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Applying a sealer and/or stain typically is recommended every one to three years, depending on the finishing product, deck use, weather conditions, and sun exposure. All Thompson’s WaterSeal products are DIY-friendly, and most need only a single application on a clean, dry deck.
What temperature do you apply Thompson’s Water Seal?
Be sure that both surface and air temperatures are above 50°F during application and remain above 40°F for 48 hours after application. Do not apply product if rain is forecasted within 24 hours of application.
How long before rain can you apply Thompson’s Water Seal?
Don’t Forget to Read the Label It’s also a good idea to avoid windy and rainy days. Also, check the label for the recommended waiting time between deck cleaning and staining. Thompson’s® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Stains can be applied to damp wood, so you only have to wait about two hours to begin applying stain.
Can you apply Thompson’s Water Seal to wet wood?
Surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned prior to application with a deck cleaner (like those in the Thompson’s® WaterSeal® cleaner line) applied according to label directions and cautions. If surface is damp or wet from cleaning or weather, allow the surface to dry thoroughly (a minimum of 48 hours) before application.
What is the best way to apply Thompson’s Water Seal?
The fastest way to apply is with a pump-up sprayer (using a coarse setting), but you can also apply with a brush or a roller. You should apply liberally. In the case of areas with heavy discoloration or dirt, apply a second coat, brush lightly with a broom and hose off.
What temperature is too cold to stain a deck?
Avoid the Cold If you’re staining your deck in the spring or fall, wait for a day with highs above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, make sure freezing temperatures aren’t in the forecast for that night. If it drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit before the stain has thoroughly dried, it can hinder the curing process.
What time of year should I seal my deck?
Plan to seal your deck when temperature and time of day are ideal. Aim for a pleasant, not-too-windy day between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Get to work in the morning, as the hot sun of a summer afternoon can cause sealant to evaporate quickly, preventing adequate absorption.
How long does deck seal need to dry before rain?
Q: How long does the Deck Stain need to dry before it rains? Water-based or latex stains take 4 to 6 hours to dry thoroughly and prevent spots due to rain. On the other hand, oil-based stains should be dried for 12 to 24 hours before the rain comes.
How long does sealant take to dry before rain?
Driveway sealer needs to be allowed 4–8 hours to dry before rain. Longer cure times are better, as it takes upwards of 24 hours for driveway sealer to completely cure, but under good conditions, 4 hours of curing time will be enough for your new sealant to resist rain damage.
Can you seal a deck before it rains?
It is best to never stain any exterior wood when inclement weather is forecasted, especially rain. Most deck stain brands will warn against the application of their product within 12-24 hours of rain being forecast. You cannot do much until it stops raining once it starts.
Does wood need to be dry before sealing?
The wood on a new deck needs to dry thoroughly before sealing or staining. If the wood came still wet with preservative, allow it to dry about 30 days before applying stain or sealer. If the water is absorbed into the wood easily, it’s ready to seal or stain.
Can you seal damp wood?
The wood should be dry, clean, and contaminant-free. If you apply a sealer or stain over a damp or dirty wood, there will be no proper adhesion.
Can stain be applied to wet wood?
no. Most wood stains are oil-based and therefore will not bond well to a wet surface. If applied to wet woods, the stain will be thin and will eventually wash off after a few sizable rains. It is simply better to stain wood when dry.
Can you apply Thompson’s Water Seal with a brush?
Even if you don’t want to buy a garden sprayer, you can still use plenty of other tools. Paint rollers, paint pads, and brushes should still work just fine when you apply Thompson’s water seal.
Can you apply Thompson’s Water Seal with a pump up sprayer?
To apply Thompson’s water seal with a sprayer, you can use a garden sprayer with a hose or a pump sprayer. However, the manufacturer of Thompson’s water seal recommends that their product be used with a plastic sprayer and a brass wand.
Can I stain in 40 degree weather?
Wood stain works in a wide range of temperatures. Staining at temperatures ranging from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit usually works, but the optimal temperature is around the mid-70s, not too hot and not too cold. Give the wood time to warm up if it’s colder than the room air.
Can you stain a deck in the winter?
The air temperatures can be ideal to stain your deck in the fall. Most deck stains should not be applied in temperatures below 50 or above 90. Winter may fall below 50 in your area and for most regions in the country, summertime can see temperatures above 90.
How do you stain wood in cold weather?
I use an oil stain in cold weather all the time. As long as you let it dry overnight you shouldn’t have a problem. You could also use a alcohol based dye stain without any problems at all. It’s the finish you need to watch the temperature.
Is it better to stain a deck in the fall or spring?
Because stain requires a dry deck for a secure application, a week of dry fall weather is ideal for staining your deck than in summer or spring humidity. More specifically, the moderate temperatures of early fall are optimal for staining, as the later fall weeks may bring colder days that are too chilly for your stain.
When should I waterproof my deck?
The general rule of thumb is to get your deck waterproofed once a year, especially if you live in areas that see a lot of rainfall. Another thing to consider is whether or not you live in an area that gets a lot of direct sunlight year round.
What temperature can you seal a deck?
When to Seal Your Deck For clear sealer, the deck surface and air temperature must be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit during application and drying time. For deck stain, the deck surface and air temperature should be between 50 and 95 Fahrenheit for application and drying.
