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Deck Stain Questions and Answers
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Topic starter
05/12/2013 10:41 pm
although likely obvious to most, I'm a little confused..
What exactly is the difference between sealer and stain?
I notice all the reviews are for stain, is that correct?
I have a deck with redwood railings and support structures that has never had anything applied to it.
I just finished power-washing it with water only, and it looks very nice, however, it is now time to apply protection (it's been unprotected for three years since it was installed - never got around to it)
climate is southern California maritime climate: sunny days afternoon, with lots of inversion layer in the warmer months for half-the day. Roof top deck, fully exposed.
once again, only railings and railing posts are redwood, surrounding a Jacuzzi deck with polymer coating on the flat surface.
I thought a tinted-sealer was the way to go, but I see no sealers on this site...or are all of these reviewed products sealers as well?
thanks
06/12/2013 2:56 pm
Stains are sealers. Stains will have different amounts of pigments. This article may help:
DECKSTAINHELP.COM What is best is a tinted penetrating semi-transparent stain. Look at the Defy Extreme, TWP 1500, or Armstrong Clark for Cali.
Topic starter
06/12/2013 3:41 pm
brilliant - that article did clear things up somewhat. While the three you listed have the best reviews, it would appear very few retailers carry them, but if it's worth a 35 mile drive for these stains, then I shall do so. The Penofin line is the only decently rated stain available at a local retailer.
thanks
08/12/2013 6:25 pm
I bought 5 gal of Armstrong Clark from the mfg. They were able to ship it to me. Worth the extra trouble for me. I also used the Restore-A-Deck cleaner and brightener kit mentioned here. Also worth it. Here're the results.
