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Porches & Decks

Re-staining Deck with long term solution

15 years ago

Need some help and advice. 2006...new 20 x 12 deck PT pine, southern exposure, stained with Cabot Clear Solution, brushed on, beautiful finish. Did all by myself! Very pleased with little bad self.

Today 2009....deck has weathered, turned gray, no longer beads water, in dire need of re-sealing.

Problem: want to use solid stain or semi solid stain in some agreeable color. How do I tell how much of the Cabot is still on the deck? Currently only under the door mat looks like it did in 06. What problems will I face if I use a solid stain? Can I get a sheen with a solid stain?

Oh by the way, I am a 60 year old lady and this may be the last time I am able to do it my self. Looking for as long a solution as possible.

Any recommendations, ideas, etc???

Appreciate all the info.

Murphy

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Comments (2)

cassma
15 years ago
I came to these boards for similar advice/info. I've always gotten good info on gardenweb and hoping to be steered right again...

We are also looking to use the Cabot solid stain over previous stain (I think it was oil based,semi-transparent, not Cabot brand).

I'm sure people will recommend you powerwash, maybe sand and then use Cabot Problem Solver before you stain. Maybe even prime too???

If I may add MY question (and maybe you know the answer) WHICH Cabot Solid do I want to use? The Acrylic Solid Decking Stain? The Oil-Based Solid Decking Stain?

We also have southern exposure (deck is pressure treated decking, cedar rails and is about 8 years old). I think that we will probably rip out the deck in a few years and put in a patio, so we want something that will last a few years...
murphy_zone7
Original Author
15 years ago
Cassma
Thanks for the response. Evidently I didn't make it clear what I was looking for or maybe what I would like does not exist. Anyway...I have done further research and these are my conclusions:
1. Nothing is going to last more than a couple of years at the most. When I am unable to do it myself, I will have to hire someone.
2. I don't really like the look of solid stain so will go with Cabots semi transparent oil based stain.
3. I found a new to me tool that will enable me to apply the stain without having to be on my hands and knees brushing it on. It is by Wagner and looks kinda like a swiffer mop with a tank to hold solution. It has a felt like pad and a small brush to get between the boards. You stand up and apply like mopping. Wonder if anyone has used it before?
As you say, I will powerwash and get it as clean as possible before applying the new stain.
I also know that you need several days of clear weather before you start this project. The deck has to dry before the stain can be applied and then the stain has to dry thoroughly before it rains!!! Outside temperature should ideally be in the 70's with no freezing or heavy dew.
Deck staining IS an art if you want it to last and look good.
Again...hope this helps you with your project.
Murphy
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