How To Apply Thompson Water Seal On Decks: The Best Way to Protect Your Outdoor Features

If you want to protect your decks, patios, pathways, and fences from the damaging effects of the weather, you should be using a waterproof sealant like Thompson’s Water Sealer.

This product is easy to apply and it will keep your outdoor features looking great while protecting them from the elements.

So, if you’re looking for how to prolong the life of your decks, patios, pathways, and fences, be sure how to apply

Thompson Water Seal and read further to find out how to use this product safely!

Why Do You Need A Deck Water Sealer?

A lot of people think that all they need to do to maintain their deck is to sweep it off every now and then. But if you want your deck to last for years to come, you need to be doing more than just giving it the occasional once-over. One of the best ways to protect your deck is to seal it with a water-resistant sealer. Here are a few reasons why you should do this:

1. To Prevent Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew love nothing more than a nice, dark, damp place to grow. If you live in an area with high humidity or get a lot of rainfall, your deck is the perfect environment for mold and mildew to take hold. Once mold and mildew start growing on your deck, they’re very difficult to get rid of. And even if you do manage to get rid of them, they’ll just come back as soon as the conditions are right. By sealing your deck boards with a water-resistant sealer, you can prevent mold and mildew from ever getting a foothold in the first place.

2. To Protect Against Water Damage

Water can wreak havoc on untreated wood decks. The expansion and contraction that happens as water freezes and thaws can cause cracks and splits in the wood. And if those cracks and splits are left untreated, they can quickly turn into rot and decay. Sealing your deck with a water-resistant sealer will help protect it against water damage by providing a barrier between the wood and the water.

3. To Keep Your Deck Looking Good

Let’s face it: an unsealed wood deck is going to start looking pretty shabby after a few seasons of exposure to the elements. Sunlight will bleach out the color of the wood, while dirt, pollen, and leaves will accumulate in the cracks and crevasses. A sealed deck will still require some maintenance, but it will be much easier to keep clean than an unsealed one. Plus, you won’t have to worry about replacing boards as often because the sealer will help prolong the life of your deck and protect it against sun exposure and any deck stain.

How To Apply A Thompson Water Seal On Decks

1. What You'll Need

Before you begin, you’ll need to gather the following materials:

2. Prepare The Deck Surface

The first step is to clean your entire surface and remove any dirt, debris, or mildew. You can do this by power washing your deck or using cleaners and a stiff-bristled brush. Be sure to give your deck plenty of time to dry before moving on to the next step. If there is any old sealant on your deck, now is also the time to remove it. Once your deck is clean and dry, you’re ready to start applying the new deck sealer and protect your space from any deck stains, direct sunlight, or damp wood.

3. Apply the Sealant

There are two ways that you can apply Thompson’s water seal – with a soft-bristled brush or roller, or with a sprayer. If you opt for the brush or roller method, pour a generous amount of sealant onto your applicator and begin working it into the surface of the wood in even strokes. For best results, work in small sections so that the sealant doesn’t have a chance to dry before you’re finished applying it.

If you’re using a sprayer, apply the sealant in long, even strokes, and be sure to keep a wet edge at all times so that there are no visible lines where one coat ends and another begins. Once you’ve evenly applied the sealant to your entire deck, allow it to dry for at least 24 hours before using your exterior surfaces again.

4. Enjoy Your Newly Sealed Deck!

That’s it – you’re all done! Your newly sealed deck will be well protected from the elements and will last for years with proper care. Be sure to re-seal your deck every one to two years as needed to keep it looking its best and protect it against water and any solid or semi-transparent stain.

FAQs

What is the best way to apply Thompson Water Seal?

Prepare the surface. Make sure the surface is clean, dry, and free of dirt, dust, oil, grease, or other contaminants. You can use a pressure washer or a garden hose to clean the surface. If the surface is dirty or has mildew, you can use a Thompson Water Seal cleaner to clean it.

Apply the water seal. You can apply Thompson Water Seal with a brush, roller, or sprayer. If you are using a sprayer, use a coarse setting to avoid overspray. Apply the water seal liberally, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Allow the water seal to dry. The water seal will dry to a clear, satin finish. It will take about 2 hours for the water seal to dry completely.

Do you spray or brush Thompson Water Seal?

You can apply Thompson Water Seal with a brush, roller, or sprayer. The best method for you will depend on the size of the area you are sealing and your personal preference.

Spraying is the fastest method, but it can be messy. You will need to wear goggles and a mask to protect yourself from overspray.
Brushing is a more controlled method, but it can be more time-consuming.
Rolling is a good compromise between speed and control.

How long should Thompson's Water Seal dry before rain?

Thompson’s Water Seal should be dry to the touch in 2 hours under normal conditions. However, it is best to wait at least 24 hours before exposing the sealed surface to rain. This will give the water seal time to fully cure and protect the surface from the elements.

If you are applying Thompson’s Water Seal in humid or rainy weather, you may need to wait longer for the water seal to dry. It is also important to avoid applying the water seal to a surface that is wet or damp. This can prevent the water seal from curing properly and could lead to premature peeling or cracking.

How many coats of Thompson Water Seal do I need?

Generally, one coat of Thompson Water Seal is sufficient. However, if you are applying the water seal to a surface that will be exposed to direct sunlight or heavy rain, you may want to apply two coats. This will help ensure that the surface is properly protected.

Conclusion

According to NADRA, applying Thompson’s Water Seal is a great way to protect your deck from weathering, fading, or any solid stain. Applying the sealant is easy, and with a few simple tips, you can keep your natural wood deck looking great all year long. If you need help protecting your deck, get in touch with us today. We would be happy to walk you through the application process or answer any questions you may have about Thompson’s Water Seal products or deck sealers.