Hello,
I am building a 1,400 sq. ft deck with pergola. We are at 6,500 feet in northern New Mexico with 326 days of full sun, only 12" of rainfall per year. The deck will be pine. We have no mildew problems here. NM has no VOC laws.
I have seen no decently finished deck here and know of no one who is satisfied with their deck treatment in this extremely bright sun.
What is the best deck finish for my location?
Thank you for your attention in this matter.
Gene So
With your high UV index and full sun you will alwsy need to refinish sooner than others. Best for you would be:
-Penetrating Oil based stain
-Darker or Richer colors that will fight UV longer.
-Stain that can be reapplied without heavy sanding.
Look at the TWP 100 Series in a darker color or the Armstrong Clark in a semi-solid color.
Read this about new wood as well: http://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/