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Deck Stain Questions and Answers
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Topic starter
26/06/2023 7:36 pm
Hello Scott
We live in Illinois, have 17 year old (2 new pieces), pressured-treated decks, part shade/sun, no mold/mildew. Previous stains have always peeled. Last was Behr Premium! semi-transparent which came off few months during snow. So now its our 1st time using cleaner and brightener chemicals for prep: we have orbital sanded down to bare wood, stripped whole deck to try to get rid of stuck stain (did not work), dried and sanded even more, cleaned and brightened. Is splotchy now so thinking have to do more brightener (faulty pump sprayer). Rain for past few days, but if you think this might be is ready after more brightener, we are now trying to confirm the stain choice. I thought you were recommending the 'penetrating oils' to your readers . But now I see you are also recommending the Restore a Deck water-based penetrating stain.
Which might be best for our situation?
27/06/2023 11:11 am
You do want a penetrating stain so that you do not repeat the issues you have had. RAD Stain, Armstrong Clark, or TWP 1500 Series for IL would work and are penetrating. If you want oil-based, then the AC or TWP 1500.
What are you doing with the railing that has not been stripped? You might want to consider a two toned deck.
Topic starter
27/06/2023 4:31 pm
Thank you! So, which would you recommend, the oil based or just a water-based, penetrating stain? I thought I had understood your findings that oil based would be less maintenance each year? Less maintenance is the goal. We would appreciate to know what you would suggest though: your top choice is TWP 100 oil which looks like we can’t use here in IL? — so your next top recommendation(s)?
Then should we do a semitransparent?
But first apply brightener again or not worry about blotchy spots?
The non stripped railing elements yes will remain and get maintained as is since that stain application is working.
Topic starter
28/06/2023 12:30 pm
Thank you! What are the main differences between TWP 1500, RAD stain and Armstrong Clark besides price?
28/06/2023 12:39 pm
Best to read the reviews: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Topic starter
01/07/2023 2:28 pm
I hear you say water or oil based doesnt matter, just quality and penetrating stain type is the key. Is it true though that oil would be better for older wood -- like 17 years. And I wonder if oil gives a more matte finish?
Thank you
Topic starter
01/07/2023 2:33 pm
And if replacing 2 deck boards with new wood, do we just do the prep on them in 4 months, in place on the deck, amongst the other fresh stained boards? What's the best process there if they are not aged/weathered yet (probably going with TWP 1500).
