Do It Yourself

Stain It.
How-To Protect & Beautify Your Wood

Choose the Right Look & Finish

When deciding to stain your deck, porch, or trim, it is important to determine if it's time to re-treat the surface by performing the splash test. Splash water on the surface and if it's absorbed rapidly, darkening the wood, it's time to reapply a waterproofer. If water beads up or otherwise sits on top of surface, then surface does not need protection at this time.
When choosing a stain finish you need to consider the characteristics of each type and the ultimate look you want to achieve.
- For staining larger projects, such as decks, siding, fences, wood/composite decks, outdoor wood furniture or exterior wood furniture, use Thompson's® WaterSeal® Oil or Latex Stains.
- Also, when staining smaller projects, such as wooden chairs or outdoor furniture, get the beauty and protection found in other Thompson's® WaterSeal® stains, plus the control and ease that only a gel stain can provide by using Thompson's® WaterSeal® No Drip Exterior Gel Stain.
- With the large variety of color that Thompson's® WaterSeal® stains offer, explore your creative side and check out the decorative tips for staining mentioned in Step 4.

Project Steps

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