Best deck stain / sealer to protect treated pine from outdoors?

[PatDIY_Dad]

Hi

Can anyone suggest the best outdoor stain or sealer for h3 treated pine decking and one that is safe for kids to play on

The deck will be always outside in the weather

Prefer to keep the natural pine look

We have a weathered cubby house thats got fence palings as weather boards which have gone that pine greyish colour so if it goes slighly to that colour that would be ok to

[EricL]

Hi @PatDIY_Dad 

For your H3 treated pine decking, an excellent option for sealing and protecting the wood while keeping a natural appearance is a clear or semi-transparent decking oil or sealer. From the store, products like Cabot's Aquadeck Natural or Feast Watson Decking Oil in Natural would suit your needs well. These products are designed to penetrate the wood, offering long-lasting protection from weather exposure while enhancing the timber’s natural look.

Given that kids will be playing on the deck, it's important to choose a water-based, low-VOC product, as these are safer and more environmentally friendly. Cabot's Aquadeck is a particularly good choice in this regard, as it’s durable, water-based, and easy to reapply when needed.

To prepare your deck for staining or sealing, make sure the timber is clean and free from dirt, grease, or mildew. If the deck has been exposed to the weather for some time and has taken on a greyish hue, you can use a wood cleaner or rejuvenator, such as Cabot's Deck Clean, to restore the timber's natural color before applying the sealer.

Once cleaned and dried, apply your chosen stain or sealer using a quality decking applicator, brush, or roller, following the product instructions. Multiple thin coats generally work better than a single heavy one to ensure even coverage and absorption.

For the cubby house, the same product can be used to seal and protect the weathered boards, preserving their slightly greyish tone while offering protection from the elements. Regular maintenance, such as reapplying the stain or sealer every couple of years, will keep your deck and cubby house looking great and protected for years to come.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric