Behr Semi-Transparent Weatherproofing Wood Stain

Important Note:  This is our 2nd Review of Behr Exterior Weatherproofing Wood and Deck Stains. First review was completed in 2010.

See Here for 2010: Behr Deck Stain Review

BEHR’s best semi-transparent product, this advanced 100% acrylic formula penetrates deep into wood to deliver complete protection from the elements for up to 6 years on decks and 8 years on fences and siding. The silicone-fortified formula delivers excellent protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. BEHR PREMIUM® Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is available in 60 custom colors that add beauty while allowing the natural wood grain to show through. The alkyd/acrylic formula combines the benefits of an oil-based finish and the convenient cleanup of a water-based product.

Behr Premium Weatherproofing Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 2

- The application of the Behr Premium Weatherproofing Stain was a repeat from our first test.  We found that the Behr does not penetrate into the wood like the product claims it should. It dries on top of the surface like a paint. It had the look of a semi-solid with much of the wood grain masked by the pigment. The Cedar color on the deck made it look like a pumpkin.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 8

- The one positive about the Behr is that it has excellent UV protection in the areas where the stain had not failed. Unfortunately this was only half of the deck floor and most of the railings.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 1

- The cedar porch was “Behr” of stain on more then half of the flooring. The stain had peeled or worn in large uneven patches. Vertical rails did not have any issues.

Cost Per Square Foot: 4

- Behr Premium Weatherproofing Stain costs $39 per gallon. We used 5 gallons for the 300 square feet for the 2 coats applied.

$.55 per foot.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 7

- Behr Premium Weatherproofing Stain had  some mold growing on the flooring near the home and on top of the rail cap.

Ease of Application: 2

- Applying the Behr Premium Stain is like painting your deck except it does not apply evenly. We have stained 1000′s of decks and have never found a stain to be more difficult to apply then Behr. It dries extremely fast and will show overlaps if not careful. We used a paint brush and hand applied the stain to the entire deck as that seemed to give the best results.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 8

- Behr Premium Weatherproofing Stain does not darken in color much or at all.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 2

- This is how we fixed the Behr Premium Wood Stain. We applied a heavy dose of the Behr Stain Remover and tired to pressure wash off the remaining stain. It did not work. We then used the RAD Stain Stripper at a very high concentration and repeated. This removed about 85% of the stain. We were left sanding off the rest then cleaning and brightening the wood to even out the porosity of the wood. Prepping took 12 hours and needless to say, the customer switched brands.

Overall Score Defy Extreme Stain at 2 Year Period: 4.625

- Rated #1 By Consumers. Not sure why and feedback from most of our users agree. Consumers own website has a user rating of 1 out of 5 stars. Thirteen out of the 14 reviews from actual users gave it a 1 star.

This stain should be removed from sale to the public.

Buyer Beware!

Product Information:

Where To Buy: Home Depot
Cost: $36.99 per Gallon, $169.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Premium Semi-Transparent – Water Based
Available Colors: 60 custom colors
Application Temperature: 40-90 F
Coats Required: 2 Coats
Coverage Per Gallon: 125-150 sq. ft in field tests
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 1-2 Hours
Cleanup: Soap and Water
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in all States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Behr

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: Spring 2010-Spring 2012
Deck Wood Type: Cedar Porch
Deck Square Footage: 300 Square Feet
UV Exposure: Full sun
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: Cedar

*All products tested and results are from our hands on experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ widely due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Disgruntled Behr Customer

SW Deckscapes Oil Review

Long-lasting penetrating oil-based formula protects the beauty of wood with a rich semi-transparent stain. Scuff-resistant formula with maximum UV protection that resists fading.
Waterproofs to prevent moisture damage.

Note: This is a test in the Sherwin Williams Deckscapes Oil Based Formula. This formula tested better then their water based version. See Here for Water Based Review: SW Deckscapes Review

Sherwin Williams DeckScapes Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 7.5

- Sherwin Williams DeckScapes in the oil formula penetrated much better then their waterborne version. Application of the stain was decent and the color of the Cedar bark was a brown cedar. After drying a day, the stain looked blotchy in appearance. We applied a light second coat to even out the look.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 7

- 2 years later the Sherwin Williams DeckScapes lost about 30% of it’s original color.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 7

- The Oil based version of the Deckscapes is definitely an improvement over the water version. The oil penetrates deep into the wood. This resulted in average wear and tear for our test deck.

Cost Per Square Foot: 8

- We used 7 gallons of stain for our 800 foot test deck. 2 Coats of stain were applied to the deck surface, one day apart. Cost to stain was around $.30 a foot.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 6

- The oil based version of the Deckscapes had a decent amount of black mold growing covering about 40% of the surface. The mold appeared to be growing underneath the stain. This would make reapplication difficult.

Ease of Application: 8

- The SW Deckscapes applies fairly easily. We used a pump sprayer and stain pad application. flooring was applied with the pad while the railings were sprayed. Back brushing was minimal and coverage was adequate. No overlapping of the stain on the flooring. We had to apply a second coat though to the floor as the first coat penetrated very deep and looked light.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 6

- The stain darkened considerably after 2 years. Looked like a muddy brown color instead of the original rich cedar. Combination of mold and UV darkening the stain.

Ease of Reapplication: 6

- Reapplication of the DeckScapes would require stripping of the old stain. Failure to remove would cause the appearance to darken considerably if another coat was applied on top of the wood. Cleaning alone would not be enough to remove the mold and restore the original color. Fortunately stripping of this stain would be easy.

Overall Score Defy Extreme Stain at 2 Year Period: 6.9

- Much better then the waterborne but not up to par with other oil based deck stains. If you had to choose between the two versions of the Deckscapes, then absolutely choose the oil based version.

Product Information:

Where To Buy: Sherwin Williams
Cost: $32.99 per Gallon, $160.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Semi-Transparent – Oil
Available Colors: 30 Different Colors
Application Temperature: 40-90 F
Coats Required: 1-2 Coats
Coverage Per Gallon: 150-200 sq. ft in field tests
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 4-12 Hours 24 hours fro recoat
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits
VOC Compliant: 550 Compliant – Cannot be sold to all states.
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Sherwin Williams

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: August 2010 -2012
Deck Wood Type: Pressure Treated Pine
Deck Square Footage: 800 Square Feet
UV Exposure: Full Sun
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: Cedar Bark

*All products tested and results are from our hands on experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ widely due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Kit

Restore-A-Deck is the only product on the market that offers both a Step 1 Deck Cleaner and a Step 2 Deck Brightener in the same kit. Restore-A-Deck comes in a powdered concentrated formula. Each 2 lb container makes 5 liquid gallons. Simply pour each into a five gallon container and add water to dissolve the powder concentrate.

Restore A Deck Cleaner and Brightener Scores (1-10)

Removal of Graying, Dirt, Grime: 9

- The Restore-A-Deck Step 1 Deck Cleaner did very well at removing general dirt and grime. The deep cleaning formula made it easy to break down the gray wood cells. All mold was removed as well. The Step 1 Deck Cleaner did not remove some rust stains from the furniture but the Step 2 Brightener did.

Cost Per Square Foot: 10

- The best on the market today. Cost to clean and brighten an average 600 square foot deck is less then $.07 a foot. Since Restore-A-Deck comes in a powder we liked that you only needed to mix as much as you needed. Very little waste.

Removal of Old Stain: N/A

- RAD products are designed to clean, not remove old deck stains. We would presume that they would remove a deck stain if the stain has deteriorated drastically.

Ease of Application: 8

- RAD does not come in a liquid. You need to measure 6 oz per gallon of water of mix the entire 2 lb. container into a 5 gallons of water. This product does apply easily with a garden pump sprayer. We needed to make sure to mix at the correct dosage otherwise the powder did not completely dissolve. Testing was done with both scrubbing and pressure washing. Both worked well. Step 2 brightener does not need to be scrubbed, just rinsed with water after 10 minutes.

Final Appearance of Cleaning: 9

- The IPE wood deck looked brand new after cleaning and drying for 2 days. We would have given this a score of 10 if it was not for a couple of minor water spots that did not come out. These spots looked to be from planter boxes.

