When to Seal a New Yellow Jack Pine Deck

Selecting a Sealer

• There are many readily available quality sealers. All sealers are either oil- or water-based. Water-based sealers are generally less durable but easier to apply and less costly when compared to oil-based products. In addition, sealers may be clear, semitransparent or pigmented. Pigmented sealers are the least permeable and will provide superior ultraviolet protection, but they can wear unevenly in high-traffic areas of decks. On the other hand, clear or semi-transparent sealers provide a minimal degree of UV protection, which can cause wood to turn gray over time.

Timing and Preparation

• For best results, wait until the temperature is consistently between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit before applying a sealer. Remove all dirt and dust from the surface of the wood. If the deck is sprayed with water while cleaning or if it rains, wait at least 48 hours to allow the surface to completely dry out. Similarly, do not allow the deck to get wet for at least 24 hours after application.

Recoating Applications

• Frequency of wood stain recoating will vary with level of sun exposure, prevailing weather conditions, amount of deck use, and the type and quality of sealer used. Applying sealer should be considered part of regular deck maintenance. Conduct a sprinkle test periodically to determine if another sealer coat is needed. Horizontal surfaces are likely to require sealer recoating much sooner than vertical surfaces. Most jack pine decks will continue to look their best if they are sealed once a year.

Sealing Benefits

• Wood sealers are a type of permeable coating that block water penetration. Sealed wood should not cup, warp or split. Sealers protect wood from harmful UV rays, discourage mildew growth and make the wood they coats more resistant to decay. The initial sealer application and future maintenance recoatings are an easy and inexpensive form of deck maintenance. Ultimately, timely applications of wood sealer will preserve your deck and extend its service life.