Last Updated on January 30, 2023 by TWP Help
TWPStainHelp.com Tips:
Difference Between TWP 100 vs. TWP 1500
The TWP brand of exterior wood and deck stain has been around for over 2 decades. the TWP 1500 is the only registered EPA wood preservative on the market today. It is made using only the best quality raw materials to offer superior wood protection. TWP Total Wood Preservative/Protectant comes in several different series of formulas. Knowing the differences can help you to make a more informed decision.
TWP 100 Series Stain
The TWP 100 Series is the original formula of deck stain and Protectant. It is an exclusive blend, which protects wood from becoming damaged. This particular series of TWP wood stain has been respected for over 25 years.
TWP 100 Series Wood Protectant penetrates the wood to enhance its natural color. It comes in 6 varieties of wood tones. It will prevent the wood from turning gray by blocking out harmful sunrays and has exceptional water-shedding properties.
The 100 series is not prone to mold or mildew and is best used on wood siding, decks, fences, and hardwoods.
TWP 100 is restricted in 36 states due to higher VOC levels. It cannot be shipped to these states: California, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Northern VA, Pennsylvania, Parts of Arizona, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana.
TWP is about 30-40% in solid content. It absorbs very well and dries in 2-6 hours for most scenarios.
1-2 coats depending on the age of the wood. If doing two coats, apply “Wet on Wet“. The first coat is a saturating coat, followed by a light coat to ensure absorption and even application.
TWP 1500 Series Stain
The new 1500 Series low VOC formula wood stain is compliant in all 50 states. The 1500 series wood stain is formulated to penetrate the wood better, to dry faster, and outperform previous versions of TWP stains. It is also a registered EPA wood preservative.
TWP 1500 Series Deck Stain stops structural damage caused by wood rot and decay. It enhances and prolongs a wood surface’s natural color and eliminates graying. It resists water and moisture, which can cause warping, cracking, splitting, and freeze/thaw damage. TWP 1500 uses mildewcides that help eliminate the growth of mold and mildew.
TWP 1500 is roughly 60-70% in solid content. The absorption rate is a little slower than the 100 Series and dries in 4-12 hours for most scenarios.
1-2 coats depending on the age of the wood. If doing two coats, best to apply two light coats “Wet on Wet“.
The new Total Wood Preservative 1500 Series Stain is easy to apply and maintain. It will keep your exterior wood surfaces beautiful and protected for many years to come.
I have used the 100 series for my deck railings and stairs in the past. I am trying to finish a project but currently the 100 series is out of stock in my area and the distributor said that I can mix a new 1500 series pecan color with the 100 series pecan and dark oak that I have, and it would be fine. He also said the 1500 series is a superior product especially for vertical surfaces such as log homes whereas the 100 series is meant for decks. He also said there were 30% solids in the 1500 series but I see other %’s on this website. Is this correct and what would the possible results be if I did mix the two types of stain?
Thanks in advance for your help with this.
You should not mix between series and best to stain with the same series. He is also way off on the solid content. More like 60-70%.
BTW, the 100 series Pecan and the 1500 Series Pecan and not the exact same color.
After reading, and re-reading the info, I’m still a bit confused. We have just installed a new deck in Minnesota.–cedar-toned pressured treated pine. What would be a correct wood moisture meter reading in order to be able to apply TWP? We want to do a “picture frame” application with dark tones around the edges and cedar tone in the middle. It sounds like the 1500 series has more solids and a deeper color. Is that correct? Which would be better for our location — 100 or 1500, and why do you say that?
You cannot stain new wood right away. It is not about moisture but the porosity of the wood grain: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Use the 100 for MN. Colors are not darker between series.
I realize you want to sell product but in terms of prepping new wood (ecolife, from 84 Lumber) on a deck built and exposed to sun for five months, what’s the difference between a light sanding and applying both a Step 1 Wood Deck Cleaner and a Step 2 Wood Deck Brightener?
Sanding closes the pores of the wood while the cleaner and brightener open the pores. This allows better and deeper penetration of the TWP.
Fair enough. I do need to sand. Will the cleaner and brightener re-open them, or would you recommend, say, a power wash?
Sand with no finer than 80 grit. Use the cleaner and brightener while pressure washing after.
Thanks much!
What stain would you recommend for a new white cedar log swing? The 100 or the 1500?
Use the 1500 after wait and prep: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
I stained my cedar deck several years ago with TWP100. I applied a touch-up coat last year. I have no more supply and it is not available in my area. Can I apply TWP 1500 onto the older, gracefully fading TWP 100?
