★★★★★ 4.8 — 127 reviews
"See how the water sits on top of the wood because it can't penetrate it!"— Jeff Thorman, Home Renovision DIY
See It On Your Wood, Not a Screen.
Stain looks different on every species. Our samples are free — just $2.50 shipping. Pick from 16 colors or clear, apply it to your actual surface, and know exactly what you're getting before you commit.
Penetrating Protection
It Doesn't Sit On Top. It Moves In.
Most sealers form a film that cracks, peels, and traps moisture underneath. C2 Guard absorbs into wood's cellular structure and protects from within. Use it as a standalone sealer or as a pretreatment under paint, stain, or any topcoat — it protects the wood and makes whatever goes on top last longer.
Longevity
Protection Measured In Years, Not Seasons.
Up to 10 years on vertical surfaces like fences, siding, and shingles. 6 years on horizontal surfaces like decks. Most competitors claim 1–3 years. Many don't publish longevity numbers at all.
Maintenance
Recoat without the nightmare.
Because Guard is non-film-forming, it never peels or flakes. When it's time to refresh, just clean the surface and reapply. No sanding. No stripping. No regrets about choosing it in the first place.
Safety
Eco Friendly. And we mean it.
Less than 50g/L VOC — below the lowest standard in the US. Safe for children, pets, plants, and aquatic environments. Use it on docks, playgrounds, planters, and anywhere life actually happens.
The Cheapest Sealer Is the One You Don’t Have to Redo.
| C2 Guard | Typical Wax Based | Typical Oil Based | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price / gallon | ~$100 | ~$25 | ~$40–$55 |
| Protection duration | 6-10 years (varies by surface) | ~1.5 years | ~2–3 years |
| Cost per year | ~$16.67 | ~$16-$25 | ~$15–$27 |
| Reapplication prep | Clean & recoat | Sand, strip, recoat | Sand, recoat |
| Prep labor per recoat | ~1 hr (rinse and dry) | 4–8 hrs (sand, strip, clean) | 2–4 hrs (sand, clean) |
| VOC / Safety | <50g/L, non-toxic | Higher VOC | High VOC, flammable |
*Most sealers need recoating every 1–2 years — and each time means sanding, stripping, and starting over. Over a decade, that's 5–7 rounds of prep work you could've skipped. C2 Guard needs one recoat in the same period. Clean the surface and move on with your weekend.
One System. Every Surface.
Decks & Stairs
A penetrating deck stain and sealer that lasts up to 6 years on horizontal surfaces. Won't peel under foot traffic.
Fences & Gates
The fence stain you don't have to redo every year. Up to 10 years of protection on vertical surfaces.
Siding & Shingles
Penetrates deep into cedar, pine, and hardwood siding. Breathable — won't trap moisture behind the wood.
Outdoor Furniture
Furniture that lives outside deserves protection that doesn't feel like plastic. No sticky film, no buildup.
Docks & Marine
Safe for use near fresh and saltwater. Won't leach into the environment. Built for conditions other sealers can't handle.
Log Homes
Log walls need protection that goes deep. Guard penetrates thick wood construction where film-forming products can't reach.
Driveways, Sidewalks & Masonry
Prevents water intrusion on concrete and brick. Makes shoveling easier — ice forms on top but won't bond to the surface.
Don't Take Our Word For It
Works On Your Wood.
| Wood Type | Compatible | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar | Yes | Ideal surface. No special prep needed. |
| Pine | Yes | Ideal surface. No special prep needed. |
| Pressure-treated | Yes | Ideal surface. No special prep needed. |
| Redwood | Yes | Works well. Standard prep. |
| Ipe / Exotic hardwoods | Yes* | Dense woods need extra prep. Let weather a few months, sand with coarse paper. Apply sparingly — over-application can cause stickiness. |
| Teak | Yes* | Same as exotic hardwoods. Weather + sand before applying. |
*Guard for Wood works on virtually all exterior wood surfaces. Questions about your specific project? Contact us.
Simple To Apply. Easier To Maintain.
- Clean. Use C2 Wood Cleaner to remove dirt, mold, mildew, or old stain residue.
- Rinse and dry. Let the surface dry. A bit of dampness is OK.
- Test absorption. Drop water on the wood. It should soak in, not bead up. If it beads, the wood isn't ready.
- Apply first coat. Brush or spray. Work in manageable sections.
- Apply second coat wet-on-damp. While the first coat is still damp — not dry — apply the second coat. This is how Guard achieves full penetration.
Pro tip: Avoid applying in direct sunlight. If shade isn't available, lightly mist the surface and wait 10–30 minutes before applying.
