· polyurethanes shellac and amp varnish · 14 min read
10 Best Exterior Polyurethanes For Wood in 2024: Protect Your Outdoor Surfaces
Protect your outdoor wood surfaces with the best exterior polyurethanes. Our expert reviews reveal the top products for durability, UV protection, and ease of use.
When it comes to protecting your outdoor wood surfaces, few things are as effective as exterior polyurethane. This durable, water-resistant finish can help to shield your wood from the elements, extending its lifespan and preserving its beauty. But with so many different exterior polyurethanes on the market, choosing the right one can be a challenge. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of the 10 best exterior polyurethanes for wood in 2024. These products have been carefully selected for their durability, UV protection, and ease of use. Whether you're looking for a high-gloss finish or a more natural look, we've got you covered.
Overview

PROS
- Durable polyurethane coating provides exceptional protection against UV rays, moisture, and abrasion.
- Oil-based formula penetrates deep into the wood to enhance its durability and longevity.
CONS
- May require multiple coats for optimal protection.
- Can be difficult to apply evenly due to its thick consistency.
Varathane Rust-Oleum Ultimate Spar Urethane is the epitome of exterior wood protection. Engineered with an oil-based formula, this robust polyurethane coating seeps deep into the wood grain, creating a resilient barrier against the ravages of nature. Its superior UV resistance safeguards your wood from fading and discoloration, ensuring its pristine appearance for years to come.
The durability of Varathane Ultimate Spar Urethane is truly exceptional. It stands firm against moisture intrusion, preventing rot and decay, while its abrasion resistance shields against scratches and wear. Whether you're beautifying your deck, revitalizing your siding, or safeguarding your outdoor furniture, this polyurethane delivers unmatched protection.

PROS
- Provides excellent protection against the harsh elements, including UV rays, water damage, and extreme temperatures.
- Enhances the natural beauty of wood while providing a long-lasting, glossy finish.
- Easy to apply with a brush or sprayer, ensuring an even and consistent finish.
- Dries quickly and offers quick recoating time, significantly reducing project downtime.
- Safe for use on a variety of outdoor wood surfaces, such as decks, fences, siding, and furniture.
CONS
- May require multiple coats for optimal coverage and protection.
- Can be slightly slippery when wet, so precautions should be taken while walking on freshly coated surfaces.
Rust-Oleum 207008 Marine Spar Varnish is an exceptional exterior polyurethane coating designed specifically for wood surfaces. Its advanced formula combines superior protection with a beautiful, glossy finish. Whether you're restoring an aging deck or protecting new outdoor furniture, this varnish delivers remarkable results.
One of the key strengths of this product is its exceptional resistance to extreme weather conditions. It effectively shields wood from the damaging effects of UV rays, preventing fading and graying. Additionally, it boasts excellent water resistance, ensuring that your wood surfaces remain protected from rain, snow, and humidity. The polyurethane coating also provides strong defense against abrasion and scratches, maintaining the beauty of your wood for longer.

PROS
- Shields outdoor wood surfaces from the elements, preventing moisture damage and UV fading
- Water-based formula ensures quick drying time and easy cleanup
CONS
- May require multiple coats for optimal protection
- Can be slippery when applied thickly
For those seeking to preserve the natural beauty of their outdoor wood surfaces, Minwax's Water Based Helmsman Spar Urethane emerges as a reliable solution. This exterior polyurethane strikes a balance between protection and aesthetics, safeguarding your wood from the harsh elements while enhancing its natural grain. Its water-based formula sets it apart, offering a quick-drying advantage and effortless cleanup so you can protect your woodwork without extensive waiting times or cleanup hassles.
Applying Minwax's Exterior Polyurethane is a straightforward process, allowing you to achieve a smooth, protective finish. Simply stir the urethane thoroughly and apply it with a brush, ensuring an even coverage across the wood's surface. While a single coat provides a degree of protection, applying multiple coats deepens the protective barrier and extends its lifespan. However, it's important to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next to achieve the best results.

PROS
- Advanced water-based formula provides superior protection for exterior wood surfaces.
- Durable semi-gloss finish resists UV damage, moisture, and abrasion.
- Easy to apply and cleans up with soap and water.
- Ideal for decks, fences, siding, and other outdoor wood projects.
CONS
- May require multiple coats for optimal protection.
- Not suitable for underwater applications.
Rust-Oleum's Ultimate Spar Urethane Water Based is an excellent choice for protecting and beautifying outdoor wood surfaces. Its advanced water-based formula creates a tough, durable semi-gloss finish that effectively resists UV damage, moisture, and abrasion. This makes it ideal for decks, fences, siding, and other exterior wood projects that are exposed to harsh weather conditions.
The urethane is easy to apply using a brush, roller, or sprayer, and it cleans up easily with soap and water. It dries quickly, allowing for multiple coats to be applied in a single day. The semi-gloss finish provides an attractive sheen that enhances the natural beauty of wood while also providing long-lasting protection. Overall, Rust-Oleum's Ultimate Spar Urethane Water Based is a high-quality exterior polyurethane that is both easy to use and effective at protecting outdoor wood surfaces.

