These coatings show off wood to its best advantage while protecting it from the elements. This Old House decodes the differences between the various types of stain so that you can get the look you want
The wood particles in wood-and-plastic composite decking are just as vulnerable to the sun as solid wood and will turn dingy over time. Specialized semitransparent stains for composites allow you to restore or change the color of weatherbeaten decking. These last a year or two. You can also use a standard solid-color acrylic deck finish and get 3 to 5 years of service. High-traffic areas may need more frequent attention.
Shown: Messmer's Composite Deck Finish in Navajo Red; messmers.com
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