Overall Score for Restore-A-Deck Cleaner: 9

- Restore-A-Deck makes a great and economical product for reviving your deck to like new condition. We really like that kits contained both the cleaner and brightener. This was easier then buying the products separately.

Product Information:

Manufacturer: Restore A Deck
Product Type: Powdered Concentrate. Kit contains Step 1 Deck Cleaner and Step 2 Deck Brightener
Available Sizes: 2 Pound Container Makes 5 Liquid Gallons
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coverage Per Gallon: 100-200 sq. ft
Application Tools: Scrub Brush, Pump Sprayer

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: June 2008
Deck Wood Type: IPE Exotic Hardwood
Deck Square Footage: 500
Condition of Deck: Heavily grayed with mold/mildew. No previous stain
How Much Product Used: RAD 300 Kit. Retails for $39.99

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Average Ratings Score From Consumers Who Have Used Product 

4.6/5(5)

Defy Extreme Wood Stain

Defy Extreme Stain was introduced in 2008 as the newest member of the Defy Stain family. Defy Extreme Deck Stain in a penetrating water-based stain that does not film on the wood. Defy Extreme contains synthetic epoxy resins that “harden” the wood pores below the surface.
Utilizing nano-technology, Defy Extreme is one of the best stains on the market when it comes to preventing UV graying.

*Note: Defy Extreme Wood Stain is an improved version of the Defy Epoxy Fortified Wood Stain. Containing the same ingredients but with the added UV protection of the zinc oxide nano particles .

Defy Extreme Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8.5

- Defy Extreme Stain had a rich look to the wood. Natural grain was highlighted evenly throughout. The Defy Extreme did not mask the grain like other water based wood stains. Penetration of the stain into the wood was excellent. The Cedartone color was slightly on the “orange” side but acceptable for a cedar deck stain color.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 9

- One of the best in the industry. Testing over a 2 year period showed little to no color fade. The zinc oxide nano particles seemed to help drastically with the Ultra Violet radiation that turns the wood gray.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 8

- Better then average wear and tear. High traffic areas show some wearing but overall tested
extremely well. No noticeable peeling.

Cost Per Square Foot: 7

- Defy Extreme costs about $40 per gallon. For two coats we got about 100 square feet per gallon. We used 8 gallons for the 750 square foot deck translating to a per square foot price of $.43 a foot.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 10

- Defy Extreme Stain is a water-based stain that does not promote mold growth in the stain. Very small amount of algae was noticeable but was only in a shaded area and was on top of the stain. More of a an issue with the deck location not the stain itself.

Ease of Application: 7.5

- Fairly easy to apply. One issue we noticed was that it can dry very fast when in direct sunlight and on a hot day. Easy cleanup with water.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 9

- Stain changed very little in color after the 2 year period. No noticeable darkening.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 8.5

- No noticeable darkening, deep penetration, and little wearing makes the Defy Extreme Stain an easy product to reapply when needed. Mild wood cleaning with the Defy Wood Cleaner and Defy Wood Brightener is what you would need to use to prep.

Overall Score Defy Extreme Stain at 2 Year Period: 8.47

- Defy Extreme is an excellent product and easily outperforms the majority of stains on the market. When it comes to waster based “Eco Friendly” stains, Defy Extreme is our top choice. Defy Extreme performed in the top three of all stains tested when it comes to preventing UV graying on a horizontal surface. On vertical surfaces such as railings, the Extreme had no color change.

Product Information:

Help or Questions? Google Search Defy Extreme Stain
Cost: $44 per Gallon, $216 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Semi-Transparent – Water Based
Available Colors: Cedartone, Natural Pine, Light Walnut, Clear
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats  Required: 2 Coats. “Wet on Wet”
Coverage Per Gallon: 100-150 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 2-4 Hours
Cleanup: Water
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in all States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Saver Systems

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: May 2009
Deck Wood Type: Pressure Treated Pine
Deck Square Footage: 750 Square feet
UV Exposure: 90% Full Sun, 10% Shade. South facing.
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: Cedartone

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

TWP 1500 Series Deck Stain

TWP 1500 Series was introduced in the Summer of 2010 as the replacement for the TWP 500 Series. TWP 1500 stain is a semi-transparent oil based wood preservative registered by the EPA. The only deck preservative that is currently registered as an exterior wood preservative.

TWP 1500 Series is designed for all exterior unfinished wood. It has excellent UV resistance from graying. It is mostly used for exterior wood decking, wood fencing, log homes, cedar sided homes, etc. TWP 1500 comes in 10 colors that allow the natural grain of the wood to show through.

TWP 1500 Series Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8.5

- TWP 1500 Series had a beautiful rich look to the wood. Wood grain was highlighted naturally. 1501 Cedartone color was slightly brown for a traditional cedar color.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 9

- Excellent at preventing uv graying at the two year mark. One of the top stains that we have tested in terms of absorbing the UV radiation that causes oxidation of the wood.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 9

- Very good at preventing peeling. TWP penetrates deep into the wood. This seems to reduce any chance of wearing or peeling at the surface.

TWP 1500 Series

Cost Per Square Foot: 8

- TWP 1500 Series cost us $174.99 for a 5 gallon pail delivered. This breaks down to $.35 per foot for 2 coats of stain on our 400 square foot deck. We still had 1.5 gallons left when done. Coverage for the TWP 1500 was close to 200 square feet per gallon.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 9

- Of all of the oil based stains we tested, TWP offers the best protection against mold spores that are known to grow in oil based stains. This is most likely due to the oils used in TWP’s stains. They do not use linseed oil but rather a mixture of natural and synthetic oils.

Ease of Application: 8

- For an oil based stain, TWP 1500 series applied well. We did notice that you need to back brush any puddles to ensure an even application. This is normal for most of the stains that we have tested. TWP 1500 Series did dry to the touch in 6 hours and we were able to put furniture back on the deck the following day.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 9

- The 1500 series did not “darken” in color like other oil based stains have been known to. TWP actually lightened up slightly at the 2 year mark. This gave the wood a more natural looking feel.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 8.5

- TWP 1500 Series would be an easy stain to reapply. A normal wood deck cleaner would be used to remove some dirt and grime, prepping for another coat.

Overall Score TWP 1500 Series at 2 Year Period: 8.5

- TWP 1500 Series (and 100 Series) have been known to provide tops in terms of durability and color retention. They have always been one of the best stains and is one of our top choices. Little to no fading on the railings. The deck surface faded to about 75% of the stain’ initial color after 2.5 years.

Product Information:

TWP Help? Search Google: TWP Stain Help
More Info: TWP 1500 Series
Cost: $36.99 per Gallon, $182.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Semi-Transparent – Oil-Based
Available Colors: 1500 Clear, 1501 Cedartone, 1502 Redwood, 1503 Dark Oak, 1504 Black Walnut, 1511 California Redwood, 1515 Honeytone, 1516 Rustic, 1520 Pecan, 1530 Natural
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats Required: 2 Coats. “Wet on Wet”
Coverage Per Gallon: 150-250 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 4-12 Hours
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in All 50 States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Gemini Coatings

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: June 2010
Deck Wood Type: Western Red Cedar
Deck Square Footage: 400
UV Exposure: Full Sun
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: 1501 Cedartone

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Armstrong Clark Wood Stain

Armstrong Clark Wood Stain is an oil-based stain backed by  5 generations of experience in the exterior wood stain industry. Armstrong Clark is offered in 3 different versions: Trans parents, Semi-Transparent, and Semi-Solid Colors.

Armstrong Clark Wood Stains are composed of drying and non-drying oils that separate during the application process. The drying oils cure and protect the exposed surface of the wood from natural weathering and UV radiation while the non-drying oils condition the interior of the wood by lubricating the wood cellular structure.

