Last Updated on January 30, 2023 by TWP Help
TWP Wood and Deck Stain Update for 2024
Welcome to the official help site for TWPStain.com.
TWP® 100 Pro-Series will keep your wood beautiful, fresh, and looking new longer! The ease of application and maintenance will allow you to enjoy your investment for years to come. Containing unique ingredients that protect the wood from damage, TWP 100 Series has been a leader and respected product for over 25 years.
TWP® 100 Pro-Series provides a broad spectrum of weather protection, is water repellent, and aids in color retention. TWP® 100 Pro-Series resists water absorption that causes warping, cracking, splitting, and prevents freeze damage in colder climates. Use TWP® 100 Pro-Series to Restore and Protect YOUR GREAT OUTDOORS!
TWP 1500 Total Wood Preservative is an EPA-registered wood preservative for decks, fences, gazebos, cedar siding, wood shakes, log homes, outdoor furniture, and other exterior wood surfaces. TWP wood preservative offers outstanding protection from UV fading, wood rot, water damage, and mildew for all types of wood species.
The TWPStainHelp.com site is designed for exterior wood and deck owners looking for solutions to their wood maintenance questions. We have gathered information based on years of experience. From TWP stain tips and wood maintenance advice to prepping new wood and how-to articles, we will guide you step by step to achieve professional-like results using any of the TWP wood preservative products.
Please read our articles and feel free to ask any questions that you may have about restoring your exterior wood or decking surfaces. The information you need regarding wood and deck restoration and TWP deck stains are all here. Please enjoy and remember that we are here to help.
Can I put Spar Urethane over TWP stain?
No. You cannot apply a sealer or coating over the TWP.
This deck has had TWP 1500 stain on it for its life, we purchased more a combo pack from TWP which included stripper, renew and cedar tone 1500 series. So far we’ve stripped and renew as directed, our deck looks decent but I question the black spots as you will notice when wet (as if stained), or does the renew still keep working to brighten deck for 48 hours? If not, is my only choice is to sand it down?
Try the brightener one more time. Apply and do not rinse. Let it dry into the wood. See if that helps.
I have just replaced second floor exterior balcony with treated 2″x6″ #2 pine deck boards. After I stain it with your 1500 series, do I need to seal it? It gets full sun and I live in S. Louisiana. Thanks
You cannot apply a sealer over the TWP. No need.
so no worries about it baking in the sun? UV protection and moisture barrier good enough?
Thanks for quick response.
Yes, that is correct.
I am writing a Fence Standard for our homeowners association and I am putting together a list of suggested stain colors and vendors. Is it possible for me to purchase sample size amounts of your stain? I live in Texas.
On this link: https://www.twpstain.com/stain-samples
My western red cedar deck is 3 years old and has been treated ONLY with TWP 100 series. I have stained it twice given our harsh environment in western Montana (snow shoveling and sun) but regretfully skipped last year and now have hardly any stain left in the most exposed areas. The enclosed picture should give a good idea of it’s current condition. I plan to bleach some color back in to exposed areas but am sincerely hoping I don’t have to strip off the remaining stain. Please advise what you would do. Thank you, Bk
You will need to strip and brighten this. Very easy to do: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Whee! Not what I wanted to hear…
Is there a TWP dealer in or near Seattle?
We are an online dealer for the TWP and can ship directly to you in about 4-5 business days.
Can this be used for exterior wooden entrance doors? I live in Chicago.
Thanks so much, Kathy
TWP is not suggested on entry doors to the home.
does twp 1500 come in a clear formula? I saw it on your site, but there was no description, except no UV protection. would I need UV protection on a covered deck?
Thank you, Chris
Yes, it comes in a Clear. When a coating is “clear” it will not provide UV protection from preventing graying/oxidation. If you want to prevent the graying, then you will need one of the semi-transparent colors.
I live in north texas and I’m building a deck round an above ground pool using untreated pine which of your products would you recommend I use to protect it
See this about new wood: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Use either the 100 or 1500 Series.
Can TWP1500 be custom colored? My wife wants “kind of green, kind of brown, kind of gray”. Thanks
Sorry but no, the TWP stains can not be custom mixed.
I have 2 wood garage doors and a double front door that need refinishing however I live in Florida with the relentless sun. I have been researching types of finishes to use when I came across your product. Would it be a good product for this application and can I put a spar varnish top coat? It is a lot of work and ideally I would like to use a sprayer but I can also use a roller and brush.
I would really appreciate an honest opinion.
Thank you
You cannot top coat the TWP with a spar varnish otherwise it works great for garage doors as long as you remove all previous coatings first.
