Table of Contents
When should I apply sealant to my deck?
DO wait 30 days before sealing a new deck. If it beads up, the wood is still too wet to seal, but if the water is absorbed, it’s ready to seal. Be sure to apply sealant as soon as the wood is ready; leaving the deck exposed any longer increases the likelihood of both ultraviolet (UV) and moisture damage.
What is the best way to apply Thompson’s Water Seal to a deck?
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.
Is it better to stain or seal a deck?
Sealing a deck is best for cedar, teak, mahogany, or other quality woods as it enhances the wood grain and natural color. Staining a deck protects the wood from mold, mildew, moisture, and rot, and UV rays and sun damage.
What are the steps to seal a deck?
Applying Deck Sealer to a Wood Deck Step 1: Check the forecast. Step 2: Clear the deck. Step 3: Sand (if needed) Step 4: Remove debris. Step 5: Stir sealer. Step 6: Apply sealer. Step 7: Repeat & fine tune. Step 8: Let it dry.
How cold is too cold to seal a deck?
Don’t seal a deck below 50 degrees. A 65 degree day might easily become a 40 degree night, and your seal will be ruined. The warmth helps it to dry out faster and seal more effectively.
Can you apply water sealer with a roller?
Using a sprayer is the fastest way to get the job done, but if you don’t want to spend money on a sprayer, you can always use a roller or a paint pad, and you still will be fine.
How many coats of Thompson Water Seal do I need?
One coat is enough, but if more color is desired, a second coat can be applied within two hours before the first coat has dried. With Thompson’s® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Stains, you can clean your tools with soap and water.
Do you need to apply a sealer after staining a deck?
Most of the time, stains also contain a protective sealant. It’s a good idea, though, to re-seal your deck (or check that it needs to be re-sealed) once a year. Water-based stains can adhere to water or oil-based coatings already present on the wooden surface.
How often should you seal your deck?
When Should I Reseal My Deck? You should reapply wood sealer at least every three years. In many cases, you need to seal a wood deck once a year. The more foot traffic and sun exposure your deck gets, the more often you need to apply deck sealant.
Should you pressure wash your deck before staining?
There is a common misconception that just pressure washing a deck prior to staining is all you need to do in order to prep your deck for stain. Pressure washing can help, but if you want your stain to last, using a good deck cleaner and brightener on the deck prior to pressure washing will provide you the best result.
How soon can you seal pressure treated wood?
A newly built deck that uses pressurized wood will need time to dry completely before a sealer can be applied. The chemicals used to treat the wood leave moisture behind, and depending on the climate, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months until it’s dry enough to seal.
How long does deck sealer take to dry?
For best results, avoid staining at midday or in direct sunlight. If a second coat is required, wait 4 hours between applications. Depending on temperature and humidity, allow 24 – 48 hours of dry time before using your beautifully restored deck or porch.
What is the longest lasting deck sealer?
Q: What is the longest-lasting deck sealer? An oil-based deck sealer, such as Rust-Oleum Ultimate Spar Urethane, will protect a deck for up to 5 years.
Can you clear coat a deck?
Applying a clear sealer over a deck stain is never a good idea. It really won’t help the deck stain or give any added protection more than the deck stain already is. Clear sealers have no pigment and therefore provide zero UV protection.
What if it rains after I stain my deck?
If it rains within 48 hours after you apply the stain, the water will soak into the wood pores and try to displace the stain. This will result in a splotchy surface rather than an even tone. If it rains right after you apply the stain, the stain will peel and flake off.
Is it OK to stain deck in cold weather?
Avoid the Cold Low temperatures are also detrimental because they lengthen the drying time. If you’re staining your deck in the spring or fall, wait for a day with highs above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If it drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit before the stain has thoroughly dried, it can hinder the curing process.
Can you paint deck in winter?
If applied in cold weather, it tends to crack and chalk, allowing moisture in that does damage to the wood underneath. New paint technology is now making it possible to paint in cold weather that reaches nearly freezing conditions. This new type of acrylic-based paint allows for paint application down to 35 degrees.
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.