Armstrong Clark Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8

- The Armstrong Clark showed a rich deep enhanced color after application. The natural grain of the wood showed throughout the deck surface. The Mountain Cedar color was a “tannish” cedar color.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 8

- The Armstrong Clark Wood Stain in the Mountain Cedar offered better then average UV protection. When using a semi-solid stain we expected to achieve excellent UV protection and the Mountain Cedar delivered. We would expect that the semi-transparent and transparent colors to offer slightly less UV protection due to the lesser amount of solids.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 8

- Armstrong Clark Wood Stain had little to no peeling. The only wearing of the stain was on the steps. This most likely was the result of the homeowner’s dogs.

Cost Per Square Foot: 9

- Armstrong Clark sells for $41.99 per gallon for the semi-solids ($36.99 for semi-transparents). This is an average price for a quality deck stain. We found that Armstrong Clark has one of the best square foot coverages. For our 600 square foot test deck, we used only 2.5 gallons of stain for the required one coat. Final appearance was even with no noticeable bare spots.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 7

- The Armstrong stain did have some very minor mold spores on top of the stain. On further inspection is seemed that the mold was not growing in the stain and could easily be wiped off with a wet towel.

Ease of Application: 9

- Extremely easy to apply! Armstrong’s manufacturer states that their stain can be applied in direct sunlight. We tested our application at 90 degrees in full sun. We did not experience any flash drying or unevenness of the stain. No noticeable drips on the vertical railings. We were pleasantly surprised at how well the semi-solid applied with a garden pump sprayer.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 8

- The Armstrong Clark Wood Stain in the Mountain Cedar darkened slightly in color from the original application. Most likely due to the high solid

content of the semi-solid stain.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 8

- Armstrong Clark Wood Stain would be an easy product to re coat after a light cleaning. The stain does not darken and penetrates extremely well. Key factors when it comes to reapplications.

Overall Score Armstrong Clark Stain at 2 Year Period: 8.2

- Armstrong Clark performed at a high level after the two year mark. Our favorite aspects of the stain were the ease of application and the coverage rate. There was very little to no peeling of the stain and color shifting was acceptable. We would expect that applying a maintenance coat would be easy with a wood cleaning and wood brightening.

Product Information:

More Info: ArmstrongClarkStain.com
Cost: $36.99 per Gallon, $184.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Transparent, Semi-Transparent, Semi-Solid – Oil-Based
Available Colors: Transparent Natural, Transparent Cedar, Transparent Redwood, Semi-Trans Cedar, Semi-Trans Rustic Brown, Semi-Trans Sierra Redwood, Semi-Trans Amber, Semi-Trans Mahogany, Semi-Solid Mountain Cedar, Semi-Solid Woodland Brown, Semi-Solid Oxford Brown, Semi-Solid Sequoia
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats Required: 1 Coat
Coverage Per Gallon: 200-250 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 4-12 Hours
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in All 50 States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Armstrong Clark

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: April 2010
Deck Wood Type: Pressure Treated Pine
Deck Square Footage: 600
UV Exposure: Full Sun
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used:  Mountain Cedar

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Restore A Deck Kits

Important Note: This is our 2nd Review of the Restore A Deck Kits. See Here for First Review: Restore A Deck Cleaner and Brightener Kit

Restore A Deck cleaner is a specifically designed two-part system that is best used to clean and prep a wood deck prior to staining it. The Restore A Deck cleaner system consists of a wood cleaner that will remove dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and grayed wood fibers. Step 2 is a wood brightener that corrects the pH of the wood and brightens/lightens it up prior to applying a wood stain or sealer.

Restore-A-Deck comes in a powdered concentrated formula. Each 2 lb container makes 5 liquid gallons and can clean and brighten up to 1000 sq. feet. Simply pour each into a five gallon container and add water to dissolve the powder concentrate.

The Restore a Deck Step 1 Cleaner contains an EPA registered ingredient that helps in the removal of mold, mildew and algae.

Restore A Deck Cleaner and Brightener Scores (1-10)

Removal of Graying, Dirt, Grime: 9

The Restore-A-Deck Step 1 Deck Cleaner works wonders at removing dirt and graying. The active ingredient creates a slight foaming on the wood once applied. Once the graying and dirt has softened, we find it best to use a pressure washer at a low setting of 1500 PSI to “lightly wash” off the dirty slime.

Cost Per Square Foot: 10

Powdered deck prepping products are the way to go. Cheaper and more effective then bleach based solutions. We have found that the Restore A Deck Kits are the best on the market today when it comes to price. Cost to clean and brighten an average 800 square foot deck is less then $.07 a foot.

Removal of Old Stain: N/A

Restore A Deck Kits are used for prepping, cleaning and maintaining decks for application of a stain. It is not designed to remove old coatings. We have have used the Restore A Deck Kits though on very deteriorated deck coatings and it has removed them.

Ease of Application: 9

When we use the Restore A Deck powders we mix 6-8 oz of powder per gallon of water. Make sure that you mix in a different bucket if you will be applying with a sprayer as you may get some undissolved crystals at the bottom. This only happens with the Step 1 Cleaner. Transfer the cleaning solution into the pump sprayer. Take care to not transfer undissolved powder as it could clog the sprayer tip. Apply the cleaner with the pump sprayer and let sit for 10-15 minutes. Lightly pressure wash off or hand scrub.

Testing was done with both scrubbing and pressure washing. Both worked well at prepping the wood but we find a pressure washer more effective and quicker as well.

Final Appearance of Using Step 1 Cleaner: 9

All  the graying and grime had been removed and the natural color tones of the wood had been restored.

Final Appearance after Using Step 2 Brightener 10

The Restore A Deck Brightener is used to cancel the raising of pH balance from the Step 1 Cleaner. This is a very easy thing to to and will help aid in the longevity of your stain if the wood is left in a neutral state. The RAD Brightener does an excellent job of lightening the wood. Results are noticeable within a few minutes of application.

Step 2 brightener does not need to be scrubbed, just rinsed with water after 10 minutes.

Overall Score for Restore-A-Deck Cleaner: 9.4

Powders are the way to go for deck prepping products. The Restore-A-Deck Kits are economical and work extremely well. Using a qaulity product like the RAD Kits will make your wood restoration project easier and the overall results improved as well.

We rate this as a Contractor Choice for favorite prepping products for decking.

Product Information:

Manufacturer: Restore A Deck
Product Type: Powdered Concentrate. Kit contains Step 1 Deck Cleaner and Step 2 Deck Brightener
Available Sizes: 2 Pound Container Makes 5 Liquid Gallons
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coverage Per Gallon: 150-200 sq. ft per gallon. Each Kit preps 750-1000 sq. feet.
Application Tools: Scrub Brush, Pump Sprayer

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: Fall 2013
Deck Wood Type: Cedar wood that has grayed for 1 year
Deck Square Footage: 900
Condition of Deck: Heavily grayed with no previous coating.
How Much Product Used: One Restore A Deck Kit. Retails for $49.99

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Average Ratings Score From Consumers Who Have Used Product 

4.92/5(3)

Have you had a bad experience with a decking stain?

Our most popular article, “What is the Best Deck Stain” has become the #1 article for consumers on the Internet for deck stain questions and answers. We have decided to create an article based on negative consumer feedback and experiences with decking stains.

We are looking for bad experiences with a particular brand of decking stain.

Please include:

1. Brand of Deck Stain

2. Type of Deck Stain (i.e. Solid, Semi-Transparent, Transparent, Semi-Solid)

3. Location and date applied

4. How long did it take for the stain to fail and how did it fail. (Peeling, Turned Black, Mold, Etc)

5. A brief description of your overall negative experience.

Note: This is mostly for fun and to allow you to vent your frustration!

Average Article Ratings Score

4.85/5(13)

Defy Extreme Review

Important Note:  This is our 2nd Review of Defy Extreme Wood Stain. Our first review of the Defy Extreme Stain was started in 2009 and completed in 2011.  See Here for First Review: Defy Extreme Stain Review

*Note: Defy Extreme is replacing the Defy Epoxy after 2014. The main difference between the two is the Extreme contains zinc oxide nano particles. According to the manufacturer, this gives added UV protection and mold prevention.

