Hmmmm... I'm not sure if this would count as "promoting a business" here?!?!!?...so I'm kinda reluctant to actually post a link. However, since I've been describing products for some time now, and mention C2 paints (& others...), maybe it's OK??? Our Hardware store doesn't have a site by itself. 99% of the stores are Sporting Goods. We're the "rogue", and only mentioned on the the description-link below. It's kinda neat this time of year... *Lotsa L&G furniture is being put out, LOTS of mowers of all sizes on display. * Womens clothing has spring outfits up front now, new furniture coming in frequently. * Lawn-fertilizer pallets, seeds, bug/weed-controls, watering-stuff, and a big new Stihl display-area is almost done. * In BBQ...many new grills being put out, along with some new built-in stuff... * Service-shop/Rentals/Parts-counter coming off a very busy winter of fixing snowblowers, etc. Now, it's getting all the spring equipment fixed for people! * In my good-ol' Paint area...gettin' ready to order Outdoor stains in larger amounts, and just the general Spring-rush merchandise readying! (assuming our upcoming Flood-repeat doesn't slow things down too much. It's been melting slow though!!) Faron Here is a link that might be useful: Hardware link...

As a professional contractor there are several factors when deciding on a stain and the process used. Before applying a new stain, the existing stain needs to be removed. If its the same type of stain with the same color and its completely run its course, (usually within 2-3 years) then you can just clean and re-apply over that existing stain. If your changing colors or type of stain, it needs to be completely removed. The best method for applying stain is the old fashion way, by brushing. I dont recommend rolling or spraying for three reasons. One, the prep time needed with taping off and covering areas etc. which can take several hours. Two, when rolling or spraying you have to back brush anyway so the labor time spent is just as long and three, it simply looks much better. Always try to stick with oil based semi-transparent stains. They are the easiest to remove and re-apply, they look the best and provide the best type of coverage for both UV and water protection. Finally, the best overall professional grade wood preservative or sealant is TWP. Comes in several colors, provides a lower VOC and applies like warm butter. The cleaning and prep process is more important than applying the stain itself so be sure you properly clean the wood with an oxygenated bleach (DO NOT USE CHLORINATED BLEACH). Its a powder form that can be easily mixed into a 5 gal. bucket of water. Spray on with a garden sprayer, let dwell about 15-20 minutes then rinse off at low pressure with a pressure washer (800-1000psi). Second step is to neutralize the cleaner with a wood brightener. Spray on with a garden spray, wait 5 min. then rinse off. You will be amazed that when you apply the brightener wood will literally lighten in front of your eyes. This brings the wood back to its natural PH and that is a critical step often missed. After you have rinsed (and be sure you rinse thoroughly) let dry for 48-72 hours then apply the stain. ONE COAT ONLY! Today's stains only need one coat applications especially oil based stains. Hope this helps...good luck with your project! Here is a link that might be useful: Professional Power Washing Contractor

always wondered if you can put ipe oil on pine...hows it looking after time?

I used semi transparent Arborcoat on my deck rail and pergola in the Caribbean four or five years ago. It gets full sun all day every day except when we have storms and I am amazed at how well it's held up. As I recall, we had to apply 2 coats in a few spots where the lumber sucked it up, but no clearcoat at all. As for maintenance: I hose it off occasionally. The turquoise Aura I put on the adjacent walls the same week still looks like the day I put it on, too. (full disclosure: we own a BM dealership, but I was reluctant to use two new products the week we got them in because the BMoore stain & paint I'd used for years was really good. "But we have to see it" said my husband and I'm thrilled with both.)