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Last Updated on January 30, 2023 by TWP Help
We are here to help you with your TWP exterior deck or wood restoration project for 2024!
TWP is an advanced wood preservative/protectant registered by the EPA. Performance and longevity can vary though depending on the wood type, how the wood is prepped, the age of wood, and how the TWP is applied. We want everyone who has decided to use TWP 100, 1500, or 200 Series to have the best possible results.
TWP Stain Tips and Help
When asking questions please give us some information about your wood restoration project:
- What structure is your wood? Examples would be: Deck, Wood Siding, Fence, etc
- What species is the wood? Examples: Treated Pine, Cedar, Redwood, Ipe, etc
- Is the wood new or older than 1 year?
- Has the wood been stained previously with a different brand? Please specify brand name and type of stain used: Examples: Solid stain, Semi-Transparent Stain, etc.
- Any additional info that would be useful
Once you supply us with the information, we will able to give you advice as to how to prep your wood and any needed instructions for the TWP application.
Please ask your questions in the comment area.
Thanks
HI,
We purchased some unfinished adirondack chairs. We would like to stain them and keep them on our uncovered patio by our firepit. We live in the Houston area. Would your TWP 100 Pro Series stains hold up to the Texas sun and heat? Is there anything special we should do when applying it since they are not treated lumber? They are most likely made of pine. I was wondering if I stained them and then applied spar varnish if that would protect them otherwise.
Thank you for your help. Jeanne
Yes, the TWP 120 will work very well for this. You do have to prep new wood:
https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
You cannot apply a vanish over the TWP stain. Varnishes will peel on outside wood.
If I stain with TWP 1500, will I have to reapply that annually? I have some splinters in the wood in my deck, will the Gemini Clean and Brighten be enough prep or is additional work needed?
Typically TWP needs to be reapplied every 2-3 years. As for prep, that depends on the current condition and if it has been stained previously.
It currently has some cracks and splinters in the wood. The old homeowner never did anything to it so it is about 12 years old. No paint or stains before ever. I bought the Gemini clean and brighten, do you have any recommendation for wood filler?
Wood filler will not work on exterior wood nor will it “stain” to blend with a deck stain like TWP. It will look really bad with white spots showing through the stain.
Cracks are normal for exterior wood. Just leave them as is.
How can I tell when it needs to be reapplied? I am a new homeowner and I have not had to deal with this before.
When it starts to wear thin. Feel free to post some pictures and we can let you know.
Hi, I am in Louisville, Kentucky and applied TWP 100 Pecan in 2017 and it is time to seal the deck again. The deck is shaded by trees most of the day. Does switching to TWP 1500 (not required in KY) gain additional years of service in preventing algae and mildew? Also, I will clean and brighten during prep, can I easily change to a different color (most likely darker)?
No, using the 1500 does not make it last longer. If you want to change colors you should strip and brighten: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Can I use TWP over Perma Seal?
How many square feet does each gallon of 1500 cover when it’s over a perma seal deck?
Can I use TWP over Behr wood stain on my fense?
What do I use for clean up with this oil base TWP?
No, you cannot use TWP over a different stain or sealer.
Perma Seal is not a stain. Their company recommends your product. Are you saying not to use it with their sub surface product?
If it is a sealer that beads water then no, TWP will not work as it is a penetrating stain. If the wood is still porous and the TWP can soak in fully, then yes it will work.
How long can I wait to apply my annual 1500 Dark Walnut stain after cleaning winter algae with the cleaner & brightener ?
Stain within 14 days of prep.
I have TWP stain that’s a year old. It was stored in the garage and now has congeeled like jello. Can I add thinner to it and use it?
No, it has gone bad.
I have a cypress pergola in a west facing setting. 5 years ago it was coated with TWP 120 Pecan to very good results but it’s time to recoat. I’ve been impressed with the ratings of Defy water based stains and user results- it appears that product is almost on part with Oil based TWP these days. Good part is water clean up and can be sprayed easier. My question is; how would I have to prep my pergola before I could transition to water based Defy? Is it even worth it? Thank you.
