I'm looking for advice on stains and sealers for pressure-treated wood decks. There are so many options to choose from—oil-based, water-based, semi-transparent, solid, you name it—and it's a bit overwhelming. If you've had a deck for over 5 years, I'd love to know: Which stain or sealer has best withstood the elements like sun and rain? How often do you have to reapply it? And are there any brands you think I should steer clear from? I'm eager to hear about your personal experiences!
1 Answer
I've been using the Thompson water sealer (the clear kind) on my pressure-treated deck every year after giving it a good cleaning. I've had my deck for 30 years and I've got some parts that are over 50 years old! It holds up pretty well in all types of weather, and I live in an area with drastic seasonal changes. Simple maintenance seems to go a long way!
That's amazing! 30 years is a long time. I didn’t realize that the Clear Thompson’s could last with just yearly applications. Do you see any significant graying or fading over the years, or does it keep the wood looking good?