Treatment FAQ

what is the best surface treatment for exterior redwood decks

by Tania Gutmann Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The best option for a new redwood deck is to choose an oil-based or alkyd-based tinted penetrating sealer. Penetrating sealers protect the wood better than film finishes like paint because they wear naturally instead of cracking.

Best Redwood Sealer
  • Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain and Sealer – (Best Redwood Stain and Sealer)
  • Roxil Wood Protection Cream – (Best Redwood Deck Stain & Sealer)
  • Hope's Pure Tung Oil Sealer – (Best Redwood Fence Sealer)
  • TotalBoat Clear Penetrating Epoxy Wood – Best Wood Stain for Redwood.
Nov 18, 2021

Full Answer

What is the best finish for a redwood deck?

  • Cabot is a blend of resin and oil, thus offers a superior natural finish on bar wood.
  • It accentuates the wood grain, which enhances the wood’s beauty.
  • You can get the formula in 5 toned wood colors, thus, appropriate for more wood projects.
  • It is water repellent and thus preserves the wood from rotting.

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How to finish a redwood deck?

Sand the Deck

  • Use an orbital sander to remove any old gloss and smooth out any rough areas on decking boards.
  • You may need to use a sanding sponge on the railings or balustrades.
  • Use 60- or 80- grit sandpaper on the main deck boards, and use 80- or 100-grit on the handrails.

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What is the best treatment for a wood deck?

Thoughts about the Right Cleaning Agent?

  1. Sodium hydroxide or lye is a very common element that helps to deal with finish lifting or removing. You can’t keep them for a long time though. ...
  2. Sodium hypochlorite is more commonly known as chlorine bleach. These are great for mildw removal. ...
  3. Oxalic acid is a great agent for cedar and redwood decks. ...

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How do you clean a redwood deck?

  • Inspect The Deck: First of all, examine all the areas of the deck. ...
  • Sink Nails & Screws: The next step is to sink all the nails as well as the screws. ...
  • Remove Dirt & Grease: After that, get rid of the dirt as well as a grease with the help of a power washer. ...

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What should I put on my redwood deck?

The best option for a new redwood deck is to choose an oil-based or alkyd-based tinted penetrating sealer. Penetrating sealers protect the wood better than film finishes like paint because they wear naturally instead of cracking.

What is the best treatment for redwood?

Use oxalic acid for redwood color restoration in this case. Simply wash the redwood's surface with a mixture containing one cup of TSP, one cup of household bleach and a gallon of water. Rinse well, then dissolve four ounces of oxalic acid crystals in a gallon of warm water and apply to the structure.

How do you protect outdoor redwoods?

Here are 5 key ways that you can protect your redwood structure year round.Remove debris and repair. ... Check for any structural damage and repair loose boards. ... Scrub your fence clean. ... Apply a protective seal. ... Keep structure clear of vines and away from sprinklers.

Should I seal my redwood deck?

This not only makes the deck more beautiful (an important effect, since it's a definite value to your home), but it will make the deck last longer and wear better. What is this? In short, doing a good job in staining and sealing a redwood deck is an asset to your yard and to the quality of your life.

How do you brighten a redwood deck?

1:574:07How to Brighten Your Deck Without Bleach - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd this is where Dec brightening treatments can help mold stain eraser comes as a powder that youMoreAnd this is where Dec brightening treatments can help mold stain eraser comes as a powder that you mix with warm water let the mixture sit for 10 minutes after it dissolves.

Is Penofin good for redwood?

Penofin provides the perfect line of products to maintain the elegance and purity of redwood. Choose from the top redwood finishing choices Penofin Red Label and Penofin Blue Label. Both have deep penetrating oil and high levels of UV protection that will enhance and preserve the beauty of redwood.

What is the best oil to use on redwood?

We feel that the best finish for redwood furniture is natural tung oil. While this finish isn't as durable or glossy as an epoxy or resin finish, it's easy to maintain and highlights the color and character of the wood. Tung oil gives burl wood furniture a natural look and feel.

Can you use tung oil on redwood?