You would have to strip it. Best to stay with the TWP.
Thanks. How should I prep it for TWP?
https://www.twpstain.com/gemini-s-restore-a-deck-cleaner-and-brightener-kit
Hi,
I bought TWP 1502 5 gallon can about 3 years ago and there are about a gallon left and i would like to use it to touch up some of the area? So i was wondering if i can reuse the old stain? I did a visual inspection, the stain becomes thick, rubbery looks like jello. Anyway to revive the stain with mineral spirit? Please advise.
Thank you in advance
Mike
It has gone bad and cannot be used.
I have cedar sidewall shingles that have not been stained in years. I will be pressure washing and restaining with a cape cod grey which product would you recommend for best results
Look at using the TWP 105 Cape Cod Gray.
https://www.twpstain.com/twp-100-series
Hello, I am building an exterior fence in California, which means I have to use the 1500 series stain. The posts for the fence will be pressure treated douglas fir measuring 4×6; the rest of the fencing will be 2×4, 2×6, and 2×8 rough sawn cedar. The rough sawn will only be on one exposed side (the broadest). All of the 2 inch side exposures will have been planed smooth.
I have read that the rough sawn can have stain applied immediately, but the fact that there are sides that are planed seems to contradict that. What do you recommend?
And what do you recommend for the treated posts?
Thank you!
Yes, you will have to wait to do all the wood since 1/2 is smooth wood: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Same for the posts.
I’m checking around my area for TWP 116 Rustic for my deck and some places are saying they only have Rustic Oak. Was rustic 116 changed to Rustic Oak? Is it the same color?
Rustic and Rustic Oak are the same.
I had 3/4 of a 5 gallon bucket that was properly stored but it has turned to gel. Is there any way I can save it?
Sorry but no, it has gone bad.
Last year I put an application of Defy clear on. It didn’t cover very well. Do I need to strip that off before I put on the TWP product? Also my house is red brick with black mortar. What color of stain would be best to use. Photo attached.
Yes, you have to remove the Defy first. https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Color preference is your choice. You can get samples here: https://www.twpstain.com/stain-samples
I have a large covered deck on my front porch that is 35 + years old. The wood is cedar and is in very good shape. It was last refinished 9 years ago by sanding to bare wood and applying TWP 1500. Today, I have thoroughly cleaned the deck with deck cleaner. The wood is still solid, but surface is blotched in some areas and faded in other, particularly where exposed to sun and rain/moisure. Staining looks inconsistent, and needs refinishing. I would like to apply TWP product again. Several questions:
1. Do I need to re-sand back to bare wood to restore a consistent look, or can I simply apply TWP stain to do this?
2. Which of the TWP stain products should I use? Reapply 1500, or the 100 or 200?
3. Do I need to apply 1 coat Wet on Wet, or 2 coats?
4. How much stain will be needed to cover 1,100 sq ft.?
Thank you.
The application is new cedar shingles in bundles. I am dipping in 5 gallon can of TWP 200 clear. Started the project 12 months ago, stopped for 8 months and resumed dipping today. Problem is the solids are lumpy and I stir can after dipping each shingle and still the solids are dots on shingles. It takes effort to pint brush the solids into the shingle to dissolve on shingle. Can I add mineral spirits to the can to try to dissolve the solids?
No, if an opened container for this long it has probably gone bad.
I’m preparing to treat a new deck for the first time. It’s pressure-treated pine, aged for ~10 months. I have TWP 100 with Gemini restore kit. Should I treat (clean, brighten, and stain, any or all of these steps) all surfaces of the deck, including support joists underneath? Is there an advantage/disadvantage to doing or not doing so? I can access all surfaces relatively easily, but I don’t want to do unnecessary work.
