Applying Thompson's WaterSeal involves proper surface preparation and careful application techniques to ensure lasting protection against water damage and UV rays. For optimal results, follow these steps to seal your outdoor surfaces effectively.
1. Surface Preparation: The Key to Success
Before applying Thompson's WaterSeal, thorough cleaning and preparation of the surface are crucial. This ensures maximum adhesion and a uniform finish.
- Clean the Surface:
- For new wood, allow it to weather naturally for 6-12 months before applying a sealant. This opens the wood grain, allowing better penetration.
- For older or dirty surfaces, use a deck cleaner or wood brightener to remove dirt, mildew, mold, and any previous stains or finishes. Follow the cleaner's instructions carefully, often requiring scrubbing and rinsing.
- Tip: Pressure washing can be effective for cleaning, but use a wide fan tip and keep the wand moving to avoid damaging the wood fibers.
- Repair and Sand:
- Tighten any loose nails or screws.
- Replace any rotten or severely damaged boards.
- For a smoother finish, especially on new wood or after stripping an old finish, light sanding with 80-120 grit sandpaper can help open the pores for better absorption.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the surface extensively with clean water to remove all cleaning solution residue.
- Allow to Dry Completely: This is perhaps the most critical step. The surface must be completely dry before application. This can take 24-48 hours, or even longer depending on humidity and weather conditions. Test for dryness by sprinkling a few drops of water; if they soak in quickly, the surface is ready. If they bead up, it's still too wet or has a lingering finish.
2. Choosing Your Application Method
Thompson's WaterSeal can be applied using various tools, each with its advantages:
- Pump Sprayer: Ideal for large areas like decks or fences, offering quick and even coverage. Ensure the sprayer is clean and in good working order.
- Roller: Best for flat surfaces, providing a uniform coat. Use a roller cover designed for exterior use.
- Brush: Excellent for railings, spindles, tight spaces, and working the product into the wood grain. A good quality synthetic brush is recommended.
3. Applying Thompson's WaterSeal: Step-by-Step
Always check the product label for specific instructions, as formulations can vary. Ensure the temperature is between 50°F and 95°F (10°C and 35°C) and no rain is expected for at least 24-48 hours.
- Stir the Product: Thoroughly stir the Thompson's WaterSeal product before and periodically during application to ensure even distribution of its components.
- Test a Small Area: Before full application, test the product on an inconspicuous area to ensure you like the color and finish.
- Apply Evenly:
- Apply a single, even coat. Thompson's WaterSeal is designed to be a one-coat application for most surfaces. Applying too much can lead to a sticky, shiny film or uneven drying.
- Work in small, manageable areas. This helps keep the leading edge of your application wet. By maintaining a wet edge, you can more easily blend subsequent sections and avoid visible lap marks or streaks when the product dries.
- Ensure the product is worked into the wood thoroughly. Whether using a sprayer, roller, or brush, make sure the sealant penetrates the surface rather than simply sitting on top. For rough or porous surfaces, a brush or roller might be more effective at pushing the product into the grain.
- If using a sprayer, follow with a roller or brush to back-roll or back-brush the product into the surface and catch any drips or puddles.
- Avoid Puddling: Do not allow the product to pool or puddle on the surface. If puddles form, immediately spread them out with a brush or roller before they dry. Puddles can dry as shiny, sticky spots.
- Clean Up: Clean tools immediately with soap and water (for water-based products) or mineral spirits (for oil-based products) as directed on the label.
4. Drying and Curing Time
- Dry to Touch: Surfaces are typically dry to the touch within 2-4 hours, but this can vary based on temperature and humidity.
- Traffic Ready: Allow at least 24-48 hours before subjecting the sealed surface to heavy foot traffic or furniture.
- Full Cure: The product will continue to cure over several days, achieving its full water protection capabilities.
Quick Application Guide
| Step | Description | Key Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Clean Surface | Remove dirt, mildew, old finishes; rinse thoroughly. | Ensure surface is spotless and residue-free. |
| 2. Allow to Dry | Surface must be completely dry before application. | Wait 24-48 hours or until water soaks in. |
| 3. Stir Product | Mix Thompson's WaterSeal thoroughly before and during use. | Ensure even consistency. |
| 4. Apply Evenly (1 Coat) | Work in small sections, maintain a wet edge, avoid puddles. | Spread thoroughly; work into the wood; prevent pooling. |
| 5. Dry & Cure | Allow adequate time for drying before use and full curing. | 24-48 hours for traffic; several days for full cure. |
For more detailed information and product-specific guidelines, always consult the official Thompson's WaterSeal website or the product label.
