.
- Star Brite Premium Golden Teak Oil – Best Oil-based Wood Sealer.
- SEAL-ONCE MARINE – Best Clear Wood Sealer for Outdoor Furniture.
- Thompsons Waterseal 41851 Gl STN – Best Waterproof Wood Sealer.
Plywood can be waterproofed with paint, polyurethane, or epoxy finish. Lightly sand the plywood with 180 grit sandpaper, clean off any sawdust, and apply the finish with a brush or by pouring the finish on if using epoxy.
Can you use Thompson water seal over stained wood? ›Yes, you can put Thompson water sealer over stained wood whether the stain is water or oil-based. But surface preparation is key. If the stain has completely dried and cured it's fine to apply sealer, but if there is still some moisture, applying the water seal over the stain might cause problems.
What is the best way to seal outdoor wood furniture? ›Easy Way to Seal Outdoor Wood Furniture #shorts #Waterseal
How do you protect pine wood outside? ›Polyurethane, paint, or epoxy finishes all work well for preserving pine objects and giving them a bright, clean finish. Once you've applied the right finish, your pine will be protected and able to withstand regular use outside.
Why is my deck sticky after sealing? ›"A sticky or tacky deck is usually due to over-application or failing to wipe the excess stain from the surface of the wood. We recommend our Penofin Pro-Tech Cleaner Step 2. This is a product that comes in powder form. You mix 1 cup to a gallon of water, wet the wood and apply the solution to the wood surface.
Should I put two coats of sealer on my deck? ›Overly thick sealant is prone to peeling and chipping, so avoid oversaturating the surface by applying only one coat of sealant at a time. In most cases all you'll need is one coat, but if you decide to apply a second coat, wait at least 24 hours.
Does Thompson Water Seal need to be shaken? ›When used as a concrete hardening agent Thompson's Water seal should be applied at a rate of 1 litre per 5 square metres. shake the can vigorously before use. Thompson's Water seal has a slightly milky appearence in the can,but clears quickly upon application. For best results ensure the surface is as dry as possible.
Is Olympic WaterGuard water or oil based? ›A durable acrylic oil wood stain that provides protection, while allowing a slight hint of color that highlights the wood grain. This penetrating, advanced multi-surface sealant protects against water damage and creates a mildew-resistant coating. Perfect for almost any outdoor wood surface.
How many coats are there in Olympic water Seal? ›| Application Method | Brush,Paint Sprayer,Pump-up Sprayer,Roller | Base Material |
|---|---|---|
| Product Weight (lb.) | 44.24 lb | Recommended Number of Coats |
| Returnable | 90-Day | Sheen |
| Stain & Sealer In One | Yes | Substrate Condition |
| Substrate/Surface Usage Type | Wood | Surface Location |
Can Olympic WaterGuard be applied to damp wood? ›
Surface must be dry and clean. Remove all dust, dirt, mildew, oil, loose wood fibers, and other contaminants. Previous coatings must be completely removed. Prior to application, clean weathered, dirty, or mildewed surfaces with Olympic Deck Cleaner.
What is the best way to seal a deck? ›How to Clean, Renew and Seal a Wood Deck in One Day - YouTube
How do you keep pressure treated wood from rotting? ›The best way to protect from pressure-treated wood rot is to apply a deck preservative. Like we mentioned earlier, stains, paints and sealants are the best choice to use. You can find these items easily at the local hardware store.
How do I prepare my deck for Thompson's water Seal? ›Clean & Treat a Deck in One Day with Thompson's WaterSeal - YouTube
Can you use Thompson Water Seal on old wood? ›If there is dirt and stains from mildew but no coating, then a general purpose cleaner like Thompson's® WaterSeal® 3 in 1™ Wood Cleaner will work on any type of wood. If there is an old peeling coating, you have two options - Thompson's® WaterSeal® Heavy Duty Deck Cleaner will remove anything but a solid deck stain.
How long should pressure treated wood dry before sealing? ›The new rule of thumb is 30 days, but your project could be ready in less time depending on factors like weather conditions and how long the material was in the lumber yard before you purchased it. The best course of action is to test the surface yourself. Splash some water on the deck boards.
