Choosing Wood Deck Sealer
Wood deck sealers are an essential part of maintaining the appearance and longevity of wooden decks. With numerous options available, it can be challenging to choose the best sealer for the job. This article will provide insights into different types of wood deck sealers, including hybrid deck sealers and stains.
Types of Wood Deck Sealers
Oil-based sealers contain different types of oil and can be coatings or penetrants, or a blend of both. Coatings leave a surface coat on the wood and can disguise flaws or stains on the surface, but they require careful application and are prone to visible wear in high-traffic areas. Penetrants, on the other hand, do not leave a surface coat and will not disguise flaws or stains. However, they do not show any traffic pattern wear and are fully forgiving, meaning drips or lap marks will not show. Water-based sealers are becoming more popular due to their ease of use, but they are film-forming finishes and can be difficult to maintain.
Hybrid Deck Sealers and Stains
Hybrid deck sealers and stains are a combination of oil-based and water-based sealers that provide the best of both worlds. They offer the durability of oil-based sealers and the easy maintenance of water-based sealers. These products penetrate deeply into the wood while also forming a surface layer that protects against moisture, UV rays, and mildew. Hybrid deck sealers and stains also offer a range of color options that can enhance the wood’s natural beauty.
Permeability
One of the essential factors to consider when choosing a wood deck sealer is permeability. A sealer must allow the wood to “breathe,” meaning it allows ordinary humidity to enter and leave the wood, but it should prevent droplets like rain from entering. A quality permeable sealer will allow sap to exit the wood without damaging the sealer as it passes through.
Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are another important factor to consider. VOCs are the compounds that evaporate from the wood deck sealer and can cause air pollution and health hazards. It is essential to choose a wood deck sealer with low VOCs or zero VOCs to ensure a healthier environment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wood deck sealer can be challenging, but understanding the different types and their features can make the decision easier. Hybrid deck sealers and stains offer the durability of oil-based sealers and the easy maintenance of water-based sealers. A quality permeable sealer that allows the wood to breathe and low VOCs or zero VOCs are essential factors to consider when choosing a wood deck sealer.