Defy Extreme Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8

Defy Extreme Stain is a semi-transparent stain that seems closer to a transparent in that it does not mask the wood grain but rather highlights the natural tones. We used the Light Walnut color for our test deck. The Light Walnut is not a brown color but rather a reddish brown color. The customer was happy with the appearance but if you are looking for a brown, then try their newer Butternut.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 9

The Defy Extreme offers excellent resistance to UV fading. Testing over the two years showed very little color loss on the vertical railings. The horizontal flooring should very good color retention as well. The Extreme contains zinc oxide nano particles. These particles seem to offer an additional layer of UV filtering.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 7.5

For a semi-transparent water based decking stain, the Defy Extreme is excellent at diving deep into the wood grain. We have used and seen numerous water based acrylic stains and the Defy Extreme penetrates the wood grain better then the others. Very close to the penetration abilities of a oil based stain. Some wearing around table chairs and wood knots was noticeable otherwise the stain was very intact.

Take note that we do not use the Defy Extreme on brand new wood. If you want to use it on your new deck, it is best to wait a few months. The Extreme will penetrate better if you do.

Cost Per Square Foot: 7.5

Defy Extreme costs about $44 per gallon. This is a price increase from our first test but is in line with other stain $ increases. For the two coats applied with a wet on wet application we covered close to 125 sq. feet per gallon. We used 3 gallons for 350 sq. feet of deck and railings.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 10

We had no mold on the deck in the sun or shaded areas. The Defy Extreme Stain is a water-based stain that contains zinc oxide. A research online of “zinc oxide” shows that it is commonly used as an anti-fungal product in paints and other consumer products. This is also inline with water based stains in general as they do not contain “oils” that may feed the growth of mold.

Ease of Application: 8

Easy to apply for a water based stain. Most likely due to it’s penetration ability. When we apply the Extreme we like to move fast to avoid potential over lapping. We like to apply a light coat to the floor first with a sprayer, wait about 30 minutes then apply a second coat with a pad applicator on a pole. We can do the entire floor on a 350 sq. foot deck in an hour or less.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 10

The Extreme Stain does not darken in color at all.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 8

Prepping for this deck (reapplied 2013) consisted of a light cleaning with a deck cleaner and pressure washing. Once the deck was dry, we applied two coats to just the horizontal areas. The verticals did not need another coat as they had little to no color loss.

Overall Score Defy Extreme Stain at 2 Year Period: 8.5

Defy Extreme is an excellent product and outperforms any other water based deck stains that we have used or seen on customers decks. Deep penetrating abilities and better then average color retention. Slightly costlier then other stains and can wear some in heavier traffic areas.

Product Information:

Help or Questions? Google Search Defy Extreme Stain
Cost: $43.99 per Gallon, $219.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Semi-Transparent – Water Based
Available Colors: Cedar Tone, Natural Pine, Light Walnut, Clear, Butternut, Driftwood Gray
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats  Required: 2 Coats. “Wet on Wet”
Coverage Per Gallon: 100-150 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 2-4 Hours
Cleanup: Water
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in all States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Saver Systems

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: Applied June 2011 and Reviewed Summer 2013
Deck Wood Type: Cedar decking
Deck Square Footage: 350 Square feet
UV Exposure: 50% Full Sun, 50% Shade. South East Exposure.
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: Light Walnut

*All products tested and results are from our experience as wood restoration contractors. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

TWP 100 Wood Deck Stain

Important Note:  This is our 2nd Review of TWP 100 Series.

See our first review of the TWP 100 Series here: TWP Wood Stain Review

TWP 100 Total Wood Preservative Deck Stain protects and maintains all exterior wooden surfaces. TWP Wood Stain is a special blend of chemicals in a contractor grade formula that safeguards and protects exterior wooden surfaces.

TWP 100 Wood Deck Sealers lock out water and moisture that causes wood to crack, split, and warp. Freeze damage is also prevented in cold climates.

TWP Stains are the only wood and deck stains on the market that are registered as exterior wood preservatives by the EPA.

TWP 100 Series Wood Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 9

- The TWP 100 Stain was applied to a very large deck surrounding a pool. The wood was about 1 year old at the time and was prepped with the Restore-A-Deck Cleaner and Brightener kit. The wood was a knotty cedar and the Cedartone 101 color gave a rich look that is typical of a cedar stain. Knots and grain where enhanced and the stain dried evenly for the 2 coats that were applied to the floor.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 8

- Same as the first time tested, The TWP Cedartone 101 retained about 80% of the original color after 2 years of weathering.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 8

- We found that the TWP did wear slightly in about 20% of the floor area. It was mostly in the high traffic areas that surrounded the pool. The upper level deck in the back had little to no wearing.

TWP 101 Cedartone Color

Cost Per Square Foot: 8.5

- The price paid was $159.99 for the 5 gallon pail of TWP 101 Stain. We used all 15 gallons for the 2100 foot pool deck. We applied two coats to the floor and 1 coat to the railing.  Cost to stain with TWP 100 Series was $.23 per foot.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 10

- No mold, mildew or algae spores were present.

Ease of Application: 8

- As you can see from the photo, this deck was surrounded by a pool. We needed to be extremely careful of getting any stain into the pool. We did all flooring with a stain pad that allowed the stain to apply evenly and absorb well. We tarped the railings to prevent over spray and used a pump sprayer to apply to the spindles, back wiping the drips.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 9

- The TWP did not darken from mold or UV discoloration. Slight water spots were noticeable around the edge of the pool.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 9

- Reapplication will be easy without the need for stripping off the two year old stain. The use of a wood cleaner and wood brightener should be sufficient prep. On this particular deck, we cleaned and prepped the flooring and reapplied to the floor and top of the railings. We did not do the verticals as they still looked good form the original application.

Overall Score TWP 100 Series Stain at 2 Year Period: 8.69

- As contractors, we enjoy using the TWP Stains. It penetrates well into the wood, fades lightly in color and holds up to wear and tear. We like that when it is time to redo the wood in 2-3 years, the TWP can be cleaned and re-coated or even removed with ease. This makes the reapplication process much easier.

Note: We do not use TWP on brand new wood. If applied to wood that is less then 4 months old, it seems to have a difficult time with penetration. We find this with many of the stains we have used on new wood. The manufacturer suggests waiting 4-12 months to let the wood weather. We strongly suggest that you wait.

Product Information:

TWP Help? Search Google: TWP Stain Help
More Info: TWP 100
Cost: $33.99 per Gallon, $159.99 per 5 Gallon Pail is the average
Stain Type: Registered Wood Preservative by EPA. Oil-based Semi-Transparent
Available Colors: 100 Clear, 101 Cedartone, 102 Redwood, 115 Honeytone, 116 Rustic, 120 Pecan, 1o5 Cape Cod Gray, 106 Prarie Gray
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats Required: 2 Coats. “Wet on Wet”
Coverage Per Gallon: 150-250 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 2-8 Hours
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits or Paint Thinner
VOC Compliant: 550 Compliant in 36 States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Gemini Coatings

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: June 2010
Deck Wood Type: Western Red Cedar
Deck Square Footage: 2100
UV Exposure: Full Sun Deck and Pool Area, Skirting and Railings
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: TWP Cedartone Natural 101

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

SW Deckscapes Oil Review

Long-lasting penetrating oil-based formula protects the beauty of wood with a rich semi-transparent stain. Scuff-resistant formula with maximum UV protection that resists fading.
Waterproofs to prevent moisture damage.

Note: This is a test in the Sherwin Williams Deckscapes Oil Based Formula. This formula tested better than their water based version. See Here for Water Based Review: SW Deckscapes Review

Sherwin Williams DeckScapes Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 7.5

– Sherwin Williams DeckScapes in the oil formula penetrated much better then their waterborne version. Application of the stain was decent and the color of the Cedar bark was a brown cedar. After drying a day, the stain looked blotchy in appearance. We applied a light second coat to even out the look.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 7

– 2 years later the Sherwin Williams DeckScapes lost about 30% of its original color.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 7

– The Oil based version of the Deckscapes is definitely an improvement over the water version. The oil penetrates deep into the wood. This resulted in average wear and tear for our test deck.