He recommended finishing with a mixture of equal parts linseed oil, tung oil and turpentine. He told me that the mixture was the old “redwood” technique. I'm building a table top with some of it. I tested the mixture on some scraps and it's gorgeous but too dark.

Can you use linseed oil on redwood?

linseed oil, are not recommended on exterior redwood as they tend to promote mildew growth. Quality oil-based finishes, including those based upon linseed oil, contain mildewcides, and are appropriate for use on exterior redwood.

How do you keep redwoods from turning GREY?

Apply a water-repellent sealant with a UV-inhibitor to the redwood. Use a bristle brush and try to avoid lap marks. Transparent stains can be used for newer wood, but if the deck has aged some or you needed to replace some planks with new ones, use a semitransparent stain.

Is it better to stain or seal a deck?

Deck sealing will protect the wood from splitting, cracking, moisture, mildew, and rot while maintaining the color and grain of the wood. A stain will protect the wood and provides a more uniform tint or color to the wood to complement surrounding structures.

When Should I seal my redwood deck?

Which product would you recommend to clean a redwood deck and what sealant should I use? I like a clear, natural finish. A: You're right at the outside edge there. If a redwood deck gets a fair amount of sun, it should be cleaned and resealed at least every second year.

How long does it take for a wood deck to dry before applying a coat of sand?

It also works on other wood applications such as decks, wood patio furniture, railings, and shingles. For better results, allow the area to dry at least 24 hours before you coat. Lightly sand to remove remaining wood fibers and apply with a pad applicator, high-quality pump sprayer, or polyester brush.

What is staining a deck?

Staining is a crucial practice that will help enhance the deck’s beauty and give it a long life. The stains are easy to use, and whether you are a woodworking professional or you just started, you can comfortably handle one.

What is ready seal?

The Ready Seal product is a modern, unique formula that perfectly works both as a stain and sealer. This attribute saves you the inconvenience of having multiple solutions for staining and sealing your redwood deck. The color requires no dilution or thinning before spraying applications; thus, convenient and uncomplicated.

What is Cabot wood?

Cabot is a blend of resin and oil, thus offers a superior natural finish on bar wood. It accentuates the wood grain, which enhances the wood’s beauty. You can get the formula in 5 toned wood colors, thus, appropriate for more wood projects. It is water repellent and thus preserves the wood from rotting.

Does Cabot stain redwood?

A stain can only be said to do a perfect job if it penetrates deeply into the wood to give a beautiful finish. Well, Cabot has this fantastic quality and transforms your Redwood into an attractive piece of art. It penetrates the wood and has linseed oil that beautifies the surface. The lightly pigmented solution also allows the texture, grain, and wood color variations to show through.

Does Olympic stain work on vertical surfaces?

Olympic Stain Maximum Wood Stain works well on exterior horizontal and vertical surfaces. It protects the wood from water and sunlight by waterproofing it and blocking UV rays. The formula also conditions the wood fibers so that their natural beauty lasts longer.

Is a stain waterproof?

The formula is waterproof, thus keeps the wood safe from water damage. It soaks deeply into the wood and lasts longer than other stains. After application, the stain cures into a smooth, even finish. It is excellent for renewing and refreshing exterior wood surfaces.

How to remove stubborn build up on wood?

Stubborn build-up can be removed by scrubbing with a bristle brush with a solution of warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse afterward. Splash lines can be minimized by an occasional hosing of the unaffected area, which will even the appearance of the wood.

How to get rid of mildew on wood?

Severely infested areas may appear uniformly gray or black. To remove a mild case of mildew, scrub with a mild cleanser or detergent. Next rinse with a household bleach to kill surviving spores. Lastly rinse with water.

How to kill mildew with a brush?

For severe mildew infestations, scrub with a stiff bristle brush using a solution of one cup of trisodium phosphate, one cup of liquid household bleach and one gallon of warm water. Rinse thoroughly. If necessary, follow with an application of 4 ounces of oxalic acid crystals dissolved.

Is redwood a maintenance free wood?

Redwood Exterior Finishing tips. by Charlie Burgas October 14, 2019. California redwood is one of nature’s most maintenance-free building materials. It has a natural resistance to decay and insects. Redwood’s natural stability means it shrinks, warps, and splits less than most other woods. In addition, no other wood takes ...

