Which TWP Stain Should I Use?
TWP stands for Total Wood Preservative. It has been around for over 20 years and has been a leader in the wood staining industry. TWP Exterior Wood Stain is an EPA registered wood preservative. Unlike other stains that cover up wood and form a protective film that is venerable to peeling and flaking, TWP stains are a penetrating oil formula that offers excellent protection. Knowing which TWP formula is best for your exterior wood project is the key to having excellent results.
TWP 100 Series – The 100 Series has been a leading and respected formula for over 25 years. It penetrates and enhances natural wood beauty and is available is 6 different colors. It is used for all types of exterior wood decking, siding, fencing, and hardwoods. It is not prone to mold or mildew. The 100 Series is not compliant in all states. Please be sure to check if it is compliant in your area.
TWP 200 Series – Available in 8 different colors, the 200 Series formula is best used on wood siding, shakes, and shingles. It uses a non-drying paraffin oil formula that enhances the wood cell’s structural stability making it an excellent choice for older wood that has lost its natural oils. It sheds and repels water and prolongs UV fading. The TWP 200 Series is compliant in all 50 states.
TWP 500 Series – The TWP 500 Series formula has been discontinued and replaced with a new and improved formula called TWP 1500.
TWP 1500 Series – The new 1500 series replaces the old 500 series. This newly formulated preservative penetrates better, dries faster, and outperforms it predecessor. TWP 1500 is a low VOC preservative with unique absorbing pigments that prevent wood graying, fading and premature discoloring. Selected mildewcides prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Available in 9 different colors, TWP 1500 Series Stain is best used on all types of wood fencing, decking, siding, log homes and roofing. It is compliant in all 50 states due to its low 250 VOC formula.
Choose the TWP Series Stain that best fits your needs and give your wood surfaces the protection and lasting beauty they deserve.
Need More Help? Please Ask Below!
What would happen if it rains on my deck after staining with twp 100 pecan
That would depend on who long after you applied and it rained.
Is the TWP 1500 series a good application in Northern Ohio due to the expansion and contracting element of wood in winter and summer
Yes, works great for Ohio.
We applied two coats, and our deck is still ‘tacky’ after 4 days. What do we do?
See here for tips: https://www.twpstainhelp.com/twp-stain-is-spotty-or-shiny/
What removes the TWP 100 stain? I had a contractor use the stain and he didn’t stir so it came out too dark and thick.
https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
I have a 12 month old cedar deck in North East Wisconsin that has not been treated with anything yet. Can I use 100 series “clear” knowing that it will gray (correct if I am wrong) and in a year or two go with a “natural” or “cedar” tone if I want to do so?
If you did this you would have to strip off the Clear when you recoat with a tinted color. https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
If I go with “clear” and it grays over time can I just put another coat of “clear” on the grey wood without doing anything that would remove the grey? Thanks.
You always have to prep when reapplying. If you are using the same color as before, then use this kit for prep while pressure washing: https://www.twpstain.com/gemini-s-restore-a-deck-cleaner-and-brightener-kit
Another question: I cleaned my cedar deck with a product containing bleach and deck is now no longer grey, but now rather bleached (not what the big box store said would happen as I wanted to keep the grey). Some boards are the natural color and I think because I put two layers of the product on those sections (see photos). I did use plain water and a stiff brush to remove loose hair-like wood fibers, but some remain. At this point is it necessary to:
1. use a brighter product…the TWP 100 can did not say to do so on new (12 month old wood).
2. get the boards the same color and if so how? or will the TWP 100 clear stain even things out
Thanks in advance.
At this point, you need to remove all the oxidation to even it out. Use this kit while pressure washing: https://www.twpstain.com/gemini-s-restore-a-deck-cleaner-and-brightener-kit
power wash cedar? at what setting?
And will just a stiff brush work? or is power washing way better?
You can power wash cedar when using the proper prep materials as we suggested. Just back away from the wood with your tip and wash at about 8-10 inches away to remove the oxidation. Stiff brush will probably not get it all off.
Followed your advice by using the product and used a garden hose and stiff brush getting great results. Plan to apply TWP 100 clear today. Thinking it will only take one thin coat as the wood is 12 month old cedar. How long must it dry before we can walk on it.
Thanks very much for your help.
24 hours for foot traffic.
I’m going to be installing new cedar decking. The wood I’m using is KD so the moisture level is low. Do I still have to wait a period of time before staining? In the past I’ve always liked to pre-stain the wood before installation being able to coat all 4 surfaces. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.
Yes, you have to wait and prep: https://www.twpstainhelp.com/kdat-and-twp-wait-period-for-new-wood/
Do not pre stain and do not stain all sides, only the exposed side after install. You need the wood to breathe, not be 100% sealed.
