[Cossack]

First I used the Behr stripper and brightener with a lot of brushing etc but the deck still has some dark staining on it. How perfect does the surface have to be before I use the stain? Can I put something like Thompson water proof over the stain to extend it? I really do not want to do all that work again for a long time, and this deck is huge.

 

[Just Bill]

Transparent or semitransparent stains do not protect for long, 2-3 yrs, and Thompson is the worst of the lot. Solid stains last longer and will cover most imperfections. Wood is not a perfect thing, if you want perfect looking material, use synthetics, composites.

 

[Ron6519]

The stain acceptance factor is up to you, it's your deck. Removing the offending wood might be the alternative you're looking for. You want to pick a deck stain that has a UV block and a sealer built into the product. Check out Consumer Reports for the best stains to use.
Ron

 

[4ThGeneration]

First I used the Behr stripper and brightener with a lot of brushing etc but the deck still has some dark staining on it. How perfect does the surface have to be before I use the stain? Can I put something like Thompson water proof over the stain to extend it? I really do not want to do all that work again for a long time, and this deck is huge.

Even with quality materials the deck may get 2-3 years tops of life out of the cycle. With the method you have chosen you may get 6 months.

You can get the same results by mixing up a batch of parafin wax and mineral spirits for protection. As far as the Behr junk....you can find better products.

Check out thesealerstore or Tom Voguls Shop

You will find quality strippers to remove what you have, pH balancers and Stains by Armstrong-Clark or Ready Seal

 

[NAV]

i agree, you are going to have to do the deck every 2 - 3 years.

you know the deck is ready to take stain when you sprinkle water on it and it does not bead up. If the water absorbs into the wood you can stain.

Make sure you read all of the instructions on the strippers and brighteners you use. you dont want to leave contaminants on the wood that will affect the performance of the sealer.

I'm not a fan of Behr or Thompsons. for a homeowner I would recommend CWF, TWP, or Cabot.

 

[Justabottle]

The longest I've seen a transparent coating last is 5 years and that is with Sikkens SRD. The Cabot Alkyd Decking stain will last 3-5 as will the Wolman Durastain.

Thompson's and Behr will give you 6 months to a year.