Is it better to stain or water seal a deck?

The advantage of this, they say, is the sealer provides additional protection against water and weather damage, while the stain helps reduce fading from UV rays. Sealers should last at least a year, with some lasting up to three years.

Should I stain or seal my pressure treated deck?

Although treated wood is protected against decay and termite attack, the application of a water-repellent sealer to all exposed wood surfaces is recommended upon completion of construction. This sealer will help control surface checking (splitting or cracking) and provide an attractive appearance.

What is the difference between sealing and staining a deck?

While they exist, it's unusual to find a clear deck sealer with UV protection. The reason for this is that unlike stains, sealants often lack the pigmentation that naturally blocks UV rays. Stains are always pigmented—they both add color to the deck and protect against UV damage.

Can I seal my deck without staining?

Applying a transparent finish to the deck helps to protect it from the elements, and allows the wood to resist stains and dirt from setting in. It is highly unlikely that the deck will rot, splinter or decay if you choose not to have it finished and you can always choose to stain and protect the deck at a later date.

How long does water seal last on a deck?

If applied correctly, Water Seal will last up to 4 years. This is dependent on conditions such as orientation of the wall and local climate.

Deck Stain vs Seal

Is Thompson's Water Seal better than stain?

The advantage of this, they say, is the sealer provides additional protection against water and weather damage, while the stain helps reduce fading from UV rays.

Can I stain over Thompson's water Sealer?

Thompson's® WaterSeal® Wood Sealers 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.

When should you not stain a deck?

You want to apply the stain when the wood surface and air are in the temperature range of 50° – 90°F. You also want to avoid the direct application of sunlight. Lastly, do not apply a stain if there is a forecast of rain in the following one to two days, or all your hard work could end up being washed away.

What time of year should you stain a deck?

Because you want to wait for days that aren't excessively hot or humid, the best times to apply deck stains are in the late spring and early fall, when the weather is moderately warm and dry. Check the weather and find a time when it's not expected to rain for two days before and following the deck treatment.

Should I seal the underside of my deck?

If you stain the underside of your deck you create a barrier to moisture; however, this can actually trap moisture into your boards and cause them to rot at an alarming rate. This is because when you stain the underside of your deck, water can still get in from the nail or screw heads on the surface.

Should you stain or seal wood?

To properly answer your question of “Do you have to seal stained wood?”, the answer is no. However, if you want to protect your wood and give it a polished finish, it's smart to do so. It's worth taking the extra steps and applying a wood stain sealer.

What is the best thing to seal a deck with?

What goes on first stain or sealer?

The order which you apply stains and sealants varies on what you're currently working with. For the best performance, we recommend stain first, seal second, and apply Advance Topcoat third. This will provide the best protection of your home.

Is it better to brush or roll stain on a deck?

The first and most obvious reason to roll on deck stain as opposed to brushing it on is that the former allows you to cover a much larger surface area in less time. Rollers are wider, more efficient, and easier to operate. Additionally, using a roller helps you achieve a smoother finish.

Should I pressure wash my deck before I seal it?

Pressure washing is the best way to prepare your deck for sealing. After you've pressure washed your deck, you'll need to wait for it to completely dry. Sometimes, this can take as long as 48-hours. Once it's dry, you'll want to sand your deck lightly.

What happens if you don't stain a pressure treated deck?

Without stain, any type of paint or sealant, rainwater, dew or snow can easily penetrate the decking. The wood will then swell until it dries when it will shrink again. This pattern of swelling and shrinking can cause damage to the wood such as splits, checks, splinters, cracks, and other blemishes.

How many coats of stain should you put on a deck?

We always recommend two coats of stain for any wood project, but you should only apply as much stain as the wood can absorb. Extremely dense hardwoods may only be able to absorb one coat of wood stain. The general rule of thumb is to apply only as much as the wood can absorb.

Is it worth staining an old deck?

Staining a deck will lead to less work in the future. One of the main reasons the professionals don't recommend staining wood decks is because of the amount of time and energy involved. Stains don't generally last more than a year. This means yearly cleaning, staining and, if necessary, sanding of your deck every year.

How many gallons of stain do I need for a 20x20 deck?

To stain a 20x20 ft² deck area, you'll need approximately 2 and 1 quarter gallons (2.25 gal). You can get this result by assuming that 1 gallon can cover up to 175 ft². Also, consider this amount is for one coat of stain.

Is it OK to pressure wash a deck before staining?

Taking your time is key to power washing a deck successfully. Now that the wood has been cleaned and stripped of grime, you can sand it and apply your stain of choice. Power washing a deck before staining will allow the wood to absorb the stain better and deeper.

What can I use instead of staining my deck?

Composite decking is an ideal alternative to timber decking without need for staining. This is made from recycled wood and plastic components and all it requires is a little wash with soapy water if it gets dirty. This can take just a few minutes on a normal size decking area.

Is it OK to stain deck in the fall?

Fall is the perfect time to take on the task of staining your deck. Not only will you not roast in the sweltering summer temperatures, but the cooler fall weather is ideal for staining. Most deck stains recommend that they be used when outdoor temperatures are above 50 and below 90.

Should I water seal after staining?

You do NOT want to seal wood that is wet or tacky in any way. I like to wait 24-48 hours to let the stain dry before sealing. If it it very cold, hot, or humid, wait up to 72 hours.

Does Thompson's water seal make wood waterproof?

Thompson's® WaterSeal® Clear Wood Sealer provides waterproofing protection for exterior wood surfaces. The clear sealer enhances and maintains the wood's natural color.

How many coats of Thompson water seal do I need?

Apply 2 coats using brush,roller or sprayer. note: Use at full strength.do not dilute. The second coat should be applied when the first coat has soaked in the surface. For best results do not leave the first coat to dry for more than 1 hour before applying the second coat.