You would only need to do the undersides if you want to for appearance purposes. Otherwise no need.
I have a treated southern yellow pine dock. What is the difference between the 100 series and 1500 series? Which is better for my application?
Where do you live? Is the dock newer or older?
10 years old. Georgia
Use the TWP 100 Series. Make sure to prep correctly first: https://www.twpstain.com/twp-100-series
I live in Wisconsin and have a hardwood deck that is sun exposed approximately 80% of the day. The deck is 25 years old and have been protecting it with the Penofin Brazilian Rosewood Oil for Hardwood ( Transparent Natural Tone ). Does TWP have a product that will provide the same excellent appearance after initial application and also do well on maintaining the initial look with out graying?
Closest in color would be the TWP 115 Honeytone.
https://www.twpstain.com/twp-100-series
For the prep, you would need to use the Restore A Deck Stripper and Brightener Kit:
https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Your wood type does require an annual application but will last longer then Penofin as that will only give you a few months.
Our home has shingle siding, initially we treated the exterior with TWP Cedar Tone 101. The home was cleaned and re stained again with TWP Cedar Tone 101 approximately 6-7 years later. It is now time for a third application of Cedar Tone 101. What product do you suggest I use to prep the shingles prior to the third application of your product. In some covered areas the shingles look perfect including the stain and do not need to be cleaned. Other areas there is some black streaking, I am told the black areas are the wood tenons bleading thru, we want to remove these blacken areas . The previous painted either bleach the shingles or used another product before re-staining with Cedar Tone 101. We are now in the process of selecting a new house painter. I prefer to define the correct process and product for cleaning prior the re-stain of TWP 101. I am seeing some that say use and Oxygen Bleach mixture, also seen recommendations for Qxalic Acid wood bleach. I am aware you have a deck cleaning product as well. I am really just in need of a recommendation of the type of product to use, don’t want to damage the shingles prior to re-stain, thanks .
Please post some pictures.
should I do wet on wet when staining the deck rail and spindles or is just a single coat enough? 13 month old pressure treated pine. should I also plan to clean and brighten the above also? thanks, Mark
Yes, you will need to clean and brighten with the Gemini Restore Kit: https://www.twpstain.com/gemini-s-restore-a-deck-cleaner-and-brightener-kit
You can get by with one coat on the spindles. The top rail should get two wet on wet coats.
thank you, one more question please. I just cleaned and brightened the deck and it seem like some areas absorb more the others. it’s been approx. 13 months should I just do 1 coat just in case and then recoat later as per your instructions ? thanks again. all products have come from you.
Yes, that is correct!
what is the shelf life of an unopened 5 gallon twp 100? stored in a cool temp garage?
Unopened and stored where it cannot freeze, it should be good for a few years.
I live in Michigan and need to sand off old Buhr Deck over. My pressure treated deck is nearly 20 years, what type of TWP would you recommend? I feel solid color would be my best option. Thoughts
Dennis
TWP does not come in a solid color, only Semi-Transparent colors. The TWP 100 Series is your best option once you fully remove the Behr: https://www.twpstain.com/twp-100-series
I have a 25 year old cedar deck that I stained 6 years ago with you stain , I now I need cleaner and brighter what stain would be better for the deck
Thanks Shawn
Prep with the Gemini Restore Kit and apply the same TWO stain as you used last time.
I have the better part of a partially used 5 gallon cedartone stain that has turned to a gel. Is it useable? can I restore it to it’s original condition ?
Sorry but it has gone bad and cannot be used.
I am in Florida and am going to stain a new dock which is 16″ above high water and exposed to usual sunlight and rain and high humidity. I was going to use spruce or fir 1″ X 6″ pressure treated fence board for the decking instead of western cedar. Should I use the 100 Pro or 1500?
See here about new wood: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Use the TWP 100 after the wait and prep.
