Beth n Rod

In order to answer, I have some questions for you to consider in relevance. Is the deck low to the ground or higher up (2' high +)? Which direction is it facing? (Reason is to consider stain type and environment.) Do you have a lot of shade tree's? Are there any water features near to the deck, a hot tub on or nearby, or pool? (humidity source) Does your climate have any extended dry times? (month or more at a spell) For the planter boxes, They would be best if they were sealed throughout and the end grain cuts capped with an end grain sealer. The design should have slatted bottoms to allow water to drain quickly and the boxes themselves holding the soil (in my opinion) should be in a liner the box is built to accomodate. This prevents the soil from catalizing with the minerals and reacting to degrade the wood. Ever see planter rings on a deck? This is what I am talking about. The soil is rich in minerals and once water is added along with the pH of the soil, brings about a catalization which begins to break down the wood and cause it to rot. Many designs forego the liner for aesthetics and cost reasons. Your call. Meanwhile, the answers to my initial questions will help to determine which stain base (Oil or Acrylic) would give you the best performance and set expectations for maintenance. I have a day in the office today and can answer your question if you are able to respond soon. Otherwise, it may be later towards the weekend when I get my next chance to respond due to a log home we are beginning which involves travel that takes up my office time. Rod Rod

I have moved your post to the DIY area, since you appear to be a homeowner. Good luck with your project. Beth

Cool deal! The next one will be here in the DC area! WOOT!!!!! Beth

Can't wait to see them. :-) Beth

Good to see you. Rod

Lucky!!! Have fun! Beth

So what's up with you John? How's things up your way? Beth

Thanks Amy!! :-) Beth

Hi Ricky! Good to see you back and it's great to hear how your business and your personal life are going. Good stuff all around. Beth

Thanks John, Rod

Mosmatic Swivels....

The mosmatic swivels I use don't get stiffer. When they fail they just don't work. But that has taken years and so far the ones I have installed have been in service about 4 years. Rod

You need a swivel in addition to the whip. The purpose is to give you a replaceable section to take the abuse of bends from extended periods of use. If the whip goes out, you are not down because you still have the main hose to continue with till you can replace the whip. Rod

That's impressive! Beth

The casings are often vinyl, not wood. Beth

Sounds like a great time! Beth

Here's the scoop. The schedule is here and if you scroll down you will see info on the classes too. www.ceta.org/events Beth

I'm with Shane. Beth

That's too long to let it age. Beth

Have a GREAT time!!!! Beth

Well, I guess you learned that there are safe and unsafe ways to operate equipment. I'm so glad you were not using a chainsaw. Please, be safe. Beth

I'm not an early-bird by choice, only by necessity. Besides, no one posts earlier or later than you do. You're like...the 24 hour man! Beth

According to the WRCLA, it is recommended that new wood be prepped and sealed asap once it is installed. The link I provided is directly in response to your question. Hope this helps. Rod

Have FUN!!! Beth

They have added MORE sessions. They are adding one amphitheater event on the 5th and on on the 6th of November on the Trade-show floor and asked me to speak on Marketing again during those sessions. Seating is for 100 and standing room for at least that many more. I said yes! Should be a great time! Beth