I have a weathershield cedar-toned wood deck. Which color would match the best? I don’t want it to turn out yellow or orange.
Post pictures.
I live in South Florida, about 7 miles from the ocean. I have a new cypress tongue and groove ceiling and a pergola that I will be installing. The ceiling will not be subject to much direct sunlight exposure, but the pergola will be. Should I use the same product for both locations, and would you recommend 100 or 1500?
Use the 100 Series for both. See here about new wood: https://www.twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
we have a new pine deck that has never been stained. We like the natural look and are only staining for protecting the wood. Would you recommend the 100 or 1500 series. Also, is it necessary to stain the deck underside? We live in eastern Tennessee.
See this about new wood: https://www.twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Use the TWP 100 Series.
What colors dose TWP 1500 come in. Is this good for Cyprus wood lawn furniture?
You can see the colors on the order pages: https://www.twpstain.com/twp-1500-series
You can use it on wood furniture.
I am building a porch railing from Architectural Knotty Cedar in Western, PA. It’s a covered porch, so it gets partial sunlight.
1. Am I right to choose TWP 1500 (probably cedar color for UV protection)
2. I am going to ask if it was kiln dried. If it wasn’t, should I wait 4+ months even though the cedar will gray?
3. Does new cedar need prepped?
Thanks
1. You need the 1500 for PA.
2. You have to weather and prep no matter what.
3. Yes: https://www.twpstain.com/gemini-s-restore-a-deck-cleaner-and-brightener-kit
I have a house located in Long Beach WA which is close to the beach. It is exposed to salt air and driving rain quite often. The new cedar shake siding and deck will be approaching a year old. What semi-transparent strain would be recommendationed for the location?
The TWP 100 Series.
I have a 3 yr old deck around a pool, in western pa, lake erie region. What stain would you recommend?
The TWP 1500 series
I live in northeast OH. Would you recommend 100 or 1500 Series for cedar log railing and treated lumber decks? Decks previously stained with semi transparent Sikkens product 3 years ago?
For Ohio you need the TWP 1500. Make sure to remove the Sikkens first.
Thank you!
I put 1 coat on yesterday and didn’t wipe off excess and it’s still wet 12 hrs later I have the wood in the sun today will it dry or should I apply another coat and wipe off excess?
Just let it dry. Do not add more.
Thank You
How many coats and what product would you recommend on a 6 month old deck made of pressure treated pine ?
See here about new wood: https://www.twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
As for which series, that depends on where you live?
I live in Western PA
You would need the TWP 1500.
Live in Marin county in northern California and we are re-staining a year old deck. Was originally stained with Thompsons water seal and it looks bad after 1 year (My contractors choice unfortunately). It’s a redwood deck that gets sun from 1pm on. Looking to stain with the TWP 100 redwood semi transaparent. Question is do we need to strip and brighten? Also would you recommend 1500 instead of 100? Thanks in advance.
Strip and brighten and use the TWP 1500 for CA.
I read the two descriptions of TWP 100 series and TWP 1500 series. With that being said with one is the easiest one to work with? We live in Michigan and our deck gets blasted by the afternoon sun. Thank you for your opinion.
They apply and last the same. Most use the TWP 100 in MI.
Just curious, why TWP 100 in Michigan versus TWP 1500. I’m in the process of purchasing stain for my deck, fencing and covered porch in Michigan. All 10+ years old
TWP 100 is VOC compliant for MI and is what has been used therefor 30 years. You can use the 1500 if you would like but there would not be an advantage.
brand new construction – pine bevel siding… lots of sun, wind, rain exposure.
upstate NY
which series do you recommend.
Also trying to make new pine bevel siding match with some existing cedar bevel siding… i know its almost impossible, but what do you think is best
Cedartone on pine, and then natural on cedar?
Thanks
Also, can this stain be used on a knotty alder door? Thanks
See here about new wood: https://www.twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Best to test samples for your wood types: https://www.twpstain.com/stain-samples
I have a Big Green Egg table made from cypress that has never been treated. It has some mildew spots and has been in my garage for the past 3 years. It’s time to treat it and put on the back porch. Which TWP series is best and why? Thanks.
That depends on where you live?
I live in west TN
Use the TWP 100 Series for this.
Which stain would be best for an outside tongue & groove ceiling and will I need to sand the wood before staining and should I stain both sides?
If new wood then clean and brighten for prep and apply one coat. No need to sand. Only stain the exposed wood.
There is mold on boards so without retreating they are good for another 25 t0 30 years. Putting composite deck on top
A sealer will not prevent mildew or mold not would it last for 25-30 years. Best to just clean this off prior.
I have a deck i am replacing that is 15 yrs old that was treated what would you use on frame to restore frame for new composite deck provide boards are still sound ?
You do not need to prep or stain framing. Just leave as is.