Can you use steel wool on wood?

Don’t use wire brushes or steel wool as metal particles may become embedded in the wood and can cause stains. Use stiff bristle brushes. Use finishes recommended for wood exteriors. Follow manufacturer’s directions and read warnings on toxicity. Don’t mix incompatible materials.

Can you use boiled linseed oil on redwood?

Pure oil-treatments such as boiled linseed oil, are not recommended on exterior redwood as they tend to promote mildew growth. Quality oil-based finishes, including those based upon linseed oil, contain mildewcides, and are appropriate for use on exterior redwood.

Why is redwood used for decking?

Historically, redwood has been the most popular deck material because of these properties. However, because of a limited supply and environmental concerns , it is now less available and usually the most expensive option.

How many grades of redwood are there?

There are over 30 grades of redwood, varying in appearance and durability. Redwood can be ordered in standard dimensional lumber sizes. Kiln-dried is more expensive, but is more stable. It may be helpful for tight jointery like for rail parts. There are two principle grades: Architectural and Garden Grade.

What wood is resistant to wood boring insects?

It is very stable, straight and its heartwood is naturally resistant to wood boring insects and weathering without the use a preservative chemicals. Its fragrant, earthy reddish brown heartwood gives it its name. If left unfinished, redwood will initially turn black and then slowly turn into a silver gray.

How big are redwood trees?

These trees are truly giants - averaging 8 feet in diameter and reaching as much as 20 feet in diameter, some are as tall as 375 feet. That is taller than the Statue of Liberty. Redwood trees are absolutely the largest living thing on Earth. Some old-growth redwood trees are over 1,000 years old. Native to the moist foggy coast of the Pacific Northwest, redwood trees are legendary for their size and the quality of softwood they provide. Because of past exploitation and abusive logging practices such as clear-cut forests, redwood building materials still carry the stigma of an environmental tragedy.#N#There are only 1.74 million acres of redwood forests left. Today, strict logging restrictions have been enacted to protect old-growth stands and specimen trees for scientific research. More than 95% of the remaining ancient redwood forests are protected from harvesting. There are over 250,000 acres of protected redwood forests in our state and national park system. Law now requires that companies owning more than 50,000 commercial acres of redwood forests are required to prepare a sustained yield plan. These plans must adhere for an equal balance of growth and harvest over a 100-year period to achieve sustainability. Many strides have been made to protect what is left. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) now independently certifies four out of every five acres of commercial redwood forest.

What is clear heart wood?

Clear Heart – This is a premium grade that offers knot-free surfaces. Because of its high expense, it is usually only used for rails and trim on decks. Clear Heart grade contains no grading defects.

How many acres of redwoods are needed for sustainable growth?

Law now requires that companies owning more than 50,000 commercial acres of redwood forests are required to prepare a sustained yield plan. These plans must adhere for an equal balance of growth and harvest over a 100-year period to achieve sustainability. Many strides have been made to protect what is left.

Where do redwood trees come from?

Native to the moist foggy coast of the Pacific Northwest, redwood trees are legendary for their size and the quality of softwood they provide. Because of past exploitation and abusive logging practices such as clear-cut forests, redwood building materials still carry the stigma of an environmental tragedy.

What is an outdoor deck?

An outdoor deck serves as an extension of a home’s living space, offering a welcoming place to entertain and enjoy the outdoors. Applying a quality deck sealer will keep a deck looking its best for as long as possible.

What causes a wood deck to rot?

As with all things made of wood, a wood deck is subject to deterioration from exposure to the elements. Sun, rain, snow, and wind all take their toll, wearing away at the wood and leading to cracks, splinters, fading, and rot.

Why do I have headaches after using deck sealer?

This is due to fumes released by volatile organic chemicals (VOCs).

How long does it take for a deck sealer to dry?

Deck sealers vary in the amount of drying time they require. Many will dry to the touch within 1 to 5 hours, but humidity levels and outdoor temperatures can affect that time range.

How many coats of deck sealer should I use?

Most deck sealers require two coats for the best performance, though a few products can get the job done with just a single coat. That’s a big time-saver, although users will pay more for a single-coat sealer.