What is the best way to stain a spruce tongue and groove ceiling? I have TWP samples in 1503, 1501, and 1500. I have tried each on the spruce boards and very little stain penetrates. I would like to keep the ceiling light but just take away some of the blonde new board appearance. Also, my contractor wants to pre-stain the boards before installing. What is your recommendation on how to get the stain into the wood? Note: the sample tongue and groove spruce is aged but still seems to retain that waxy new wood look.
I plan on using the 1503 either full strength or cut with 1500 on the rough sawn cedar of this project but want to avoid getting an orangey red tint. I did a 1:1 ratio of 1503 to 1500 which lightened it. Is there any problem using different ratios to get the desired color?
See this about new wood: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
New “smooth” wood cannot be prestained with TWP as it will not soak into the wood correctly. It will be fine for the rough sawn cut. No need to prep, just one coat.
My deck was stained with TWP Honeytone last Spring. I recently cleaned the deck with soap and water; however, there are still some darker mildew like stains in the deck that will not come up. Can you make a suggestion on how to remove these stains? Thanks!
You cannot use anything too aggressive as it may remove the finish. Try “Wet and Forget” and see if that will remove the mildew spots.
I am trying to figure out the best way to stain and finish my new unfinished mahogany front door in as few steps as possible, while also protecting this south facing door in Austin, TX. I saw a description of the TWP 1500 and was wondering if this would be a good product and the only one needed to stain and protect my door?
Hello, TWP is not suggested for Mahogany front doors.
Just completed milling 350 sq. ft. white cedar Tongue &groove.The wood sat outside this past year but no sign of graying remaining bright white.I take it a light sanding prior to applying TWP 1500 Rustic is not necessary.Is it necessary to use the KIT.?
Yes, you need the kit to remove the mill glaze and open the pores.
We are planning to build a deck and have purchased KDAT Southern Pine lumber which has been stacked in a bundle in our garage since September 1, 2018. Our garage is not climate controlled, and temperatures can and have reached 100 degrees during this storage period. We are ready to begin, but are struggling with the best way to proceed with this project.
We are considering using the Restore a Deck Kit to clean and brighten, and then stain the individual deck boards prior to installation versus constructing the deck and then cleaning, brightening, and staining. Obviously, the latter would be the easiest, but would like you to address some questions we have:
1. Since the KDAT boards have been stacked in the garage for several months, can that time be considered part of the “seasoning/weathering” time, or is it crucial that the wood be exposed to the outdoor elements (UV)?
2. We live in Louisiana (high humidity; high temps with frequent rain!) If “seasoning/weathering” in the elements is required, and mildew develops, does the Restore a Deck Cleaner kill the mildew? If not, what process would be required to address a mildew issue?
3. We plan to use TWP 100 Cape Cod Gray stain, and would like to know if the stain will cover the ink production stamps placed by the lumber mill, and if not, how they should be removed?
Please give us your thoughts…… Thanks, Don
Hello,
1. No, it has to season and be prepped after install. See this for tips on KDAT: https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/
2. Yes, it will help to remove the mildew.
3. No, it will not cover or mask the ink stamps. Those should be sanded off immediately after installing of the wood, prior to the natural weathering.
Thanks for your response! One more question regarding the sanding of the mill stamps….what grit sandpaper do you recommend?
60-80 grit.
I live in Oklahoma and have a new cedar fence that is four months old. Going into the winter months and trying to figure out if I should order the 100 or 1500 series. There are a lot of options out there with Cabot, Olympic, Wood Defender. It is a bit overwhelming and want to get this right from the start.
Use the TWP 100 Series for this fence in OK.
My total square footage for both side of the fence is 1,932. would two – 5 gallon units be enough for proper coverage when I go to purchase this from your on-line store?
No. Is the wood rough sawn cut or smooth cut? Make sure to prep as well.
It is smooth cut. Please let me know on the prep as well.
See this about new wood and prep: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
You will need to prep and just 1 coat of the stain. You will need about 12-15 gallons for the 1 coat. This, of course, varies on application method, wood type, and porosity of the wood.
I have the dark oak 1500 series but it is to dark for what we want.. can i thin it to make it lighter?
You cannot thin it but you can add the TWP 1500 Clear into it to lighten the color.
In stalled a deck in June with new treated lumber. How soon should it be treated ?
See this: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
How soon should new wood be preserved?
See this article: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Do you carry the twp ceader tone 101
Yes. See this link: https://www.twpstain.com/twp-100-series
I need to seal/stain my deck soon–was planning to do it this afternoon–it is to be a high of 60 and I’ll have a few hours 2PM to 7PM when it will be above 55–but then the temp drops off into the 40’s and then into the mid 30-s late tonight–very early tomorrow morning. It is to then get back to 60 tomorrow etc etc
Am I okay to seal today? OR should I wait for warmer weather (which is predicted a week from now–though not that much warmer than now)
thanks
AS long as it does not drop below freezing or rains tonight, you should be okay to stain today.