Cost Per Square Foot: 8

– We used 7 gallons of stain for our 800 sq foot test deck. 2 Coats of stain were applied to the deck surface, one day apart. Cost to stain was around $.30 a foot.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 6

– The oil based version of the Deckscapes had a decent amount of black mold growing covering about 40% of the surface. The mold appeared to be growing underneath the stain. This would make reapplication difficult.

Ease of Application: 8

– The SW Deckscapes applies fairly easily. We used a pump sprayer and stain pad application. flooring was applied with the pad while the railings were sprayed. Back brushing was minimal and coverage was adequate. No overlapping of the stain on the flooring. We had to apply a second coat though to the floor as the first coat penetrated very deep and looked light.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 6

– The stain darkened considerably after 2 years. Looked like a muddy brown color instead of the original rich cedar. A combination of mold and UV darkening the stain.

Ease of Reapplication: 6

– Reapplication of the DeckScapes would require stripping of the old stain. Failure to remove would cause the appearance to darken considerably if another coat was applied on top of the wood. Cleaning alone would not be enough to remove the mold and restore the original color. Fortunately, stripping of this stain would be easy.

Overall Score SW Deckscapes at 2 Year Period: 6.9

– Much better than the waterborne but not up to par with other oil based deck stains. If you had to choose between the two versions of the Deckscapes, then absolutely choose the oil based version.

Product Information:

Where To Buy: Sherwin Williams
Cost: $32.99 per Gallon, $160.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Semi-Transparent – Oil
Available Colors: 30 Different Colors
Application Temperature: 40-90 F
Coats Required: 1-2 Coats
Coverage Per Gallon: 150-200 sq. ft in field tests
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 4-12 Hours 24 hours fro recoat
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits
VOC Compliant: 550 Compliant – Cannot be sold to all states.
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Sherwin Williams

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: August 2010 -2012
Deck Wood Type: Pressure Treated Pine
Deck Square Footage: 800 Square Feet
UV Exposure: Full Sun
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: Cedar Bark

*All products tested and results are from our hands on experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ widely due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Defy Extreme Wood and Deck Stain Update 2017

We find that the Defy Extreme Wood Stain to be the best performing water-based deck stain on the market. The zinc oxide nano-particles do double duty in preventing UV fading and preventing mold or mildew growth. The Defy Extreme penetrates into the wood grain extremely well for a water-based stain, resulting in a non-filming coating that is not prone to peeling or wear from traffic. We personally use the Defy Extreme on about 30-50 deck restorations every year in the Midwest and is one of our go-to brands.

Defy Extreme Stain was introduced in 2008 as the newest member of the Defy Stain family. Defy Extreme Deck Stain in a penetrating water-based stain that does not film on the wood. Defy Extreme contains synthetic epoxy resins that “harden” the wood pores below the surface.

Utilizing nano-technology, Defy Extreme is one of the best stains on the market when it comes to preventing UV graying.

*Note: Defy Extreme Wood Stain is an improved version of the Defy Epoxy Fortified Wood Stain. Containing the same ingredients but with the added UV protection of the zinc oxide nano particles .

Defy Extreme Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8.5

– Defy Extreme Stain had a rich look to the wood. Natural grain was highlighted evenly throughout. The Defy Extreme did not mask the grain like other water based wood stains. Penetration of the stain into the wood was excellent. The Cedartone color was slightly on the “orange” side but acceptable for a cedar deck stain color.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 9

– One of the best in the industry. Testing over a 2 year period showed little to no color fade. The zinc oxide nano particles seemed to help drastically with the Ultra Violet radiation that turns the wood gray.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 8

– Better than average wear and tear. High traffic areas show some wearing but overall tested
extremely well. No noticeable peeling.

Cost Per Square Foot: 7

– Defy Extreme costs about $40 per gallon. For two coats we got about 100 square feet per gallon. We used 8 gallons for the 750 square foot deck translating to a per square foot price of $.43 a foot.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 10

– Defy Extreme Stain is a water-based stain that does not promote mold growth in the stain. Very small amount of algae was noticeable but was only in a shaded area and was on top of the stain. More of an issue with the decks location not the stain itself.

Ease of Application: 7.5

– Fairly easy to apply. One issue we noticed was that it can dry very fast when in direct sunlight and on a hot day. Easy cleanup with water.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 9

– Stain changed very little in color after the 2 year period. No noticeable darkening.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 8.5

– No noticeable darkening, deep penetration, and little wearing make the Defy Extreme Stain an easy product to reapply when needed. Mild wood cleaning with the Defy Wood Cleaner and Defy Wood Brightener is what you would need to use to prep.

Overall Score Defy Extreme Stain at 2 Year Period: 8.47

– Defy Extreme is an excellent product and easily outperforms the majority of stains on the market. When it comes to water-based “Eco-Friendly” stains, Defy Extreme is our top choice. Defy Extreme performed in the top three of all stains tested when it comes to preventing UV graying on a horizontal surface. On vertical surfaces such as railings, the Extreme had no color change.

Product Information:

Help or Questions? Google Search Defy Extreme Stain
Defy Stain Facebook Page: Defy Exterior Stains
Cost: $44 per Gallon, $216 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Semi-Transparent – Water Based
Available Colors: Cedartone, Natural Pine, Light Walnut, Clear
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats  Required: 2 Coats. “Wet on Wet”
Coverage Per Gallon: 100-150 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 2-4 Hours
Cleanup: Water
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in all States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Saver Systems

Test Deck Stats:

Deck Wood Type: Pressure Treated Pine
Deck Square Footage: 750 Square feet
UV Exposure: 90% Full Sun, 10% Shade. South facing.
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: Cedartone

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

TWP 1500 Series Deck Stain

TWP 1500 Series was introduced in the Summer of 2010 as the replacement for the TWP 500 Series. TWP 1500 stain is a semi-transparent oil based wood preservative registered by the EPA. The only deck preservative that is currently registered as an exterior wood preservative.

TWP 1500 Series is designed for all exterior unfinished wood. It has excellent UV resistance from graying. It is mostly used for exterior wood decking, wood fencing, log homes, cedar sided homes, etc. TWP 1500 comes in 10 colors that allow the natural grain of the wood to show through.

TWP Stains – 1500 Stain Rating

TWP 1500 Series Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8.5

– TWP 1500 Series had a beautiful rich look to the wood. Wood grain was highlighted naturally. 1501 Cedartone color was slightly brown for a traditional cedar color.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 9

– Excellent at preventing UV graying at the two-year mark. One of the top stains that we have tested in terms of absorbing the UV radiation that causes oxidation of the wood.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 9

– Very good at preventing peeling. TWP penetrates deep into the wood. This seems to reduce any chance of wearing or peeling at the surface.

TWP 1500 Series

Cost Per Square Foot: 8

– TWP 1500 Series cost us $174.99 for a 5 gallon pail delivered. This breaks down to $.35 per foot for 2 coats of stain on our 400 square foot deck. We still had 1.5 gallons left when done. Coverage for the TWP 1500 was close to 200 square feet per gallon.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 9

– Of all of the oil based stains we tested, TWP offers the best protection against mold spores that are known to grow in oil based stains. This is most likely due to the oils used in TWP’s stains. They do not use linseed oil but rather a mixture of natural and synthetic oils.

Ease of Application: 8

– For an oil based stain, TWP 1500 series applied well. We did notice that you need to back brush any puddles to ensure an even application. This is normal for most of the stains that we have tested. TWP 1500 Series did dry to the touch in 6 hours and we were able to put furniture back on the deck the following day.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 9

– The 1500 series did not “darken” in color like other oil based stains have been known to. TWP actually lightened up slightly at the 2-year mark. This gave the wood a more natural looking feel.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 8.5

– TWP 1500 Series would be an easy stain to reapply. A normal wood deck cleaner would be used to remove some dirt and grime, prepping for another coat.

Overall Score TWP 1500 Series at 2 Year Period: 8.5

– TWP 1500 Series (and 100 Series) have been known to provide tops in terms of durability and color retention. They have always been one of the best stains and is one of our top choices. Little to no fading on the railings. The deck surface faded to about 75% of the stain’ initial color after 2.5 years.