I’m interested in staining my clear cedar T&G siding this summer. It’s been years since it was last done and I will need to replace some damaged planks. Is there anything I’ll need to do to prep the new planks that will be mixed in with the old on the siding? Also, does TWP make a water-based stain (I’ve seen some sites like twpws but didn’t know if it was legit.
We do not offer the TWP water based stain. As for the new wood, see here for tips: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
I recently ordered stain and RAD. And a few other items. Order # 5RZE084112. I was notified by UPS that the order was canceled. I was wondering why, as I have not received notification from you. Please advise.
Hello,
Your order was not canceled but the first label from UPS was canceled and redone under a different UPS label. An email with the new UPS tracking number was sent as well.
I have a newly installed T&G, white/untreated pine ceiling on my porch. Do I need to clean and brighten? It’s very dry as it has not been exposed to any moisture. It’s already very clean and bright. Using 100 series — one or two coats?
See here about new wood and it will answer all your questions: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
How long and well will 100 series stain keep once the container is open? We’re trying to decide between a 5 gallon bucket with a bit left for next time or about 4 1-gallon buckets. Thanks!
See this: https://twpstainhelp.com/shelf-life-of-twp/
Can you use 1500 on interior beams?
Sure but it is oil-based and will have a strong odor until fully cured.
can i pre stain with Zar stain (has no polyurithane in it) sedona red a piece of western red cedar then apply a clear or lighter colored TWP color over the zar stain to seal and preserve the wood?
I tried the redwood twp 1500 series stain color on the western red cedar and did not think it looked very rich- not like Spanish cedar which I cannot afford for my wood garage door remodel.
No, TWP cannot be applied over a different coating or stain.
What can I use to clean TWP from vinyl siding?
Try a water-based graffiti remover cleaner from your paint sections at your local hardware store.
I just recently stained my deck w/ TWP 100 stain. I let the new pressure treated wood age for about 6 months per your recommendation. I did two coats a few days apart (due to the weather). I ended up w/ some puddling that did not absorb into the wood. Those spots are now thick and sticky. What do you recommend I do?
PS.
The rest of the deck looks awesome.
Hello, new wood directions are one coat and if ever doing tow coats for older wood, it has to be wet on wet, not two days apart.
See here for tips on when you over apply: https://twpstainhelp.com/twp-stain-is-spotty-or-shiny/
I building a backyard pavilion from new green SPF large timbers from a local mill being cut right now. We have 300 days of sunshine here. TWP 100 or 1500, and from previous help it looks like I can stain right away, please confirm. Thanks!
I’m in New Mexico.
You cannot stain new smooth milled wood right away. See here: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Use the TWP 100 Series after the weathering and prep of the wood.
It’s rough sawn from a mill. The note on the page you reference says “New Rough Sawn vertical wood/fencing can be stained right away with no wait and with no prep as it does have mill glaze and is very absorbent.” I’m unclear whether I need to wait or not.
If it is rough sawn you can do right away. You didn’t mention that prior.
Can either the 100 or 1500 be applied with an airless sprayer?
They both can.
I have some reclaimed redwood (2x8s that were ripped down and sanded) that I’m going to use for a deck railing. What color is going to keep the wood looking like it does right now? I’m looking at the TWP100 series and I’m nervous the “redwood” color is going to be too red. What color has the least amount of pigment?
Honeytone has the least amount of pigment. Best to get some samples: https://www.twpstain.com/stain-samples
When applying two coats of stain (TWP1500 in this case), how long should I wait to apply the second coat? The largest of my decks is about 650 SF and will take a 2-3 hours to put down the first coat. I have a second deck about 250 SF and a third deck about 180 SF. Thanks
Hello,
The TWP needs to be applied wet on wet: https://twpstainhelp.com/twp-stain-wet-on-wet-application/
It should take no less than 30-45 minutes to apply the first coat to 650 sq feet with the proper tools.
what are the proper tools? I was going to use a 9″ wide pad. I don’t want to spray – there’s too much overspray. Thanks
You could lightly spray on your first coat. That would take about 10-20 minutes. Just edge out around the house and tarp the outside. Use the pads for the second coat,
If you do not want to spray then the 9″ pad would work. It is like mopping the floor and that would take 45 minutes or less with a 9″ pad. For a faster application, try the 18″ pad: https://www.twpstain.com/speed-mop
Hi,
I want to know, what’s the difference between the TWP 100 Series and the TWP 100 Pro Series?
