I'm trying to figure out the best stain for my deck. It's a two story deck, about 500 sq ft on the second floor and another 1000 underneath. The second floor is mostly covered and the first floor only gets direct sun in the morning. It's all pressure treated wood. The deck itself is about 20 years old, though I just replaced about 2/3 of the boards. I think the older boards have a redwood tinted oil-based stain but not sure. My wife and I like the look of the cedar tone though. I've been looking at the Defy products but open to any suggestions.

Make sure to remove the Redwood stain first otherwise it will not look good when you apply a new stain. Using a wood stripper is the most common way

The Defy Extreme in Cedar Tone is the best of all the Defy brands.

Thanks

I have used Thompsons water seal on my deck for last 3 years. Redo every 18 months. Have both PT 2x6 and 6/5 decking. Grays quickly in strong sun and looses water resistance. Is your product line better at retaining color and water resistance? Used Cabbots on siding in past successfully. What would you use to preserve your deck? Have almost 3000 square feet and 400 linear ft of railing.

Well anything is better then Thompson's. I would look:

Armstrong Clark

or

TWP 1500 Series

Water repellency is a myth. It should not bead water but "shed" water. This allows the wood to breathe properly.

Thanks!

I have a deck I need to re-stain. I have had it stained twice previously. The first time, a contractor did it and it looked good for about a year and a half. I did it the second time, almost 3 years ago, with a stain, I forget the name, which Lowes said was the best stain they carry. I hand brushed and hand rolled the entire deck, the rails, spindles, steps, and deck surfaces. It needs it again this coming summer, so I intend to do it say in April - June of 2011. Can you please recommend what you consider to be the best stain, easiest to apply, longest lasting.

I would like to buy a pressure pumps, the top of the line.

Can you please help me out with these questions? I look forward to your recommendations,

The Chapin Heavy Duty Sprayer is the best pump sprayer.

There is not a best or better then the rest stain. Certain stains though do better in different climates. I can help you narrow it down for you.

1. What state do you live in?
2. Mold or mildew issues?
3. Full sun, partial, or shade?
4. Wood type?
5. Will you be removing the previous stain?

Thanks!

Thanks for your reply; here is more info:


1. What state do you live in? Pennsylvania
2. Mold or mildew issues? no issues with mold
3. Full sun, partial, or shade? Mostly full sun, faces north, so better than half the day
4. Wood type? wood is construction type treated, looks to be pine; has been previously stained twice, and will be pressure washed again
5. Will you be removing the previous stain? I will pressure wash with a chemical from Lowes specifically for fences and decks, but entire amount of previous stain will not be removed

Thanks again for your help,

You are restricted to low VOC in PA. I would suggest one of these products:

TWP 1500 Series

Armstrong Clark

Defy Extreme Stain

For best results you should always remove the previous stain before re coating. Applying a stain over an old stain can cause adhesion and proper penetration issues. Best to shoot for 90% removal or more.

Thanks