PROS
- Provides superior protection against moisture, UV rays, and abrasion.
- Enhances the natural beauty of wood while preserving its integrity.
- Water-based formula for easy application and cleanup
- Durable satin finish resists fading and yellowing, maintaining a pristine appearance.
CONS
- May require multiple coats for optimal protection.
- Surface preparation is crucial to ensure proper adhesion.
Rust-Oleum Ultimate Spar Urethane is an exceptional exterior polyurethane specifically designed for wood surfaces. Its advanced formula offers unparalleled protection against the elements, safeguarding your wood from moisture, UV rays, and abrasion. The water-based formulation ensures effortless application and cleanup, making it a convenient choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
This polyurethane not only shields your wood but also accentuates its natural beauty. The satin finish imparts a subtle sheen that highlights the wood's grain and texture, giving it a sophisticated and inviting look. Its durability ensures that the finish remains vibrant and unfaded over time, even under harsh weather conditions. However, it's worth noting that proper surface preparation is essential to guarantee optimal adhesion and long-lasting results.

PROS
- Forms an impenetrable barrier against moisture, UV rays, and harsh marine conditions
- Promises extended longevity and remarkable resistance to cracking, peeling, and fading
- Effortlessly enhances the aesthetic appeal of wood surfaces with its rich, glossy finish
CONS
- May require multiple coats for optimal protection
- Proper surface preparation is crucial for long-lasting results
TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spar Varnish emerges as the champion of exterior wood protection with its advanced polyurethane formula. This remarkable product seamlessly marries durability and elegance, shielding your precious wood surfaces from the relentless elements. Whether you seek to rejuvenate your boat's exterior or bestow a touch of radiance upon your outdoor furniture, Gleam Marine Spar Varnish stands ready to elevate its allure and safeguard its integrity.
This innovative varnish boasts an unparalleled ability to withstand the harsh marine environment, forming an impenetrable barrier against moisture, UV rays, and the relentless assault of saltwater. Its exceptional resistance to cracking, peeling, and fading ensures that your wood surfaces retain their pristine condition for seasons to come. Furthermore, Gleam Marine Spar Varnish effortlessly enhances the aesthetic appeal of wood with its rich, glossy finish, accentuating the natural beauty of your prized possessions.

PROS
- Designed specifically for outdoor wood surfaces, delivering exceptional durability and protection from the elements
- Water-based formula ensures ease of application, low odor, and fast drying time for quick project completion
CONS
- May require multiple coats for optimal protection in high-traffic areas
- Ensure proper application techniques and surface preparation for best results
TotalBoat Halcyon Marine Varnish is an excellent choice for protecting and enhancing the beauty of your exterior wood surfaces. This water-based polyurethane varnish boasts an impressive resistance to water damage, UV rays, and everyday wear and tear, making it ideal for decks, fences, and other outdoor structures. Its user-friendly formula applies smoothly, minimizing brushstrokes and ensuring an even, professional-looking finish. Furthermore, the fast drying time allows for quick project completion, reducing downtime and allowing you to enjoy your refreshed outdoor space in no time.
While Halcyon Marine Varnish generally requires multiple coats for maximum protection, the ease of application and quick drying time make this a worthwhile investment. By following proper application techniques and ensuring proper surface preparation, you can achieve a durable, long-lasting finish that will keep your exterior wood surfaces looking their best for years to come. Overall, TotalBoat Halcyon Marine Varnish is a high-quality, water-based polyurethane finish that provides superior protection and a beautiful gloss finish, making it an excellent choice for any outdoor wood project.

