Replies

1. 
   gpasewicz | Oct 28, 2003 07:57pm | #1

   I used Thompson's Water Seal Translucent Stain on our deck that, like yours, had not been properly maintaned before I got to it.  I didn't strip off the previous finish and didn't notice any problems at all in that.   It was a different color and turned out as advertised.

   I haven't tried brands other than Thompson's, and my understanding is that Thompson's is an under-performer.  That being said,  I've also used Thompson's on untreated lumber (regular old 2x4s) that have been exposed to weather for 3 years and they're showing no signs of deterioration.

2. 
   YesMaam27577 | Oct 28, 2003 08:27pm | #2

   The process is easy to describe, and maybe to do.

   First, remove and replace any soft or rotted decking. Then clean the deck. Lots of products are available -- pick one and do it (I've not used the Behr that you mention, but it is probably as good as many others). Don't use a pressure washer, because it will damage the wood. When the cleaning is done, you will (hopefully) have a deck that looks much like a new one.

   Let all that dry out for a few days. That gives you some time to decide on what stain to use. For decking, use a translucent stain. I prefer the ones that are linseed-oil-based, because they are really good for the wood. But lots of decks out there have lots of water-based stuff on them too.

   As for the railings -- a white opaque stain will do the trick.

   Vast projects should not be founded on half vast ideas.
3. 
   stancalow | Oct 29, 2003 03:56am | #3

   August 2003 issue of Consumer Reports gives a report on the long-term testing of deck stains.  Check at your local library. 

4. 
   gpasewicz | Oct 29, 2003 04:25pm | #4

   In terms of pressure washing--I did it on the cheap and used a garden hose, a scrub brush, and a bucket of water with Dawn dish detergent.