Thanks
No difference in color or performance, just a label change due to EPA regulations.
1. May I use TWP over siding that was treated with Sherwin Williams semi transparent stain from twenty years ago. I will clean and sand first. 2. does it require a clear coat? 3. Is a wet on wet coating sufficient or is a second coat in a few days preferable?
1. The SW coating must be removed 100% first before using the TWP.
2. You do not top coat TWP with a clear coat.
3. Wet on wet is the proper way if doing two coats.
I hired a contractor to apply TWP101 to my redwood deck which had last been stained with another product about five years ago. I also purchased the stripper and brightener but he chose to power wash instead, saying it would be sufficient. The photos show the end result. The black stains were not there before he stained the areas with TWP. What do you think happened and what needs to be done to correct it? Thanks so much for your help.
The black areas are old stain that he did not remove fully with his pressure washing. You will need to strip it all down to the bard wood and start over to fix this.
What structure is your wood? Examples would be: Deck, Wood Siding, Fence, etc — Wood
What species is the wood? Examples: Treated Pine, Cedar, Redwood, Ipe, etc —- Treated Pine
Is the wood new or older than 1 year? Installed Winter 2016 in Northwest Georgia USA
Has the wood been stained previously with a different brand? Please specify brand name and type of stain used: Examples: Solid stain, Semi-Transparent Stain, etc. Behr Deck Over in August 2017
Any additional info that would be useful: I am looking for the best way to start over since the Deck Over did not work.
See answers above. Your product was highly recommended to me by a friend.
You will have to 100% remove the Behr Deckover and the only way to do that effectively is to power sand it all off. Once removed, use the Gemini Restore Kit for the final prep. Stain with the TWP 100 Series.
I live in New Hampshire and am installing a new mahogany deck on an enclosed unconditioned deck/porch (exposed on the underside, with a roof above and glass/screens on the entire perimeter. Installation is in January, we will likely use it and track mud and snow at times.
I am looking for recommendations regarding: timing (now or in 3 months), pre-staining before installation to protect underside (or not), for new mahogany should I use transparent or semi-transparent and which colors might be best, which series of TWP might be best? Thank you
See here about new wood: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
After the wait and prep, just one coat of the stain. Use the TWP 1500 Series for NH. Try Rustic color.
I built an indoor bench seat from 2×4’s. I have TWP 120 Pecan leftover from my cedar fence. If I use this to stain the bench can I place several polyurethane clear gloss coats (Minwax oil based cleaqr gloss) on after it dries. I want the bench to be very smooth for sitting purposes.
No, you cannot topcoat TWP.
As a follow-up, I have an Adirondack chair made of cedar and freshly stained with one coat of TWP dark oak. The color is exactly what I want so applying a second coat of the same stain would not work. Is there any coating whatsoever (clear sealant, paste wax, etc.) that can be applied to provide more protection to the single coat of stain?
No, you cannot topcoat TWP with any product and if you did, it will end up peeling.
I have been using twp 100 cedertone for several years at home and rental properties. I’m about to stain at my house and was wondering if I could just use another brand of cleaner (behr all in one cleaner) from a clients job?
And what is the overnight low temp requirement?
My contractors sprayed TWP 1500 all over the bottom on my house where it’s near the deck, and all over lots of other stuff (vinyl glass door frames, plastic garden storage boxes, screens, etc..) It’s everywhere. My question is how do I best clean this up?
