1. SLC, UT
2. Partial Shade
3. Redwood
4. New deck, No Mold or Mildew Issues
5. New Deck
Just built new 12'x14' redwood deck here in SLC, UT (snow in winter, moderately hot in summer). Most of the redwood decking was installed at least a month ago.
How long should I wait for the deck to weather? I was thinking maybe the end of the summer (middle of August), that would give the deck a little over 3 months of weathering.
I would like to use TWP, Defy, or Armstrong deck stains. My brother tells me that Deckscapes and Messmer stains are formulated for this area (4 seasons), but they don't have good reviews on this site. Also, I've read that timber oil is good for new wood.
And finally, can I install aluminum railing first and leave the 4" x 4" under the posts unsealed?
3+ Months
Use Armstrong Clark or Defy. Messmers is form your area and may work fine there. Stay away from SW.
Yes can leave the 4x4 unsealed for now.