To simplify everything that goes into getting your project going—from knowing where to start to choosing the products you’ll use—start by familiarizing yourself with what is in a stain and how each of those elements works to solve the outdoor surface issue you’re facing. This will ensure you’re better prepared to get the task done—and done right—the first time around. To make your job even easier, Thompson’s is here to guide you through the product selection process, starting with your pain point. 

But first, it’s important to understand the product options available. Stains used for outdoor furniture and deck upkeep are formulated to protect wood furniture, decks and more from moisture, rot, mold, mildew and even sunlight. Most, like Thompson’s WaterSeal, are water-based with film-forming properties that bind to and protect the wood’s surface by repelling water. They also contain titanium dioxide, a substance also found in sunscreens, that not only adds brightness and alters opacity levels, but acts as a UV filter to minimize damage from the sun’s rays. 

Sealers, on the other hand, typically have a transparent or clear finish and are usually designed to form a protective layer on top of the wood surface. This film works to seal moisture out, warding off mold, mildew and rot, that can lead to graying, fading and potentially even cracking and splitting. Using less pigmented products is a great way to showcase the natural look of your wood, while using more pigmented products increases overall durability and UV protection.