Deck Sealer

[Razl]

I have a new mahogany deck and front porch that the contractor sealed with Penofin. It looks fantastic right now but I can already see some areas that are fading and graying after 4 months. He said Penofin was better than any stuff I could find at Lowes or HDepot but unfortunate, it's still an annual spring maintenance product.

I heard some people swear by the newer synthetic epoxy sealers but I'm still undecided. I'm tempted to use a Marine grade deck sealer but I don't think a shiny finish would look appropriate for home decking.

Part of me says I should have gone with composite decking, but I just love the natural grain look, so now I have to live with my choice.

 

[jmacmaster]

I recommend you buy, or go to the library and read, the July issue of Consumer Reports. They have a report on deck treatments. In my opinion, their test factors and method are excellent.

Generally, I think you'll find that no clear treatment (the kind that won't hide your mahogony wood's grain) is going to last more than a year. So, the trick is to find a way to apply it quickly and easily, so that its not such a chore every year. I'd try a Wagner power sprayer.

 

[Slick 55]

One Time Wood is the best thing on the market. There is a general rule that for every $10/gallon you spend on deck sealer you get 1 year of protection. One Time Wood is guaranteed for 7 years.

 

[Amkeer]

Penofin is the ticket. You need to apply it very heavy after 6 months then every 1-1.5 years after that. Oil will wear out, but will keep the deck looking better the longest as long as its maintained.

 

[dima]

Yes, I went with composite and never look back.
I think you better use ones a year stuff due to the fact that it also give you the chance to inspect your decking for upcomming problems.