Preventative Maintenance

ACQ pressure-treated wood should be protected and maintained to keep it looking good season after season. Periodic application of a high-quality, clear water repellent or semi-transparent stain with water repellent will help minimize warping, checking, splitting and other weathering problems.

  • Add colour and water repellency with a wood sealer
    • Start by applying a topical sealant to your new project for surface protection. We do not recommend the use of a conventional multicoat paint system or varnish as the performance is always disappointing and repainting often has to be preceded by scraping and sanding.
  • Solid Stains
    • It is recommended that solid wood sealers on vertical projects such as fences, which have more pigment.
  • Semi-transparent Sealants
    • This type of wood sealant is suitable for vertical or horizontal surfaces such as deck, rails, siding, and fence.
  • Clear Sealants
    • This type of sealant has no pigment or colour. It will provide weather protection but fading will occur more rapidly than colour sealants. The wood will eventually fade to gray which may or may not be the look you desired.
  • Periodic Maintenance
    • Simply apply cleaner/brightener every one to three years depending on the appearance of the surface. Periodic washing will help remove surface dirt. This will also help prevent the buildup of pollen, debris and spores that can cause and accelerate mold/mildew growth.
  • Restoring Gray, Weathered Wood
    • Power wash the surface and clean with a cleaner/brightener to help bring the wood back to its natural appearance. You may use a stiff bristle deck brush when applying the brightener followed by a thorough rinsing with water. After the deck is completely dry, apply a wood sealer.