QA

How To Waterproof A Deck

Installing a deck drainage system during construction is the best way to waterproof under your entire deck. A deck drainage system diverts water away from the joists and beams. An over-the-joist deck drainage system such as Trex RainEscape provides 100% protection from the damage caused by wood repeatedly getting wet.

How do you waterproof a wood deck?

Apply a thin, even coat of high-quality, mold- and mildew-resistant, waterproof sealant with UV protection, such as Woodsman® Water Repellent or Woodsman® Wood-Toned UV Wood Sealer and Protector, using a stain brush, in the direction of the boards.

How do you waterproof seal a deck?

Sealing Check the weather to be sure you’ll have temperatures between 50 and 90°F. This temperature range ensures the best seal. Clean off the deck surface — both furnishings and debris. Sand, if needed. Stir the sealer. Apply the sealer with a paintbrush, paint roller, or sprayer. Repeat and fine-tune. Let it dry.

Is it better to stain or seal a deck?

Sealing a deck is best for cedar, teak, mahogany, or other quality woods as it enhances the wood grain and natural color. Staining a deck protects the wood from mold, mildew, moisture, and rot, and UV rays and sun damage.

What is a good deck sealer?

Best Deck Sealers Thompsons Waterseal Advanced Natural Wood Protector. ECO-SAFE Wood Treatment – Stain & Preservation by Tall Earth. Rust-Oleum Coppercoat Wood Preservative. CabotStain Australian Timber Oil Penetrating Oil. Thompsons Waterseal – Transparent Stain.

How long does deck waterproofing last?

It also must be reapplied more often than most stains, typically every 2 to 3 years, depending on sun exposure.

Can you apply Thompson’s water seal to wet wood?

Thompson’s® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Stains can be applied to damp wood, so you only have to wait about two hours to begin applying stain. Some of our other products require that the wood dry for 48 hours before applying a deck coating.

Can you spray deck sealer?

An outdoor deck is more exposed than indoor wood, which means regular sealing is required to keep it protected. While you can apply the sealer by hand with a paintbrush, a sprayer is the much more efficient solution.

Should I waterproof my deck?

The general rule of thumb is to get your deck waterproofed once a year, especially if you live in areas that see a lot of rainfall. Another thing to consider is whether or not you live in an area that gets a lot of direct sunlight year round.

Should you pressure wash your deck before staining?

There is a common misconception that just pressure washing a deck prior to staining is all you need to do in order to prep your deck for stain. Pressure washing can help, but if you want your stain to last, using a good deck cleaner and brightener on the deck prior to pressure washing will provide you the best result.

Is Thompson’s water seal any good?

Overall Score Thompson’s® WaterSeal® at 2 Year Period: 6.125 – Overall Thompson’s® WaterSeal® Clear Plus wood finish is a “clear” disappointment. Any finish that offers zero ability to prevent UV graying should not be considered for your deck or exterior wood.

What is the longest lasting deck sealer?

Q: What is the longest-lasting deck sealer? An oil-based deck sealer, such as Rust-Oleum Ultimate Spar Urethane, will protect a deck for up to 5 years.

Should I seal pressure treated wood?

Although the wood is resistant to rot and insect attacks because of the pressure treatment, it can warp, split and develop mildew if not protected from the effects of water. Jul 3, 1992.

Do you have to seal a deck after power washing?

After completing the deck power washing, wait 24 to 36 hours before applying sealer. If the weather is cool or humid, wait 48 to 72 hours. The deck must be thoroughly dry to ensure deep penetration of the sealer.

What time of year should I seal my deck?

The general rule of thumb is that, if a deck is installed after August, you wait to seal it until the spring. You’ll know when your deck is completely dry because it will actually change in color from a greenish hue to one that is closer to beige, and the boards will have more space between them.

How much does it cost to waterproof a deck?

Cost to Seal a Deck Sealing a deck costs $896 or typically between $551 and $1,278. You’ll pay $0.75 to $4 per square foot for both materials and labor. Labor alone makes up 50% to 75% of the total price. Cost factors include regional worker rates, complexity, size, prep needs and accessibility.

How long does Thompson water seal last in the can?

How long will Water Seal last? If applied correctly, Water Seal will last up to 4 years. This is dependent on conditions such as orientation of the wall and local climate.

Can you spray Thompson’s water Seal on a deck?

To apply Thompson water seal with sprayer, start by cleaning the surface with Thompson’s water seal heavy-duty deck stain cleaner. Let the wood dry for about three to four hours, spray your Thompson’s waterproofing sealant on the entire deck.

Is Thompsons oil or water based?

Thompson’s® WaterSeal® Penetrating Timber Oil is an oil-based product that provides protection by penetrating into wood pores and sealing out water infiltration. Thompson’s® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Stains are water-based products that have film-forming properties to protect the wood by repelling water.

How much does a gallon of Thompson’s water Seal cover?

That determines how many gallons of stain are required (each gallon covers up to 400 square feet). You can buy it and be on your way. Thanks to its pigment-suspension technology, there’s no need to wait for the Waterpoofing Stain to have its turn in the paint shaker.