I am going to stain the deck with TWP 100. To cut down on future work can I just restain every other year without stripping and just clean
No, as over-application through the years can result in the stain not soaking in. This creates issues with proper curing and or failing prematurely.
FYI, it is as easy or easier to strip/brighten vs clean/brightener.
Im planning to use TWP 100 on exterior wood doors and table in direct sun light.
Should I apply a wood sealer after the stain dries? If so what is a compatible wood sealer for twp 100
You cannot apply a sealer on top of the TWP. No need.
I purchased TWp stain a while back and it is holding up well on my deck. Now, I would like to stain outdoor furniture with a semi-solid stain (blue or green tint). I know you do not sell semi-solids but could you make a recommendation for an exterior stain that will hold up well to the elements?
Thanks!!
Sorry, but we are not familiar with any quality semi-solid green or blue colored stains.
I have a question regarding using the stripper from your website on my shed. We wet the shed and deluted it as said and put it on waited about 10 minutes and then rinsed it off. We then put the Brightener diluted as said on there. The wood looks as though it is still trying to peel up the old finish. What to do? I had previously washed it with Clorox water and rinsed it and had waited several weeks. I wanted to make sure the old finish was off so I used your products. Did I not leave the stripper on long enough? Thanks so much for your quick response.
You have to pressure wash off the stripper, not rinse it. Feel free to post a picture as well.
Thank you
Re-stained our cedar deck a few weeks ago. Just noticed that the TWP stain from railings has dripped onto black aluminum balusters–the drips become visible when the sun hits the railing. Tried cleaning the balusters with mineral spirits, but the drips don’t come off–they disappear when wet with mineral spirits, but re-appear immediately upon drying. What can we do?
Try a water-based graffiti remover from your local paint store.
Thank you! Will try and report back on the results!
I applied 1500 series (clear) on my mahogany deck last year – it is covered – but some areas have been bleached by the sun. Pictures are attached – just your thoughts on if I can go another year without reapplying – or if I should reapply – I guess you suggest cleaning with the Gemini kit then putting on the stain – do I put one coat of stain on or do the wet on wet again? thanks
Looks good to wait until Spring of 2019. Prep with Gemini Kit.Two light coats.
I used the Restore a Deck kit, on my 4 year old never been stained cedar deck. Waited the 48 hours to dry and stained with TWP 100 in the color Pecan. I hate the color, it is too orange! Now what do I do?
To switch colors you would have to strip and brighten with this: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
What do I have to do if I switch brands? I don’t see a color I’m looking for in TWP.
Same thing as the previous post.
In late July, we used your 350 Max Voc (after cleaning and brightening) on our pressure treated pine deck. Didn’t have enough for 2 coats.
1) Can we apply another coat this fall?
2) Which of your new formulas should we order?
Which series did you use before? The 1500? If so use the same but do this light prep and stain in the Spring.
I have cedar railing around my house in Maryland as well as cedar post for our mailbox. The builder used Helmsman spar urethaneon all the cedar. It has quickly deteriorated in the sun.
I plan on using TWP1500 Honeytone. What is the best method to remove the old stain? Do I sand and then use cleaner/stripper or just use the stripper/brightener?
Thanks for the assistance.
Regards,
Chris
Sand it off then clean and brighten for final prep.
Price per 5 gl 100
On this link: https://www.twpstain.com/twp-100-series
i have 5 gallons twp 1500 8 years old is it still good
Hard to say. Open it up and make sure there is not any clumping or skinning on the surface. Make sure it mixes 100% smooth. If it cannot and has the large clumps, then it has gone bad.
I have holes in deck boards from broken deck screws and had to screw new ones right next to the broken ones. What kind of caulk or filler should/can I use to fill the holes? Do I need to fill holes? Should I do this before or after brightening (using Restore) before I stain. I am planning to use TWP 1500 in dark oak. Thanks.
Caulk or wood filler will not work on exterior wood and will not blend with the stain. Do not use it. It will look really bad and not last.
I’m interested in your 100 series Cape Cod Gray, but notice that you say it is more similar to a semi solid stain. Does that mean less penetration and eventual peeling vs. other colors?
It is still penetrating but less transparent.
Have two 2X6 deck boards that have bled and discolored on my 45X20 deck. Deck is 5 years old and was stripped/brightened with Restore-a-Deck this past May and stained with TWP 100 Cedar.
I thought I had overcome the bleeding with the complete re-finish, but you’ll see in attached pic that it’s baaaaack.
What can I do short of replacing the two boards……or is replacing the easiest way to go?
There is not a way to stop this internal bleeding/discoloration. Probably need to replace.