PROS
- Seals and protects wood from weather damage and wear
- Provides a durable, high-gloss finish that enhances natural wood grain
- Easy application, spray-on formula ensures even coverage and minimal drips
- UV-resistant formula prevents fading and yellowing, maintaining a pristine finish
- Fast drying formula allows for quick application and reduced project completion time
CONS
- May require multiple coats for optimal protection, adding to the application time
- Strong odor during application, requires proper ventilation and respiratory protection
The RUST-OLEUM 250081 Outdoor Clear Gloss Exterior Polyurethane Spray is a premium solution for protecting and enhancing wood surfaces against harsh outdoor elements. Its advanced formula provides a durable, high-gloss finish that both seals and beautifies wood while maintaining its natural grain pattern. With its user-friendly spray-on application, this polyurethane ensures even coverage and minimal drips, making it an ideal choice for DIY projects and professional applications alike. Backed by a UV-resistant formula, this product effectively prevents fading and yellowing, ensuring that your wood surfaces remain pristine and protected over time.
While multiple coats may be necessary for optimal protection, the fast-drying formula allows for quick application, reducing project completion time. Additionally, the strong odor during application necessitates proper ventilation and respiratory protection measures. Despite these minor drawbacks, the RUST-OLEUM 250081 Exterior Polyurethane Spray is highly recommended for anyone seeking to revitalize and safeguard their wooden decks, fences, siding, and more, leaving them looking renewed, protected, and strikingly beautiful.

PROS
- Exceptional UV resistance protects against fading and yellowing
- Durable, high-gloss finish enhances the natural beauty of wood
CONS
- May require multiple coats for optimal protection
- Can be slightly challenging to apply smoothly
TotalBoat Lust Marine Varnish is a high-performance exterior polyurethane specifically designed to protect and beautify wood surfaces. Its exceptional UV resistance shields against the harsh effects of sunlight, preventing fading and yellowing over time. The high-gloss finish imparts a lustrous shine that accentuates the natural grain and character of the wood.
Applying Lust Marine Varnish requires some care and patience. To achieve the best results, ensure the wood surface is clean, dry, and free of any contaminants. Use a high-quality brush or roller and apply thin, even coats, allowing ample drying time between each layer. While multiple coats may be necessary for optimal protection, the durable finish is well worth the effort.

PROS
- Provides exceptional protection against wear, moisture, and chemicals
- Dries to a durable high-gloss finish that enhances the beauty of wood surfaces
- Easy to apply with brush or roller, ensuring a smooth, even finish
- Quick-drying formula allows for multiple coats to be applied in a short timeframe
CONS
- May require multiple coats for optimal protection
- Strong odor during application, proper ventilation is recommended
Varathane's Triple Thick Polyurethane is an excellent choice for protecting and beautifying exterior wood surfaces. Its thick formula provides exceptional resistance to wear, moisture, and chemicals, ensuring long-lasting protection against the elements. The high-gloss finish adds a touch of elegance to any wood surface, enhancing its natural grain and color.
Applying the polyurethane is straightforward, whether using a brush or roller. It dries quickly, allowing for multiple coats to be applied in a short period. However, it's important to note that achieving optimal protection may require multiple coats. Additionally, the polyurethane emits a strong odor during application, so proper ventilation is recommended. Overall, Varathane's Triple Thick Polyurethane is a highly effective and durable solution for protecting and enhancing exterior wood surfaces, making it an excellent investment for any homeowner or DIY enthusiast.
In this article, we have reviewed the 10 best exterior polyurethanes for wood in 2024. These products have been carefully selected for their durability, UV protection, and ease of use. Whether you're looking for a high-gloss finish or a more natural look, we've got you covered. Our top pick is the Varathane Rust-Oleum 9341 Ultimate Spar Urethane Oil Based, Quart, Satin. This product offers excellent durability and UV protection, and it is easy to apply. If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Rust-Oleum 207008 Marine Spar Varnish, Quart, Gloss Clear is a great choice. This product provides good protection against the elements, and it is also easy to apply. No matter what your needs are, we're confident that you'll be able to find the best exterior polyurethane for wood in 2024 on our list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best exterior polyurethane for wood?
The best exterior polyurethane for wood is the Varathane Rust-Oleum 9341 Ultimate Spar Urethane Oil Based, Quart, Satin. This product offers excellent durability and UV protection, and it is easy to apply.
What are the benefits of using exterior polyurethane on wood?
Exterior polyurethane provides a number of benefits for wood, including protection from the elements, UV protection, and a beautiful finish.
How do I apply exterior polyurethane to wood?
To apply exterior polyurethane to wood, first clean the surface of the wood and allow it to dry. Then, apply a thin coat of polyurethane to the wood using a brush or roller. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying a second coat.
How long does exterior polyurethane last?
Exterior polyurethane can last for several years, depending on the quality of the product and the conditions to which it is exposed.
What is the difference between oil-based and water-based exterior polyurethane?
Oil-based exterior polyurethane is more durable and water-resistant than water-based polyurethane. However, oil-based polyurethane is also more difficult to apply and takes longer to dry.










