Preserving your DIY Halloween decorations from the unforgiving weather elements is crucial to make sure they maintain spooky allure and last for seasons to come.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into various types of protective products suitable for safeguarding wood, foam, and cardboard Halloween decorations.
Each product will be accompanied by descriptions, rankings, and estimated pricing, allowing you to make an informed choice for your protection needs.
Protecting Wood Decorations
Wood Sealers
Wood sealers provide an effective protective layer against moisture, UV rays, and other weather-related damage for your wooden Halloween decorations.
- Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane
- Ranking: 5/5
- Estimated Pricing: $25 – $30 per quart
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Wood Waterproofing Stain
Waterproofing stains not only protect wood from moisture but also add vibrant colors to enhance the aesthetic of your decorations.
- Thompson’s WaterSeal Waterproofing Stain
- Ranking: 4/5
- Estimated Pricing: $8 per aerosol can; $15 – $40 per gallon
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Polyurethane Coatings
Polyurethane coatings provide a durable, clear protective finish for wooden decorations, guarding against water damage and discoloration.
- Varathane Water-Based Polyurethane
- Ranking: 4/5
- Estimated Pricing: $15 – $25 per quart
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Wood Preservatives
Wood preservatives prevent decay, rot, and insect infestation, enhancing the longevity of your wooden Halloween decorations.
- Woodlife Classic Wood Preservative
- Ranking: 4/5
- Estimated Pricing: $20 – $30 per quart
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Linseed Oil
Linseed oil provides a natural protective finish for wood, repelling water and minimizing weather-induced damage.
- Watco Danish Oil
- Ranking: 3/5
- Estimated Pricing: $13 – $26 per quart
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Foam Decoration Protection
Exterior Foam Coating
Exterior foam coatings offer a durable and weather-resistant finish for foam decorations, effectively shielding them from rain and other elements.
- Exterior Foam Coat
- Ranking: 5/5
- Estimated Pricing: $10 for 3 lbs.
- Where to Buy: Hot Wire Foam Factory
Plastic Coating
Styroplast is a brush-on urethane coating offering lightweight, impact, and fire resistance for foam decorations. It’s quite easy to use and extremely durable.
- Styroplast
- Ranking: 4/5
- Estimated Pricing: $115 for 12 lbs.
- Where to Buy: Hot Wire Foam Factory
Flexible Sealants
Flexible sealants protect foam decorations by providing a weather-resistant, flexible barrier that expands and contracts with changing temperatures.
- Smooth-On UreCoat
- Ranking: 4/5
- Estimated Pricing: $33 per pint
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Foam Glaze
Foam glazing gives a tough finish that doesn’t easily chip or crack, and you can smooth or carve it for more details. It’s versatile, resistant to water, and perfect for foam, wood, and concrete surfaces.
Cardboard Decoration Protection
Clear Sealant Spray
Clear sealant sprays offer a protective layer against moisture and help maintain the structural integrity of cardboard decorations.
- Rust-Oleum Clear Gloss Spray
- Ranking: 4/5
- Estimated Pricing: $10 – $12 per can
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Cardboard Varnish
Cardboard varnish protects against humidity and provides a glossy finish, enhancing the appearance of your cardboard Halloween decor.
- Mod Podge Spray Acrylic Sealer
- Ranking: 4/5
- Estimated Pricing: $10 – $12 per can
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Cardboard Lacquer
Lacquer sprays add a protective coat, providing a glossy finish and guarding cardboard decorations from moisture and dust.
- Rustoleum Acrylic Enamel Spray
- Ranking: 4/5
- Estimated Pricing: $10 – $12 per can
- Where to Buy: Amazon
PVA Glue Coating
Applying a coat of water-resistant PVA glue on cardboard provides protection against moisture and adds strength to the structure.
- Elmer’s Waterproof Wood Glue
- Ranking: 3/5
- Estimated Pricing: $10 – $30 per gallon
- Where to Buy: Amazon
Final Tips for Protecting Your Halloween Decorations
- Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always adhere to the recommended application instructions provided by the product manufacturer to achieve the best results and ensure the effectiveness of the protective coatings.
- Test in a Small Area: Before applying any protective product, perform a test in a small, inconspicuous area of your decoration to ensure compatibility and the desired finish.
- Reapply as Needed: Depending on the weather conditions and usage, reapply the protective coatings periodically to maintain the integrity and longevity of your Halloween decorations.
- Store Indoors When Possible: To prolong the life of your decorations, store them indoors when not in use, especially during inclement weather.
- Get Creative with Combining Products: Don’t hesitate to use a combination of protective products for enhanced durability and weather resistance, especially for high-impact areas of your decorations.
By investing in the right protective products and following these guidelines, you can ensure that your homemade Halloween decorations made from wood, foam, or cardboard remain spooky and intact for years to come.
Happy decorating!
If you get stuck and need more direction, please post a comment below or in the Halloween Forum Facebook Group where I’ll help you get free assistance with any Halloween project you’re working on.