I work for a home builder and we use twp for the decks. I have a homeowner that the stain seems to be coming off for no apparent reason. I was wondering if you have ever heard of this problem or know what would cause it?
It would be improper prep and/or over application that would cause the TWP to not be able to soak into the wood correctly. If this happens, you can have it dry on top of the wood instead of in the wood, creating this potential issue.
Thank you for your prompt response. Would it be best just to use your suggested cleaner to clean the excess and should it be restained?
No. You would need to strip and start over. Was this wood new?
Thank you for the prompt response. How would you suggest cleaning now and would it need to be restained?
David, we already responded to this. No. You would need to strip and start over. https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Yes it will have to be restained.
Was this wood new?
What prep do I need to switch from 1500 to 100?
You would need to use this prep kit: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
I have used this before (1500 series) on my porch railings, and love the product. I have some chairs with unfinished teak arms that are starting to mildew and blacken, and wonder if this is suitable to use on those, or if a specialist teak sealer is a better bet? Any guidance, if I use it, on the best color to select?
Any color would work for the Teak. Many use the Rustic for a deep reddish brown color. Just one coat for the teak wood.
I have and 10 yr old deck I power sanded with a commercial floor sander all the old stain off. it look like new dry sanded wood do I need to clean and brighten, or can I just apply the TWP 1500.
Clean and brighten with the Gemini Restore A Deck Kit for your prep after the sanding.
Have been doing research on deck staining and or sealing there is a lot of products out there that claim all,I have a boat dock that is 2.5 years old and was built with pressure treated lumber it has never been stained or sealed and now is the time the dock is in Houston Texas fresh water lake high heat and humidity could you advise what TPS products to use.tks Ron
Prep with the Gemini Restore Kit and stain with the TWP 100 Series:
https://www.twpstain.com/twp-100-series
The dock was built about 2.5 years ago with pressure treated wood
I have a dock shill with pressure treated lumber that is now about 2.5 years old has never been stained or sealed what TPS products would you recmend.The dock is in Houston Texas need I say more hot and humid thanks Ron
The more I read the more confused I get. I am installing new rough sawn western red cedar porch supports with side braces and planking for a box beam.I am in the process of sanding the hairs off of the wood (the wood is still fairly rough) and need to know if I can stain with TWP 1500 now before I install them or wait until next spring to stain. Please advise on the appropriate time to stain. I have read that cedar is not meant to be left natural with no protection for any length of time outdoors. Any other advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
If rough sawn wood and dry, you can stain right away: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
the stain still smells really bad after five days of drying, and it also still feels oily to the touch. What can we do about this ?
This happens when there is over application of the stain. Try to speed this up by removing some of the excess stain. Use rags and mineral spirit to remove the excess stain that is on top of the wood and not drying.
Very Important!: Take all oily rags and saturate them in water when done. Lay flat to dry outside and away from the house, garage, etc.
Going to use Cedartone 101 on a 10 month old new cedar fence. I bought 5 gallons, plus the “Bug Juice”.
I am here in the “sunny” Pacific Northwest, where it eains from October 1 to May 31 each year.
Do you recommend a mildewcide / fungicide additive? Which one? THe two big local paint companies out here (Miller; Rodda) won’yt warranty their exterior oil based paints unless one has added mildewcide / fungicide.
TWP already contains an EPA registered mildewcide.
Thank you for the prompt resonse, and the welcome news that I don’t need an additive.
Thanks again/
I am really pleased with the stain. I’ve used every type on the market, Thompson’s, Behr, Wolman’s, Olympic, etc. My deck is 20 years old. The color is beautiful, I used honey, and after a year and a half it still looks great. My question is can I power wash it, just to clean off the surface dirt without hurting the finish? Also, how often should I reapply?
Thanks for your help.
When reapplying every 2-3 years, prep with the Gemini Restore Kit. If you are just cleaning to remove dirt, etc, use water with a little bit of dish soap so you do not harm the finish.
We have a gallon of TWP 1500 remaining from a 5 gallon can used in a project 4 years ago. It was put in a new clean can and sealed. Is this still useable?
Hard to say until you open it up. If any skinning or clumping, then it has gone bad.
Just finished staining new, weathered 1 yr, cedar deck with 101 Cedartone. About an hour after finishing an unexpected 1/2″ rainfall popped up. Is all my work ruined?
See this for tips: https://twpstainhelp.com/it-rained-on-my-twp-how-to-fix/
I am in Canada and bought 8 cans of the TWP 100 – cape cod. Absolutely best stain I have ever used. Wife would like it more gray and less “cape code blue”. Her words. What are my options – I do not want to affect the performance of the stain. Thanks – Jay
Hello,
Sorry, but it is not possible to tint or change the color.