Why is it important to seal decking?

The best deck sealer protects from damage due to rot and unsightly mold or mildew while still allowing the wood’s natural grain and color to show.

Why seal a deck?

Deck sealer helps protect the wood from the damaging effects of moisture, including rain, snow, humidity, and sprinkler runoff.

How to sand redwood?

You can sand by hand or with an orbital or vibrating sander. Redwood sands easily.

How long does redwood furniture last?

Your Forever Redwood Furniture will last for decades in year-round weather with minimal maintenance. Depending on the wood grade you choose, under harsh year-round outdoor conditions, you can expect your furniture to last from ten to thirty years. Being outside year round is rough on any wood’s finish. The surface absorbs UV rays, pollution, ...

How do I clean a pergola?

Occasional cleaning will always spruce things up. Hose down and wipe it down with a rag and bucket of water. If you are cleaning a large pergola, use a soft brush first and then a wipe down with a rag to clean deeper.

How to get mold off of molding?

If you are in a very moist area or near water, you may have some molding issues come up every once in a while. It has a simple solution, water with a bit of bleach heavily diluted will kill it. Just spray on and wipe off. Can also use lime juice.

How long does it take to sand a bench?

For example, a typical bench takes 30 minutes to sand the most visible areas by hand. If you are a perfectionist and want to do every area thoroughly, figure 90 minutes.

Does redwood hold up to UV rays?

The surface absorbs UV rays, pollution, constant variations in moisture and temperature and it also oxidizes. This is why most wood just doesn’t hold up and the surface color slowly changes towards a silver patina as the finish fades. But, with Forever Redwood, you don’t have ...

Does forever redwood need to be replaced?

But, with Forever Redwood, you don’t have to worry about replacing your set after a few years. Redwood is the most decay resistant wood that grows in North America and we use the best sealant on the market to keep the gorgeous natural wood tones from fading quickly.

New Redwood Deck Staining Tips

DeckStainHelp.com has become the Internet’s go-to site for exotic wood deck staining tips. As with all different types of wood surfaces, we recommend you properly prep your redwood before staining in 2022. This involves allowing your redwood to weather for a few months prior to cleaning and brightening.

New Redwood Deck Staining Help and Tips

The natural beauty of redwood can make for a gorgeous deck that any homeowner would be proud of. Redwood is not as readily available as other types of wood, which makes it more expensive. But the cost can be justified by the beauty and longevity of the wood. A redwood deck can last for many years.

What is the best way to stain redwood?

A high quality product like Preserva Wood with high UV protection and water repellent will give the best results. Use a brush or a roller to apply the stain to your redwood structure.

What kind of wood is used for A&J fencing?

A&J Fencing uses redwood for our projects because it is the best and longest lasting material for a wooden deck or fence. Our redwood is cut thicker than the average fencing wood and we bring it in directly from the mill.

How to fix a loose board?

This is best done by using a metal putty knife; don’t use anything sharp like a knife that could knick your boards. Then use a brush or leaf blower to clear any leftover debris . Check for any structural damage and repair loose boards.

What is the best sealer for a redwood deck?

The best option for a new redwood deck is to choose an oil-based or alkyd-based tinted penetrating sealer. Penetrating sealers protect the wood better than film finishes like paint because they wear naturally instead of cracking.

Do you need to seal redwood decking?

Lighter redwood timber should be sealed with an oil-based stain.

How often should I reseal a redwood deck?

A: You’re right at the outside edge there. If a redwood deck gets a fair amount of sun, it should be cleaned and resealed at least every second year. If it’s mainly shaded and you haven’t developed mildew, you can get by with doing it every three years.

What is the best way to clean a deck?

Although we continue to believe that the best way to clean a deck is with a pressure washer, a stiff-bristle brush and plenty of elbow grease will do the job, especially if cleaning is done regularly.

Is sealing a deck a maintenance program?

Cleaning and sealing should be viewed as a regular maintenance program and will prolong the life of the deck as well as maintain its look. Although we’ve addressed this subject many times, a quick refresher course is in order. For longevity and aesthetics, apply a preservative to outdoor wood.

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