JamieP

I realize there a lot of different factors that can determine a fences life span, but what do you think the ratio would be from Stained Vs Not Stained, all other variables controlled. The Stained fence would also be on a routine maintenance plan every 2-3 years. Would 5 to 1 seem reasonable?

I need some suggestions for the best way to restore this deck. Also what stain product do you recommend? Why? What would you charge? 761 Sq Ft + 95 Linear Ft of railing. Thanks in advance

Im sorry I shouldn't have asked for pricing. I mainly wanted to know the best process for cleaning this deck. Sanding?? Stripper/Neutralizer?? Thanks

Yeah. 4 benches 5 x 2

Rick, Just throwing this out there; but would the boiled linseed mildew growth not be attributed to moisture vapor and relative humidity?

Bakers is .375 Spirits

So its a consensus that it will make a fence last longer? That to me is the major selling point, extend your investment, and you get the appearance as an added benefit. But the appearance is what sells, and when you combine the two values of the service it is very hard to decide not to stain your fence. In my research I have fences in my area costing homeowners approximately $60/month, and the privilege to look at an eroding discolored unattractive fence is a freebie!

Bakers vs Ready Seal

Do most people pressure wash to clean wood during maintenance coats with paraffin oil treatment? Only makes sense that the high pressure would remove layers of the wood, therefore decreasing the life span. Therefore is bleach the best form of cleaning before applying a new coat? Also with paraffin treatments I'm starting to think that the grey that occurs after a couple of years is UV damage vs mildew growth. Due to the fact that the grey occurs simultaneously with loss of pigment. Is this possible? As far as staining vs not staining, if you were to look at just the pickets, and lets say just cedar. I think you would have a very dramatic difference between a picket treated every 2-3 years vs one thats not. I think the one that has no treatment could have erosion problems within the first 5 years that could lead to a failure of that board, and the need to replace. Where as a board that is maintained could last 5 times as long and I'm thinking possibly 10 times as long. Anyone else buy that?

Thanks. What about the post? You think pressure treated post stained would be 5 to 1? Does anyway market their staining services with a financial comparison vs unstained?

Could someone please explain the role of the three major components in solvents based stains during application, and the changes that occur to each throughout exposure. Specifically pigment, and protection against UV. How does it work? And what should a good product look like after 3 years?

Thanks, greatly appreciated. What about Sprinklers? What exactly causes the wood to not only lighten, but also to cause damage to the woods fibers, causing the affected areas to not be as receptive to the stain(Mineral Deposits + Chloride?). The darker areas that form usually on top of the arc is mildew correct? How do you determine the difference between greying caused by UV damage vs Mildew? Sorry for all of the questions. Hopefully the answers will help others as well.

Thanks for the response. As far as components I was referring to paraffin oil, mineral spirits, fungicide. Is that 12-18 months horizontal or vertical? At three years on a fence with a lighter color, there would more than likely be little to no pigment still present?

Im in TX. I would like to know pros/cons on following stains for fences: Bakers Grey Away Wood defender Ready Seal Any Other Recommendations TIA