Yes, if you prep with the Gemini Restore kit and pressure washing: https://www.twpstain.com/gemini-s-restore-a-deck-cleaner-and-brightener-kit
Hello, I have Trex (Woodland Brown) with a wood railing. I was thinking on just using the 1500 Series (natural) for the railing, unless you have a better suggestion. Thank-you…
That would work well. See her for photos: https://www.twpstain.com/twp-1500-series-stain-colors-and-photo-albums/
Last month I re-stained my front porch (15 year old cedar) for the first time since I initially stained it with TWP 1503 two years earlier. Before re-staining, I prepped the porch with the RAD treatment and made sure it dried out for two days before and then it was dry for two days after I re-stained it. After I finished re-staining, I used terry cloths to soak up any excess before it dried.
Everything looked great, but I’ve noticed what looks like excess stain seeping through the cracks to the surface of the wood. I rubbed it, really hard, with a terry cloth to remove the residue, and it worked, but the process is very “labor intensive” to say the least… is there a better way to do this? Like should I use water or some sort of solvent?
As always, many thanks!
That is sap leeching. You could try some mineral spirits.
For a NEW deck how long should should i wait to stain it, deck is in direct sun for most of the day ? Should I use 100 or 1500 I live in Missouri
See here. https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Use the 100 Series.
If my state allows both 100 and 1500, which one performs better on decks, fences or siding?
They perform about the same and last about the same.
I live in Montana where my 15 year old deck stays covered in snow 6 months of the year, and half shade and sun the other 6 months. Should I use the 100 or 1500 series? Would like to order tomorrow. Thanks.
TWP 100 Series.
Thank you. Since the deck is wet a lot, I am concerned about mold/mildew/algae and didn’t see that the 100 series had the mildewcides that the 1500 does.
Yes, the TWP 100 has EPA registered mildewcides.
I’ve been using twp 1500 series for the last several years on my decks and reapply about every other year. Should I continue using this product or switch to another.
Stay with the same.
Can the 100 or 1500 series be used for outdoor furniture?
Yes, they can.
Hello, I applied TWP 1503 to my front porch (cedar) in Sept 2017 and I’m planning on putting on a fresh coat with the can (and 1/2) I have leftover… how do I prep the surface before repainting (BTW, I still have some RAD cleaner/brightener leftover, should I use that)? Many thanks!
Yes, prep with the RAD first before reapplying the stain.
Thanks! Follow up question… since it’s been two years, should I apply two coats (like I did the first time) or just one coat? Also, our big new puppy has scratched up the front steps with his paws going in and out of the house (see picture, culprit is in the top window)… any remedies to prevent this in the future? BTW, really happy with the stain, it’s held up great!
Just one coat. Not a way to stop dog claws from denting or scratching the wood.
Two more quick questions… I used the RAD cleaner and I’m getting ready to stain tomorrow…
1. What should I do about exposed nail heads? Standard wood putty or leave them?
2. The spots where the dog scratched up the steps with his paws, should I sand that down or just put the stain on top of it? As always, many thanks!
I have an older wood fence/ house panels that I am wanting to buy TWP 1500 for:
1. Would two coats last longer than 1 coat would?
2. What sort of maintenance do I need to do in the future for this stain (ie, strip and restain in X amount of years from now or just paint over the TWP coat again)
1. Yes.
2. Clean and recoat as needed.
I am looking for a medium or dark shade of gray, why are there no gray shades in the 1500 series?
Sorry but not enough demand for a gray in the 1500 Series. Have you looked at the Slate Gray in the 200 Series?
I have about a gallon TWP Rustic Oak 1516. The can says it is the Max VOC formula. I got it about two years ago. Can it be mixed with what appears to be the new Low VOC formula?
Mix with a new gallon of the TWP 1516. It is the same formula, not any different.
I live in Wisconsin and want to stain my deck a gray color (Cape Cod Gray). I have used the 100 series for many years but would like to step to the 1500 series for this project. Do you offer a Cape Cod or Driftwood Gray color in the newer 1500 series of TWP stains?
If I need to order the 100 series to get a gray color tone, why is this more expensive than the other colors in the 100 series of TWP stains? I do want a semi transparent and not a solid color stain. Please clarify.
The 1500 does not come in a gray color. The grays have more pigment and cost more to make, hence why they cost more. Closer to semi-solid in appearance for the grays.
Hi Marc,
We were thinking of staining our old deck (15+yrs old) with the Cape Cod Gray. Could you send a picture? I would love to see how it covers and looks. I would Greatly appreciate it! Thanks!