1. If I want to paint my house, what is the best method to remove it or just get the new water based paint to sick to it,
2. how do I clean it off of screens and plastic boxes,
3. how do I get it off of slate tile….yep, it’s everywhere. 🙁
Thank you so much in advance!
Sorry, but it doesn’t just come off easily nor is there one answer for all your surface types. You can try a graffiti remove cleaner for the plastic, glass, screens, and slate. You can paint over it for your siding.
I am going to have the deck power sanded before staining. do I need to use a prep before applying the stain on my deck?
Yes. Also, be careful of over sanding the wood. 60-80 grit paper only.
Which is better for a longer lasting on deck floor 1500 series or 300. Originally 302 was used then 1500. Thanks for your help. I can’t seem to find 300 series on your site
We do not sell the 300 Series on our site. If you switch to the 1500, you will need to remove the 300 Series. The 300 is not designed for decks. Vertical wood only.
You guys have been a huge help. Thanks
I applied my TWP 1503 stain over 48 hours ago on my porch ceiling and still have shiny spots. I did not wipe any remaining stain after 30 minutes of applying. What can I do now to get rid of the shiny areas? Will it get better on its on as it continues to dry?
See here for tips: https://twpstainhelp.com/twp-stain-is-spotty-or-shiny/
A contractor put on TWP 1500 on new redwood. Pre-staining about a month before installation. A few days after installation it rained and there are black water spots all over the deck board and handrails. They do not wash off with a brush or pressure washer. Can you advise?
FYI that the directions were not followed for new wood. You cannot prestain and it needs to weather for 4-12 months after install and be correctly prepped first: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
You will need to strip it off and start over with this: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
The discoloration looks like tannins trying to leech out of the wood.
Thank you. We live in snow country and winter is almost here. Would you recommend stripping it before the winter or doing it in the spring?
Do it in the Spring. It will be easier.
Is there a chance the spotting gets more “permanent” by waiting or will it not make a difference if we do it in the spring?
It does not make a difference. It will come off in the Spring when you prep.
I have a Tree that Carved. Expensive but a Vets Memorial. I used TWP on it is 3 applications and caulked with cedar color cracks.
Can I use SOLID colors of RED, WHITE and BLUE ? OR,,, should I use paint ???
TWP has been the great choice for us but this is a first to put it in a tree. Tree was ripped down to fresh wood. True professional that won many events. Thanks very, VERY much.
If you want to use a solid color stain or paint you would have to remove the TWP first: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
I have a dock on a lake that I applied 100 series cape cod gray over bare pressure treated yellow pine. this was done 10 years ago. I have done strong pressure washing and estimate that less than half of the TWP remains. What else must I do prior to applying TWP cape cod gray for maintenance.
Strip it done for best results with the new application since it is already half removed: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
About a week ago, we restained our new-ish deck (first stain was in spring after aging appropriately, using cleaner and brightener kit, but it was clear that it didn’t take up enough stain then). Weather last week was in the 60s in the day and 30s (but above freezing) at night, and it hasn’t rained on it yet. Unfortunately, we forgot to go back after staining and wipe up any wet areas, and now large areas of the decking still look wet a week later. Some of those areas can peel just from walking on it now (see picture), but in many areas it takes quite a bit of elbow grease to remove the extra stain. The decking under the wet areas looks beautifully stained. Any tips on getting the extra stain off, now that it’s pretty set? Would a strong hose or careful pressure wash be ok? Any advice would be much appreciated!
See here: https://twpstainhelp.com/twp-stain-is-spotty-or-shiny/
Basically you over-applied. Use lacquer thinner and rags to remove the excess.
How long does 1500 need to dry before it can be walked on? There is a 15 mph wind going acrossed it and 60 degrees.
Now in the 70s and still windy.
About 12-24 hours but that depends on if in shade or sun.