Hi: We have a seven year old red cedar deck. We have used Cabot deck stain...peeled off the very next year. Then used product by Flood, peeled again, and last time used Olympic solid color deck stain. Peeled again. We are so frustrated with what to use. Problem is on horizontal surfaces. We rented a power sander and stipped off old coating. Where do we go from here. We are senior citizens and this job is getting as old as we are!!! Help!! Thanks

We live in Frankfort, Il. (40 mi. from Chicago) and deck has a eastern exposure. Wood is not pressure treated, just red cedar.

Seems that you are using finishes that Film on top of the wood instead of penetrating completely. What you need is a transparent finish that absorbs very well. I would suggest either Armstrong Deck Stain or TheSealerStore Timberoil. Both contain paraffinic oil which has been known to penetrate very well. Make sure you clean and brighten to open the wood pores prior to staining.