Hi. At this point I am still in the throws of the prep. It has been quite a process since I have been removing a Sikkens product. Still need to sand and then brighten and let dry. The weather has not been our side this summer so not sure when we will get this accomplished. If you want a pic soon I would ask the community to have someone forward a shot taken recently. Such is the world of working outside! Best of luck.
Do i need to apply a sealer to my cypress post after using 1500?
No need and you cannot apply a sealer over top of the TWP products.
Thank you!
Can you use a chip brush for applying 1500 around columns and trim and then feather in to pad applied areas?
Is painter’s blue tap OK for masking edges?
Tomorrow I buy two gallons from Purcellville Lumber in Purcellville, VA. Really helpful professionals.
Yes on chip brush but a regular brush us much better. Blue tape should work.
What is involved in stripping previous stain?
This would depend on the previous stain brand and type? Pictures would help as well.
What other series are there beside 100 and 1500?
We also offer the 200 Series.
Hello, my deck is approximately 16 years old. It was gray and moldy in places, did not appear to have been treated. In the the past I have treated 3 times hoping to extend the life of the deck. First treatment- semi transparent stain (oil and some brown color, 2 coats), don’t remember the brand, but bought at Lowe’s, turned a dark color, was ok but “looked” hot. Second treatment -Semi transparent stain (lighter) About two years later, applied 2 coats semi solid, red cedar – it was ok but can no longer see the wood grain but ok because it was ugly and splitting, the red seemed to attract dirt, I want to change to cape cod grey — should I use 10o or 1500. Live In Houston Texas half of deck gets 8- 10 hrs direct sun, can I paint grey over red? Can I golithter? The red was Olympic elite, I have pressure washed deck but the red did not strip off, painted a semi solid Cabot in light Rey in a small patch area and it covered well needs two coats but want finish with two deck is 16 by 16. Thank you
You must remove all current stain first before using the TWP as it cannot be applied over your current coating. Strip and sanding. Brighten the wood after before using the TWP.
I live in a state that doesn’t allow use of TWP 100. Since TWP 1500 contains so much more solids, is it a good product to use on an ipe deck? If so, what color would you suggest allowing the natural beauty of the ipe to show through?
You can use it on Ipe. Just one light coat. Most use the Rustic 1516 color.
Can TWP 1500 be applied on a deck that has been stained with an older version of TWP stain? (1530).
The 1530 is part of the 1500 Series, not an older version.
Is it still available?
The 1530? Of course: https://www.twpstain.com/twp-1500-series
Whats the best stain to use for a deck exposed to the sun most of the day in eastern Kansas?
The 100 or 1500 would work equally well.
I previously used TWP 1530 -natural. I will be stripping the deck this year. Can I now use Twp 100 series and if so which color would be closest to the 1530 natural. I live in Wisconsin.
You can use the 100 after you strip and brighten. 101 Cedartone would be closest in color to the 1530 Natural.
I am going to restrain a green treat pool deck. It was last stained 4 years ago. I don’t recall if I used TWP 1500 or 100. What would you recommend?
Either series will work as long as your state allows both. If not, use the TWP 1500 Series.
I live in Connecticut. I an seeking stain for ipe wood installed on exterior deck. What product do you recommend for this very hard exotic wood?
Only the TWP 1500 is allowed in CT. With IPE, most use the TWP 1516 Rustic. Just one light coat. Prep well first. IPE requires an annual application. Clean and recoat will be needed.
I have installed 300 feet of split rail fence (3 rail), using western red cedar. Would like to use your cedar tone stain to prevent graying. Which would be the best product, 100 or 1500. I live in Prescott AZ, about 5300 ft elevation. The 100 product is legal here.
Use the 100 Series.
I have a 5 gallon container of TWP 1500 series stain that is 5 years old. It has not been opened. Will it still be OK to use? Does stain go bad?
Hard to say if still good as that would depend on how it was stored and if opened. Best to check and stir thoroughly. If it mixes 100% fluid then it should be good. If thick, clumpy, or skinning of the stain has occurred, then it has gone bad.
I have exterior cypress shutters on a pool house that have 1503 dark oak twp stain on them and they have turned gray over the winter again despite the paint store assuring me this would protect them. I live in Louisiana and don’t want to have to continually re-do every year. Any suggestions on which TWP product will ensure more than a years protection against graying? The enterior is all cypress and coated with clear TWP and no graying as it’s not exposed to the weather.