Product Information:

TWP Help? Search Google: TWP Stain Help
More Info: TWP 1500 Series
TWP Stain Facebook Page: TWP Deck and Wood Stains
Cost: $36.99 per Gallon, $182.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Semi-Transparent – Oil-Based
Available Colors: 1500 Clear, 1501 Cedartone, 1502 Redwood, 1503 Dark Oak, 1504 Black Walnut, 1511 California Redwood, 1515 Honeytone, 1516 Rustic, 1520 Pecan, 1530 Natural
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats Required: 2 Coats. “Wet on Wet”
Coverage Per Gallon: 150-250 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 4-12 Hours
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in All 50 States
More Info: Product Data

Test Deck Stats:

Deck Wood Type: Western Red Cedar
Deck Square Footage: 400
UV Exposure: Full Sun
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: 1501 Cedartone

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Armstrong Clark Wood Stain

Armstrong Clark Wood Stain Update 2017

The Armstrong Clark Wood stain has been a solid performer since we started reviewing and using it about 6 years ago. We really like how it penetrates deep in the wood grain and applies easily. Reapplication is simple as needed with a good deck cleaner for the prep. One thing we have noticed is to make sure you do not over apply. You want the AC to soak completely into the wood.

Armstrong Clark Stain Review Below

Armstrong Clark Wood Stain is an oil-based stain backed by  5 generations of experience in the exterior wood stain industry. Armstrong Clark is offered in 3 different versions: Trans parents, Semi-Transparent, and Semi-Solid Colors.

Armstrong Clark Wood Stains are composed of drying and non-drying oils that separate during the application process. The drying oils cure and protect the exposed surface of the wood from natural weathering and UV radiation while the non-drying oils condition the interior of the wood by lubricating the wood cellular structure.

Armstrong Clark Stain Review

Armstrong Clark Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8

– The Armstrong Clark showed a rich deep enhanced color after application. The natural grain of the wood showed throughout the deck surface. The Mountain Cedar color was a “tannish” cedar color.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 8

– The Armstrong Clark Wood Stain in the Mountain Cedar offered better than average UV protection. When using a semi-solid stain we expected to achieve excellent UV protection and the Mountain Cedar delivered. We would expect that the semi-transparent and transparent colors to offer slightly less UV protection due to the lesser amount of solids.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 8

– Armstrong Clark Wood Stain had little to no peeling. The only wearing of the stain was on the steps. This most likely was the result of the homeowner’s dogs.

Cost Per Square Foot: 9

– Armstrong Clark sells for $41.99 per gallon for the semi-solids ($36.99 for semi-transparent). This is an average price for a quality deck stain. We found that Armstrong Clark has one of the best square foot coverages. For our 600 square foot test deck, we used only 2.5 gallons of stain for the required one coat. Final appearance was even with no noticeable bare spots.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 7

– The Armstrong stain did have some very minor mold spores on top of the stain. On further inspection is seemed that the mold was not growing in the stain and could easily be wiped off with a wet towel.

Ease of Application: 9

– Extremely easy to apply! Armstrong’s manufacturer states that their stain can be applied in direct sunlight. We tested our application at 90 degrees in full sun. We did not experience any flash drying or unevenness of the stain. No noticeable drips on the vertical railings. We were pleasantly surprised at how well the semi-solid applied with a garden pump sprayer.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 8

– The Armstrong Clark Wood Stain in the Mountain Cedar darkened slightly in color from the original application. Most likely due to the high solid

content of the semi-solid stain.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 8

– Armstrong Clark Wood Stain would be an easy product to re coat after a light cleaning. The stain does not darken and penetrates extremely well. Key factors when it comes to reapplications.

Overall Score Armstrong Clark Stain at 2 Year Period: 8.2

– Armstrong Clark performed at a high level after the two year mark. Our favorite aspects of the stain were the ease of application and the coverage rate. There was very little to no peeling of the stain and color shifting was acceptable. We would expect that applying a maintenance coat would be easy with a wood cleaning and wood brightening.

Product Information:

More Info: ArmstrongClarkStain.com
Cost: $36.99 per Gallon, $184.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Transparent, Semi-Transparent, Semi-Solid – Oil-Based
Available Colors: Transparent Natural, Transparent Cedar, Transparent Redwood, Semi-Trans Cedar, Semi-Trans Rustic Brown, Semi-Trans Sierra Redwood, Semi-Trans Amber, Semi-Trans Mahogany, Semi-Solid Mountain Cedar, Semi-Solid Woodland Brown, Semi-Solid Oxford Brown, Semi-Solid Sequoia
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats Required: 1 Coat
Coverage Per Gallon: 200-250 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 4-12 Hours
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in All 50 States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Armstrong Clark

Test Deck Stats:

Deck Wood Type: Pressure Treated Pine
Deck Square Footage: 600
UV Exposure: Full Sun
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used:  Mountain Cedar

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Kit

Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Kit Update 2017

Please read this article and post any questions you have in the comment are below. Our newly enhanced website now offers the ability to upload and post pictures of your exterior wood or deck. This will help us determine the proper prep for your deck.

Below you will see a YouTube Video Review of the Restore A Deck Prepping kit. this is from an actual consumer and is very informative and helpful.

Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Review Below

Restore-A-Deck is the only product on the market that offers both a Step 1 Deck Cleaner and a Step 2 Deck Brightener in the same kit. Restore-A-Deck comes in a powdered concentrated formula. Each 2 lb container makes 5 liquid gallons. Simply pour each into a five-gallon container and add water to dissolve the powder concentrate.

Restore A Deck Cleaner and Brightener Scores (1-10)

Removal of Graying, Dirt, Grime: 9

– The Restore-A-Deck Step 1 Deck Cleaner did very well at removing general dirt and grime. The deep cleaning formula made it easy to break down the gray wood cells. All mold was removed as well. The Step 1 Deck Cleaner did not remove some rust stains from the furniture but the Step 2 Brightener did.

Cost Per Square Foot: 10

– The best on the market today. The cost to clean and brighten an average 600 square foot deck is less than $.07 a foot. Since Restore-A-Deck comes in a powder we liked that you only needed to mix as much as you needed. Very little waste.

Removal of Old Stain: N/A

– RAD products are designed to clean, not remove old deck stains. We would presume that they would remove a deck stain if the stain has deteriorated drastically.

Ease of Application: 8

– RAD does not come in a liquid. You need to measure 6 oz per gallon of water of mix the entire 2 lb. container into 5 gallons of water. This product does apply easily with a garden pump sprayer. We needed to make sure to mix at the correct dosage otherwise, the powder did not completely dissolve. Testing was done with both scrubbing and pressure washing. Both worked well. Step 2 brightener does not need to be scrubbed, just rinsed with water after 10 minutes.

Final Appearance of Cleaning: 9

– The IPE wood deck looked brand new after cleaning and drying for 2 days. We would have given this a score of 10 if it was not for a couple of minor water spots that did not come out. These spots looked to be from planter boxes.

Overall Score for Restore-A-Deck Cleaner: 9

– Restore-A-Deck makes a great and economical product for reviving your deck to like new condition. We really like that kits contained both the cleaner and brightener. This was easier than buying the products separately.

Product Information:

Manufacturer: Restore A Deck
Product Type: Powdered Concentrate. Kit contains Step 1 Deck Cleaner and Step 2 Deck Brightener
Available Sizes: 2 Pound Container Makes 5 Liquid Gallons
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coverage Per Gallon: 100-200 sq. ft
Application Tools: Scrub Brush, Pump Sprayer

Test Deck Stats:

Deck Wood Type: IPE Exotic Hardwood
Deck Square Footage: 500
Condition of Deck: Heavily grayed with mold/mildew. No previous stain
How Much Product Used: RAD 300 Kit. Retails for $39.99

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Average Rating Score From Consumers Who Have Used Product 

4.6/5 (23)

Independent YouTube Customer Review

Armstrong Clark Hardwood Stain

A high solids pigmented finish made from heavy and light bodied oils specially formulated for application on unpainted hardwoods. Heavy bodied oils provide water repellency. Extra pigments provide enhanced color retention on hardwoods. Light bodied oils combined with solvent penetrate into the wood. Armstrong’s Semi-Transparent Hardwood Finishes repel water, retain color longer and reduce the frequency of re-coats on maintenance intensive hardwoods.

