I've used big box stores products in past on my deck. I went with an expensive stain last year and was not happy with results. At a local store in Norman, Ok a friend was buying Ready Seal. He convinced me to try the Natural Cedar on my deck. HOLY CRAP!! I'm SOLD on Ready Seal. The application, the cleanup, everything you say on label, is true. I will NEVER again use anything except Ready Seal on all of my wood projects. Take it from me, Ready Seal is the product to use! I am very, very happy with Ready Seal. Lee Roberts