Deck Defense
One-Coat Wood Deck Sealer
Deck Defense is the best wood stain for your decks, rails, and fences. Our formula provides better performance, longer life, and easier application. Although it is a waterborne product, Deck Defense has penetrating properties similar to oil finishes.
However, unlike oil-based products, it hardens into a lattice-like coating that supports and strengthens the natural wood fibers from the inside out. Customers can feel secure in the knowledge that their investment protects surfaces from the natural damaging effects of sun, wind, and water.
This wood deck sealer is easy to apply and maintain. Coat decks, fences, railings, and other horizontal surfaces in seven standard colors. It can complement our exterior wall finishes and custom colors to match home decor.
Reapplying wood deck stain over previously coated surfaces is possible when you follow surface preparation guidelines and clean properly.
Questions? Read our Deck Defense FAQs here.
Available Wood Deck Stain Sizes
Deck Defense is available in one and 5-gallon pails. One gallon works well for small decks, railings, touch-ups, and maintenance projects. Large decks or full-property applications may need the 5-gallon size for additional coverage and fewer interruptions during application.
Color samples are also available to help with finish selection before starting a project.
Product Information
Outdoor wood endures sun, moisture, and foot traffic. Deck Defense helps preserve the appearance of those surfaces while delivering rich color and dependable performance.
Features
- Excellent UV protection
- Long-lasting color retention
- Breathable film allows decking to dry out
How to Store
Keep Deck Defense in a stable environment away from sunlight and severe temperatures.
Application Steps
- Remove dirt and mildew from the target surface.
- Allow the wood to dry completely.
- Stir thoroughly before use.
- Apply one even coat. Brushes, stain pads, or an approved sprayer will do.
- Work with the grain and avoid over-applying the product.
Maintenance
After use, clean brushes, pads, and other application equipment. If material remains in the container, reseal it immediately. Proper handling helps keep wood deck sealer ready for future touch-ups, repairs, and maintenance coats.
Resource Links
Application Temperature
40° to 90°F
Application Methods
- Airless sprayer
- Brush, Roller, Application Pads
- Back-brush into surface
- Refer to product label for application instructions
Surface Preparation
- Clean and dry
- Free of mold and mildew
- Never use steel wool
Special Instructions
- Back-brushing required
- Stir container every 15 minutes
- Maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks
- Avoid applying in direct sun
- If desired, apply second coat while first coat is still wet
Shelf Life
1 Year
Frequency
As needed, depending on exposure
Drying Time
- Dry to the touch in 15 minutes; tack-free in 30 minutes
- Wait 24 hours before returning heavy items
Coverage Rate
- 175-250 square feet / gallon
Recommended Products
Application Videos & Tips
Deck Defense offers superior protection for decks, fencing and railings. Easy to apply and long lasting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Deck / Log & Timber Defense FAQ
How Do I Apply Deck Defense?
Applying Deck Defense is very easy, and many methods or “tools” can be used. On surfaces such as decking or fencing, a low-pressure pump-up sprayer is the most economical. Learn more here.
What are the maintenance guidelines?
Good maintenance for decks, as well as other wood surfaces, will prolong the need for re-staining or removal. Deck Defense will not flake or peel when properly applied, so a general cleaning should be done every year with Log Wash. Maintenance requirements will vary with exposure and environmental conditions, and heavy traffic. Expect to see wear in high traffic areas such as steps and traffic patterns first. This does not mean protection is gone, but indicates for appearance purposes that it’s time for a light re-coat.
How should the surface be prepped?
First and foremost; the surface needs to be clean and dry. New treated wood needs to “season” prior to application. This process will vary with temperature and humidity and actual moisture content of the new wood. On older wood, a thorough cleaning with Wood Renew will help to restore the color of the wood and remove stains and dirt. Make sure to adequately rinse with water and check the pH of the run-off water to make sure all the surfaces have been rinsed well. The Ph of run-off water should be around 6.5 to 7.5 (depending on the pH of the water source). Make sure to check fasteners and the condition of wood prior to cleaning and replace any decayed or unstable wood.
Tips on applying Log & Timber Defense?
Log & Timber Defense is applied like our Lifeline stains, including the backbrushing step. Stir the container every 15 minutes with a paint stick to ensure an even color. Apply the finish in small sections to maintain a wet edge, avoiding lap marks. This prevents lap marks and large sections from looking uneven.