Important Note: Testing for Exotic Hardwood Deck Stains

Exotic hardwoods such as IPE are extremely dense and difficult to penetrate. These wood types when stained, will always fade faster the other woods such as Cedar, Redwood, and Pine. Testing will be changed to 1 year instead of 2 years for exotic hardwoods.

Armstrong Clark Hardwood Stain

Armstrong Clark Hardwood Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 9

– The Armstrong Clark in the Mahogany color had a very rich look on our IPE test deck. We applied one coat at the Mahogany color enhanced the natural colors of the IPE with a reddish brown color. The stain did not film on the surface but absorbed into the wood.

Preventing UV Graying at 1 Year Mark: 8

– We found the the Armstrong Clark in Mahogany outperformed all other Hardwood deck stains when it comes to color retention on Ipe. Many of the stains we tested had lost the color within 8 months while the Armstrong still had a decent amount of color. See picture below for a sample board that we tested.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 9

– Armstrong Clark Hardwood stain did not peel on our test deck. A small amount of wearing was noticeable around the door. Armstrong penetrates very well into IPE wood.

13 Months AC Mahogany

Cost Per Square Foot: 8

– Armstrong Clark retails for $43.99 per gallon for the hardwood colors. We used 1 gallon of stain for our 300 sq. foot IPE test deck. This is very reasonable for a quality stain.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 8

– We had a small amount of black mold growing on the stain after 13 months. Very minor but worth noting.

Ease of Application: 9

– We are fans of the AC stain when it comes to application. Absorbs deeply, spreads far, and dries evenly. Less excess stain to back wipe then other hardwood deck coatings that we have tested.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 9

– As you can see from the picture above, the Armstrong in the Mahogany fades in color and does not darken or turn black.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 8

– The AC would need to be cleaned with a deck cleaner to remove the small amount of mold and any dirt or grime. Once this was done a light coating of stain would need to be reapplied to restore the color and prolong the graying better.

Overall Score Armstrong Clark Hardwood Stain at 2 Year Period: 8.5

– Thus far we have yet to test or see a hardwood deck stain perform better than the Armstrong Clark on IPE when it comes to fading. We have also used the Amber color that they offer. It does fade a little faster than the Mahogany but still has excellent overall color retention.

Easy to Apply, Excellent color retention, No issues with reapplication on an annual basis.

Product Information:

More Info: ArmstrongClarkStain.com
Cost: $43.99 per Gallon, $224.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Oil-Based Stains for Exotic Woods
Available Colors: Hardwood Amber,  Hardwood Mahogany
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats Required: 1 Coat
Coverage Per Gallon: 200-300 sq. ft on exotic hardwoods
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 4-12 Hours
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in All 50 States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Armstrong Clark

Test Deck Stats:

Deck Wood Type: IPE
Deck Square Footage: 300
UV Exposure: Full Sun
How Many Years Tested: 1 Years
Stain Color Used: Mahogany

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Have you had a bad experience with a decking stain?

Our most popular article, “What is the Best Deck Stain” has become the #1 article for consumers on the Internet for deck stain questions and answers. We have decided to create an article based on negative consumer feedback and experiences with decking stains.

We are looking for bad experiences with a particular brand of decking stain.

Please include:

1. Brand of Deck Stain

2. Type of Deck Stain (i.e. Solid, Semi-Transparent, Transparent, Semi-Solid)

3. Location and date applied

4. How long did it take for the stain to fail and how did it fail? (Peeling, Turned Black, Mold, Etc)

5. A brief description of your overall negative experience.

Note: This is mostly for fun and to allow you to vent your frustration!

Average Article Ratings Score

4.4/5 (29)

TWP 100 Wood Deck Stain

Important Note:  This is our 2nd Review of TWP 100 Series.

See our other reviews of the TWP 100 Series here: TWP 100 Wood Stain Reviews

TWP 100 Total Wood Preservative Deck Stain protects and maintains all exterior wooden surfaces. TWP Wood Stain is a special blend of chemicals in a contractor grade formula that safeguards and protects exterior wooden surfaces.

TWP 100 Wood Deck Sealers lock out water and moisture that causes wood to crack, split, and warp. Freeze damage is also prevented in cold climates.

TWP Stains are the only wood and deck stains on the market that are registered as exterior wood preservatives by the EPA.

TWP Stains – 100 Stain Review

TWP 100 Series Wood Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 9

– The TWP 100 Stain was applied to a very large deck surrounding a pool. The wood was about 1 year old at the time and was prepped with the Restore-A-Deck Cleaner and Brightener kit. The wood was a knotty cedar and the Cedartone 101 color gave a rich look that is typical of a cedar stain. Knots and grain were enhanced and the stain dried evenly for the 2 coats that were applied to the floor.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 8

– Same as the first time tested, The TWP Cedartone 101 retained about 80% of the original color after 2 years of weathering.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 8

– We found that the TWP did wear slightly in about 20% of the floor area. It was mostly in the high traffic areas that surrounded the pool. The upper level deck in the back had little to no wearing.

TWP 101 Cedartone Color

Cost Per Square Foot: 8.5

– The price paid was $159.99 for the 5 gallon pail of TWP 101 Stain. We used all 15 gallons for the 2100 foot pool deck. We applied two coats to the floor and 1 coat to the railing.  Cost to stain with TWP 100 Series was $.23 per sq. foot.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 10

– No mold, mildew or algae spores were present.

Ease of Application: 8

– As you can see from the photo, this deck was surrounded by a pool. We needed to be extremely careful of getting any stain into the pool. We did all flooring with a stain pad that allowed the stain to apply evenly and absorb well. We tarped the railings to prevent over spray and used a pump sprayer to apply to the spindles, back wiping the drips.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 9

– The TWP did not darken from mold or UV discoloration. Slight water spots were noticeable around the edge of the pool.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 9

– Reapplication will be easy without the need for stripping off the two year old stain. The use of a wood cleaner and wood brightener should be sufficient prep. On this particular deck, we cleaned and prepped the flooring and reapplied to the floor and top of the railings. We did not do the verticals as they still looked good from the original application.

Overall Score TWP 100 Series Stain at 2 Year Period: 8.69

– As contractors, we enjoy using the TWP Stains. It penetrates well into the wood, fades lightly in color and holds up to wear and tear. We like that when it is time to redo the wood in 2-3 years, the TWP can be cleaned and re-coated or even removed with ease. This makes the reapplication process much easier.

Note: We do not use TWP on brand new wood. If applied to wood that is less than 4 months old, it seems to have a difficult time with penetration. We find this with many of the stains we have used on new wood. The manufacturer suggests waiting 4-12 months to let the wood weather. We strongly suggest that you wait.

Product Information:

TWP Help? Search Google: TWP Stain Help
More Info: TWP 100
TWP Stain Facebook Page: TWP Deck and Wood Stains
Cost: $33.99 per Gallon, $170 per 5 Gallon Pail is the average
Stain Type: Registered Wood Preservative by EPA. Oil-based Semi-Transparent
Available Colors: 100 Clear, 101 Cedartone, 102 Redwood, 115 Honeytone, 116 Rustic, 120 Pecan, 1o5 Cape Cod Gray, 106 Prarie Gray
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats Required: 2 Coats. “Wet on Wet”
Coverage Per Gallon: 150-250 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 2-8 Hours
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits or Paint Thinner
VOC Compliant: 550 Compliant in 36 States
More Info: Product Data

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: June 2010
Deck Wood Type: Western Red Cedar
Deck Square Footage: 2100
UV Exposure: Full Sun Deck and Pool Area, Skirting and Railings
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: TWP Cedartone Natural 101

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Defy Extreme Stain Review

Important Note:  This is our 2nd Review of Defy Extreme Wood Stain. Our first review of the Defy Extreme Stain was started in 2009 and completed in 2011.  See Here for First Review: Defy Extreme Stain Review

*Note: Defy Extreme is replacing the Defy Epoxy after 2014. The main difference between the two is the Extreme contains zinc oxide nano particles. According to the manufacturer, this gives added UV protection and mold prevention.