If this is the first time staining on new wood, see this for tips: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
I stained my deck about 18 months with TWP 1500 Rustic. I stripped and brightened before hand with Restore-a-Deck. The color has faded a lot more than I expected for that amount of time, especially in high sun areas. A water test shows that the boards are not beading water. I am ready to stain again and do not want to strip again. Should I have done TWP 100 originally instead? If so, is it ok to stain over 1500 with 100? I live in TN, so VOC laws do not apply.
Time for a maintenance coat. Prep lightly with the Gemini Restore Kit and apply 1 coat of the same TWP 1516 Rustic.
You cannot apply the 100 Series over the 1500 Series.
I’m making an exterior reptile cage from untreated 2X2 pine wood. I’m in Florida and we get daily rain in the summer and strong sun. How often do you recommend I treat the wood with TWP 100?
Every 2 years.
I just ordered 2 – 5 gallon pails of your 100 series (honeytone)…I now notice you do not ship the 100 series to Virginia. Is this correct? I will use for a marine dock. My dock is approx. 10 years old. If it can be shipped to My address, is the 100 series better than the 1500 series for my application?
The TWP 100 Series is allowed in all of VA except for the counties around DC. Stay with the 100 Series.
Is WTP series 100 safe for dock in lake waters. Is this safe per EPA requirements?
Once fully dried and cured it is safe. When applying, you should avoid dripping the stain into the water.
I don’t want a “stain” on my deck, I like the natural wood,so does this product come in clear, (no color).
Yes, but the clear will not provide UV protection from graying. You must have a tinted color if you want UV protection.
Can I mix 1501 and 101 series together (I can’t get enough 1501 cedartone for the job)
That is not suggested. You can order 1500 Series here: https://www.twpstain.com/twp-1500-series
My house in western NJ has 10 year old white cedar siding that was covered with Cabot Bleaching Oil #6241 (driftwood grey). Can I re-coat it using TWP? What prep is recommended?
No. You cannot apply TWP over a different brand of stain. That would have to be removed first. Once removed, you can use the TWP 1500 Series.
What is the difference between TWP 1500 and TWP 1501?
Colors. See this: https://www.twpstain.com/twp-1500-series-stain-colors-and-photo-albums/
We are refinishing hour 22 year old log cabin that was previously done with an semi-transparent oil-based product. We have pressure washed it and are looking for the appropriate product to apply. We have been told we needed to use an oil-based product is yours oil based or is it water-based? Or have you successively put it on a previously oil based log cabin and it held up well
Thank you,
Beverly and John single
You cannot apply the TWP over a different brand. You sill need to strip or remove the previous stain first.
are they oil or water based?
TWP 100, 1500, and 200 Series are oil based.
What semi-transparent product do you suggest over a previous oil-based stain?
You cannot apply TWP over a different brand. The old coating should be removed first.
My contractor wants to use series 200 on my one year old deck. Would I be better off to have him use series 1500? How is your product tested? Do you use natural or accelerated methods? Where do you test your product?
You can use either. Tests are done all the time in both lab and natural environments.
What series should we use on a green treated pine deck? We live in Wisconsin and the deck has never been stained.
See this about new wood: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
After the wait and prep, use the TWP 100 Series.
With my new Western red cedar fence should I only apply one coat of TWP 100 series I’ve read two different things both the wet-on-wet to cope method but also I’ve read to just do one coat I’m pretty sure I’m going to stain the fence unassembled in the garage first
See this: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
I just restored my 18 year old deck and used a brighter, I want to use dark oak, I would like to use the 100 series as it is alittle more transparen if I’m reading the details right, is this the way to go?,thank you
The 100 and the 1500 are both semi-transparent and have the same transparency. You could use either if your state allows both.
Can you apply TWP 1500 to aged hemlock clapboard with a graco 3000 psi airless sprayer
Yes, you can spray the TWP stains.
If given the choice, would you suggest the 100 or 1500? What does low or high voc do for the product?
They both perform the same in our tests. The difference is the number of solvents that evaporate into the ozone and that makes them high or low VOCs.
I have used an Oil based Deckscape Red cedar tone over the years and I am going to strip and and nutralize. I live in MD so I can’t get TWP 100, so is the next best TWP1500?
Yes, that is correct.
I live in soggy Portland, Oregon and had a new cedar fence installed. Should I wait one year to stain it? Should I use the 101 or 1501?
Is the fence wood rough sawn or smooth cut? Depends if you need to weather and prep or stain now. Use the 100 Series.
Smooth cut (somewhat). Not as smooth as decking lumber. Would like to stain now to prevent weathering.
See this about new wood: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
We have a 2 yr old wolmanized wooden deck . Should we use Twp 100 or 1500?
Where do you live?
Is two 100 better than Cabot australian timber oil
Of course.