How long should a pressure treated wood deck last? ›Wooden Decks Made from Pressure-Treated Lumber
So while it will resist a lot of the environmental changes that the weather brings, it might not be the ideal material for everyone. If you maintain and seal your pressure-treated deck, it can last you around 50 years.
Some, like Thompson's® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Wood Protector, recommend waiting 30 days before application on new pressure treated lumber. Other products, like Thompson's® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Stain, can be applied immediately to new pressure treated lumber.
How long does Olympic Waterguard take to dry? ›Drying Time
2 – 24 hrs wen applied in optimal temps of 50°F – 90°F.
While concrete sealers and waterproofers perform similar functions, they do so in different ways. A concrete sealer forms protective layers over concrete surfaces while concrete waterproofers fill concrete gaps as a method of protection.
How often use Thompson's water Seal? ›
Thompson's WaterSeal includes a complete line of deck sealers and stains for protecting deck wood from moisture and sunlight. Applying a sealer and/or stain typically is recommended every one to three years, depending on the finishing product, deck use, weather conditions, and sun exposure.
What is the best treatment for pressure treated wood deck? ›For fully exposed decks, a water-repellent sealer or a penetrating semi-transparent stain may provide the best finishing solution, even on wood that has been pressure treated with preservatives.
What is the best way to protect pressure treated wood? ›ULTRAVIOLET PROTECTION
If you're looking to maintain the original color of pressure-treated wood longer, you will need to not only clean your deck periodically, but also apply a water-repellent finish with an ultraviolet stabilizer. The stabilizer will not prevent eventual discoloration, but will slow the process.
Thompson's® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Stains can be applied to damp wood, so you only have to wait about two hours to begin applying stain. Some of our other products require that the wood dry for 48 hours before applying a deck coating.
Is Olympic WaterGuard water or oil based? ›A durable acrylic oil wood stain that provides protection, while allowing a slight hint of color that highlights the wood grain. This penetrating, advanced multi-surface sealant protects against water damage and creates a mildew-resistant coating. Perfect for almost any outdoor wood surface.
How many coats are there in Olympic water Seal? ›| Application Method | Brush,Paint Sprayer,Pump-up Sprayer,Roller | Base Material |
|---|---|---|
| Product Weight (lb.) | 44.24 lb | Recommended Number of Coats |
| Returnable | 90-Day | Sheen |
| Stain & Sealer In One | Yes | Substrate Condition |
| Substrate/Surface Usage Type | Wood | Surface Location |
Surface must be dry and clean. Remove all dust, dirt, mildew, oil, loose wood fibers, and other contaminants. Previous coatings must be completely removed. Prior to application, clean weathered, dirty, or mildewed surfaces with Olympic Deck Cleaner.
What is the best waterproof cement? ›Polyurethane is considered one of the best waterproofing materials. It can be applied seamlessly and penetrates the surface deeply and evenly. Thus, the polyurethane membrane will fill in even the finest cracks in concrete, reducing its water absorbency capacity.
What is the best way to waterproof concrete? ›The most common way to waterproof concrete is to use a liquid waterproofing product specifically designed for that purpose. Liquid waterproofing gel is a thick substance that turns into a rubber-like coating once applied to the outside of a concrete wall.
How long does water based sealer last? ›ACRYLIC-RESIN SEALERS
There are two types of acrylic sealers: water-based and solvent based, both of which have shorter life spans than both penetrating sealers and epoxies. They generally last 1 to 3 years.
What's the best way to apply Thompson's water seal? ›
Q: What is the best way to apply Thompson's® WaterSeal® cleaners? The fastest way to apply is with a pump-up sprayer (using a coarse setting), but you can also apply with a brush or a roller. You should apply liberally.
How many square feet does 5 gallons of Thompson's water seal cover? ›...
Approximate Coverage.
| Material | Approximate Coverage (sq. ft./gal.) |
|---|---|
| Wood: Smooth Finish | 200 |
| Plywood | 150 |
| Wood Shingles | 100 |
Be sure that both surface and air temperature are above 50˚F during application and for 48 hours after application. Do not apply product if rain is forecasted within 24 hours of application. Perform the splash test. Sprinkle water on various sections of surface to be sealed.