Defy Extreme Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8

Defy Extreme Stain is a semi-transparent stain that seems closer to a transparent in that it does not mask the wood grain but rather highlights the natural tones. We used the Light Walnut color for our test deck. The Light Walnut is not a brown color but rather a reddish brown color. The customer was happy with the appearance but if you are looking for a brown, then try their newer Butternut.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 9

The Defy Extreme offers excellent resistance to UV fading. Testing over the two years showed very little color loss on the vertical railings. The horizontal flooring should very good color retention as well. The Extreme contains zinc oxide nano particles. These particles seem to offer an additional layer of UV filtering.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 7.5

For a semi-transparent water based decking stain, the Defy Extreme is excellent at diving deep into the wood grain. We have used and seen numerous water-based acrylic stains and the Defy Extreme penetrates the wood grain better than the others. Very close to the penetration abilities of an oil based stain. Some wearing around table chairs and wood knots was noticeable otherwise, the stain was very intact.

Take note that we do not use the Defy Extreme on brand new wood. If you want to use it on your new deck, it is best to wait a few months. The Extreme will penetrate better if you do.

Cost Per Square Foot: 7.5

Defy Extreme costs about $44 per gallon. This is a price increase from our first test but is in line with other stain $ increases. For the two coats applied with a wet on wet application, we covered close to 125 sq. feet per gallon. We used 3 gallons for 350 sq. feet of deck and railings.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 10

We had no mold on the deck in the sun or shaded areas. The Defy Extreme Stain is a water-based stain that contains zinc oxide. A research online of “zinc oxide” shows that it is commonly used as an anti-fungal product in paints and other consumer products. This is also in line with water based stains in general as they do not contain “oils” that may feed the growth of mold.

Ease of Application: 8

Easy to apply for a water based stain. Most likely due to its penetration ability. When we apply the Extreme we like to move fast to avoid potential overlapping. We like to apply a light coat to the floor first with a sprayer, wait about 30 minutes then apply a second coat with a pad applicator on a pole. We can do the entire floor on a 350 sq. foot deck in an hour or less.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 10

The Extreme Stain does not darken in color at all.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 8

Prepping for this deck (reapplied 2013) consisted of a light cleaning with a deck cleaner and pressure washing. Once the deck was dry, we applied two coats to just the horizontal areas. The verticals did not need another coat as they had little to no color loss.

Overall Score Defy Extreme Stain at 2 Year Period: 8.5

Defy Extreme is an excellent product and outperforms any other water based deck stains that we have used or seen on customers decks. Deep penetrating abilities and better than average color retention. Slightly costlier than other stains and can wear some in heavier traffic areas.

Product Information:

Help or Questions? Google Search Defy Extreme Stain
Defy Stain Facebook Page: Defy Exterior Stains
Cost: $43.99 per Gallon, $219.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Semi-Transparent – Water Based
Available Colors: Cedar Tone, Natural Pine, Light Walnut, Clear, Butternut, Driftwood Gray
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats  Required: 2 Coats. “Wet on Wet”
Coverage Per Gallon: 100-150 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 2-4 Hours
Cleanup: Water
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in all States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Saver Systems

Test Deck Stats:

When Tested: Applied June 2011 and Reviewed Summer 2013
Deck Wood Type: Cedar decking
Deck Square Footage: 350 Square feet
UV Exposure: 50% Full Sun, 50% Shade. South East Exposure.
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used: Light Walnut

*All products tested and results are from our experience as wood restoration contractors. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

Armstrong Clark Deck Stain Review

Important Note: This is our 3rd Review of Armstrong Clark Stain.

Armstrong Clark Wood Deck Stain is a highly regarded oil based stain formulated with 5 generations of stain industry experience. Armstrong Clark is available in several formulas: Transparent, semi-transparent, and semi-solid colors.

Armstrong Clark Deck Stains are uniquely blended with drying and non-drying oils that isolate from each other during application. The non-drying oils penetrate the wood fibers and help rejuvenate and condition lost natural oils while the drying oils cure on the surface to lock in the conditioning oils and form a barrier of weather protection at the surface.

Armstrong Clark Stain Review

Armstrong Clark Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 9

– The initial appearance of Armstrong Clark was a rich deep finish with naturally enhanced wood grain showing through the semi-solid formula. Our choice of the Cedar Semi-Transparent color had a rich cedar tone.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 8

– Upon our 2-year inspection, Armstrong Clark Wood Deck Stain produced above average UV resistance. Being a semi-transparent Cedar color we projected better than average UV shielding and it did not disappoint. It would seem to us that the transparent colors would deliver slightly less UV shielding due to less pigment in the formula, while the semi-solid colors of the AC would have slightly better UV protection when in full sun.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 9

– No peeling was detected at the 2-year point. There was slight wearing on the high traffic areas, around the furniture, and on the stairs.

Cost Per Square Foot: 9

– Armstrong Clark Deck Stain can be purchased for $38.99-$45.99 depending on the opacity of the formula. In our test experience, Armstrong Clark had one of the best spread rates of any stain. We used a total of 3.5 gallons on our 600 square foot deck applied in one coat.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 8

– At 2 years we noticed some slight mold growth on top of the Armstrong Clark stain in some shaded areas. We did not detect any mildew spores within the stain as the mildew spores could be wiped away using a wet towel.

Ease of Application: 9

– The Armstrong Clark Deck Stain was super easy to apply and extremely user-friendly. Upon the manufacturer’s claims of being able to apply in direct sunlight, we tested our application on a 90-degree day in full sun. We were surprised the stain did not dry too quickly and applied evenly in those conditions. There were no excess dripping issues on the railings even though we applied using a pump sprayer and back wiped with a stain brush. The semi-transparent stain applied well using this method.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 8.5

– Our 2-year test of Armstrong Clark Stain in Semi-Trans Cedar color did show signs of slight darkening from its original color. We figured this was likely due to a higher solid content of the formula. The AC is over 70% solids, containing both linseed and paraffin oils.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 8.5

– Because Armstrong Clark Wood Deck Stain penetrates well and did not overly darken it would be easy to recoat. A simple cleaning with a wood deck cleaner to remove dirt, grime, and mold spores would be plenty sufficient prior to reapplying.

Overall Score Armstrong Clark Stain at 2 Year Period: 8.5

– Armstrong Clark Wood Stain held up well at our 2-year test mark. Easy to apply and terrific coverage rates, raise Armstrong Clark to a high level. No peeling and only a slight darkening color shift were more than acceptable. Easy to maintain and prep prior to recoating. Armstrong Clark is definitely one of our top choices for a professional durable finish that lasts and is easy to work with in the future.

Product Information:

More Info: ArmstrongClarkStain.com
Cost: $38.99 per Gallon, $209.99 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Transparent, Semi-Transparent, Semi-Solid – Oil-Based
Available Colors: Transparent Natural, Transparent Cedar, Transparent Redwood, Semi-Trans Cedar, Semi-Trans Rustic Brown, Semi-Trans Sierra Redwood, Semi-Trans Amber, Semi-Trans Mahogany, Semi-Solid Mountain Cedar, Semi-Solid Woodland Brown, Semi-Solid Oxford Brown, Semi-Solid Sequoia, Semi-Transparent Chestnut, Semi-Trans Natural Oak, Semi-Trans Black Walnut for Hardwoods
Application Temperature: 50-110 F
Coats Required: 1 Coat
Coverage Per Gallon: 200-250 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 8-72 Hours, Depending on UV exposure and air temps
Cleanup: Mineral Spirits
VOC Compliant: Under 50 VOCs. Compliant in All 50 States and Los Angeles Counties
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Armstrong Clark

Test Deck Stats:
Deck Wood Type: Pressure Treated Pine
Deck Square Footage: 600
UV Exposure: Full Sun
How Many Years Tested: 2 Years
Stain Color Used:  Semi-Transparent Cedar

*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take inconsideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.