How do I waterproof my outdoor deck?

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Apply a thin, even coat of high-quality, mold- and mildew-resistant, waterproof sealant with UV protection, such as Woodsman® Water Repellent or Woodsman® Wood-Toned UV Wood Sealer and Protector, using a stain brush, in the direction of the boards.



Simply so, what is the best waterproof deck coating?

Ames® Super Elasto-Barrier® is an elastomeric waterproof rubber basecoat for concrete, plywood and hard-to-stick surfaces. A water-based, liquid dual-rubber coating used primarily for roof and deck waterproofing applications.

Furthermore, how much does it cost to waterproof a deck? If you decide to restore your deck yourself, the stains and sealers can cost between $20 and $40 per gallon. Waterproofing costs between $10 and $20 per gallon.

Similarly, it is asked, how often do you need to waterproof a deck?

Applying a sealer and/or stain typically is recommended every one to three years, depending on the finishing product, deck use, weather conditions, and sun exposure.

When Should I seal my deck?

The wood on a new deck needs to dry thoroughly before sealing or staining. If the wood came still wet with preservative, allow it to dry about 30 days before applying stain or sealer. To test the wood to see if it's dry enough to stain or seal: Pour a little water on the wood.

28 Related Question Answers Found

How do you apply deck sealer?

Apply the deck sealer with a natural bristle brush. A roller is faster, but brushing helps force the sealer into open pores and grain. Make sure to get the sealer into joints where two boards butt together. Apply the deck sealer to three or four boards at once, working their entire length.

What is Deck Water Seal?

Deck Water Seal. In an inert gas system onboard Tanker ships, Deck water seal is the principal barrier. A water seal is fitted which permits inert gas to be delivered to the deck main but prevents any backflow of cargo gas even when the inert gas plant is shut down.

Should I waterproof my deck?

Continued moisture will eventually lead to mold and mildew forming on your walls and even the very foundation of your home. The general rule of thumb is to get your deck waterproofed once a year, especially if you live in areas that see a lot of rainfall.

Is Thompson Water Seal good for decks?

A new Waterproofing Stain from industry leader Thompson's WaterSeal can not only protect your deck from further damage, but also add rich, beautiful color. It's a one-step product. Stains with more pigment will last longer, but show less of the natural wood grain.

Is it better to seal or stain a deck?

Surfaces such as decks, wood siding, fences, and so on need a protective coating to keep from weathering so fast. A deck sealer is typically a clear or transparent finish that either penetrates into the wood or forms a clear film on top. A deck stain has the same water-resistant qualities that a deck sealer does.

What is the best wood deck sealer?

Here are some of the best deck sealers on the market:
  • Thompsons Waterseal Advanced Natural Wood Protector.
  • ECO-SAFE Wood Treatment – Stain & Preservation by Tall Earth.
  • Rust-Oleum Coppercoat Wood Preservative.
  • CabotStain Australian Timber Oil Penetrating Oil.
  • Thompsons Waterseal – Transparent Stain.

What kind of paint do you use on a deck?

Most deck paints are 100% acrylic, and are designed to prevent cracking during temperature fluctuations. You can also get deck paint with a subtle non-slip texture in it—this is ideal for high-traffic areas and areas around pools. Deck paint is also mildew resistant, which helps protect the wood underneath.

How is wood waterproof?

There are three surefire ways to waterproof your wood for years to come.
  1. Use linseed or Tung oil to create a beautiful and protective hand-rubbed finish.
  2. Seal the wood with coating of polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer.
  3. Finish and waterproof wood simultaneously with a stain-sealant combo.

Can I waterproof plywood?


Many types of waterproofing are available to protect plywood. The most common type sold in home improvement stores is the paint-on or spray-on type of waterproofing. These typically are liquid latex substances applied to the surface of the plywood while wet. Once they dry, they form a plastic, protective layer.

How many coats of Thompson Water Seal do I need?

Thompson's WaterSeal Waterproofing Stains. Application: Only one coat is recommended for both Semi –Transparent & Solid. A second coat can be added if more color is desired. Allow the first coat to dry (approximately 2 hours) before second application.

Do I need to seal my deck every year?

Decks with a transparent stain should be coated with a sealer to extend the life of the wood. Semitransparent stains provide both color and protection of the wood, while still allowing some wood-grain to show through. Decks coated with a semitransparent stain should usually be recoated every year.

Can you spray Thompson Water Seal?

Answer: The manufacturer of Thompson Water Seal recommended that you use their product with a plastic sprayer with a brass wand, such as our Chapin Premier sprayer. Once you are done with the product, it is recommended that you run mineral spirits through the sprayer and then water to clean it.

Can you apply Thompson's Water Seal to wet wood?

Thompson's® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Stains can be applied to damp wood, so you only have to wait about two hours to begin applying stain. Some of our other products require that the wood dry for 48 hours before applying a deck coating.

Can you use Thompson Water Seal over stained wood?


Thompson's® WaterSeal® Waterproofing Stains can be applied to damp wood, so you only need to wait approximately two hours before applying the stain. However, some other products require that the wood dry for about 48 hours before applying a deck coating.

How often should you stain and seal a deck?

Most pros recommend you restain a horizontal surface every two to three years. That said, properly preparing, cleaning and drying the surface before applying a stain will yield the best results for the stain to last at least that long. You want to make sure there are no traces of sealant present on the deck.