Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Deck prep and staining advice needed ..

Hi,
I have obtained a lot of info from this forum but i am still a little confused :confused: as to the recommended products i should use in preparing my decks and staining them. I have both pressure treated wood and mahogany decks.

What i think i have learned is that i should use oxygen bleach to clean the deck (for grease, dirt, mold, mildew etc.) then apply a microporous penetrating sealer. Do the professionals agree with this? Do i need to apply any other products?

I have heard a lot of good things about Cabots, Sikkens, and Penofin sealers but i am yet to determine if these companies make a microporous penetrating sealer. Does anyone know if they do? and if they do what the respective product names are? Are there any other recommended sealers?

I am was thinking of using a transparent sealer on the horizontal surfaces and a solid sealer for the vertical surfaces. Can you buy solid penetrating sealers? Is this recommended or can you just use exterior paint?

I hope i have not asked too many questions! I am getting really frustrated. I want to start my projects but want to make sure i am using the right products before doing so.

Thanks. Andy

Some of your questions are a little too technical for me. Generally the more a sealer cost the longer it will last. A stain will seal the deck and any other surface. I would use a solid stain before using paint. Stains don't peel or need priming. The only mahogany I've worked with has been doors and trim so I can't advise there.

So no one can help?

Well what i have found out, is that most of the staining products found at HD or Lowes are not worth the money. Most of these stains are closed stains which prevents the wood from breathing and subsequently causes the wood to rot. In addition they are cheap and have a short life.

Most local hardware stores carry reputable stains that are microporous - and allow the wood to breath. I plan to use Sikkens for both a solid stain and a transparent and natural. The maintenance is also minimal - reapplying a coat every 24 months or so with little prep work involved.

check out sikkens site http://www.nam.sikkens.com/index-english.cfm and read application guide and the tech data sheet.

Another decent resource for an intro to wood decks, cleaning, and staining http://alsnetbiz.com/homeimprovement/faq1.html


Has anyone ever used Weather wax or Defy wood stains? I see them being marketed on the net only. Are they reputable?

here is a link to a very nice product that will work on what you have including the mahogany. Btw clear sealers on the floor are not the best option imo. the wood will weather and change color. As the pigment goes up usually the protection goes up as well. Ready seal does not require you to strip before recoating and is user friendly.

http://www.readyseal.com/FAQ.asp