I have a tigerwood deck that is about 400 sq ft and live in Washington state. I have used the twp 100 1502 about 3 years ago. I want to restain it, which stain would you recommend and should i use a cleaner/brigtner?
Use this for prep: https://www.twpstain.com/gemini-s-restore-a-deck-cleaner-and-brightener-kit
Use the same stain as prior.
And if 100 would it be the 100 Series or the 100 Pro-Series. Thanks again.
We have a one year old cedar deck around our pool. We plan to seal it in June. It gets good sun until around 3 p.m. then it starts to get shade. Should we go with the 100 or 1500 and what would be the reason? Thank you
Where do you live?
St. Louis, Mo. Pretty high humidity in the summer.
Use the 100 Series.
We live in NE Florida. Our 4 month old PT deck sits on the south side of the house, so it will get intense summer sun. Should we use TWP 100 or TWP 1500? How long should we wait before we stain the deck? Thanks.
Use the 100 Series. See here about new wood: https://www.twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
I have cedar vertical siding that is 34 years old. It has been restrained every 9 years with Cabot semi solid -mission brown. I have washed the house and removed the black mold- which of your products would you recommend and a color.
I live in NYS
You will have to remove all the Cabot 100% first before using the TWP stains. Did you do this?
We put up a privacy fence about 4 weeks ago. Trying to do my homework on stains. I am considering the TWP 1500 in Natural to keep the appearance of the wood. Would that be your recommendation?
Natural is tinted and will enhance the appearance: https://www.twpstain.com/twp-1500-series-stain-colors-and-photo-albums/
So you think 1500 is the right choice?
Hello, staining a 10 year old deck that is in good condition and been cleaned and prepped properly. Half of the deck is almost always shaded, and the other half gets about 5 hrs of sun. Probably going with honeytone. I’m in Ga. Would the 100 or 1500 be my best choice?
Use the TWP 100 Series.
Hi, We have a one year old pergola built out of white cedar. We sealed with Cabot’s Exterior clear sealer last spring because we wanted to keep the natural color of the cedar. The color has faded to an almost pale yellow and some boards whiter. We do not want it to gray or mildew. What should stain would you recommend? It gets full sun! We need to seal again ASAP!
You will have to remove the Cabot. Use this: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Then stain with the TWP 1500.
Planning on staining a deck in central Texas. Deck will be in afternoon sun starting with steps about 2pm and full sun by 4-5pm. Had mold that I power washed off twice underneath on runners where deck boards crossed. Deck, railings, steps all power washed twice. Plan to stain underneath as well to prevent mold. Plan to use TWP 1500 oil stain. How does the new TWP water based stain compare to TWP 1500?
Thanks for your help.
TWP 1500 is the best option for this deck.
I was planning to use your product on a 3300 sq ft barn floor recently installed
with treated pine. Sun exposure will be minimal except through barn’s side slits between boards. There is some moisture and snow that comes in the same way. There are birds & bats that soil the floor on an ongoing basis.
While the barn is enclosed, it is unheated
and has some air ventilation from slits between side boards. You had advised using TWP 1500. I tried to order it online
and was told it was too toxic for indoor use and should only be used outside. Your thoughts?
TWP is not toxic, but it does have a strong odor that can linger if used inside. You can use it in the barn but air it out until the odor dissipates. It could take a week.
We just ordered the TWP-100. Getting ready to stain here soon. Does this stain have a sealer built in?
Yes.
I used TWP102 on a new dock 4 years ago after waiting 6 months for the wood to age. Should I stick with 100 series or go with 1500 and can I use a lighter color over the redwood?
are both the 100 and 1500 series stain and sealer in one? I live in Missouri and will be using it on new wood on the ceiling over over my deck and covered patio and want to which series will last longer and the approximate length of time it will last.
Yes. They both last the same. About 2-3 years on a deck.
What stain should I use on 1 year old pressure treat wood deck has not been stained ? Live in Ky
Prep with this: https://www.twpstain.com/gemini-s-restore-a-deck-cleaner-and-brightener-kit
Stain with the TWP 100 Series.
I live in Lincolnwood IL (Chicago Area) and will be Cleaning and Sealing my Cedar Deck that is 2 years old. Should I use the 100 or 1500 Series? Also, can you provide me with some Retailers in my Area?
Use the TWP 1500 for IL. We sell online from our website as a TWP dealer.
I live on Eastern Long Island in NY. I have a cedar 20 year old cedar deck that I am re-finishing (strip, power wash, sand). Having researched quite a bit, would you recommend the TWP 100 or 1500 series and what are the differences them both?
You will need the TWP 1500 for NY. You are not allowed to use the TWP 100 based on your state’s VOC laws.
Exterior picture
We are building a new house and have large outdoor cypress posts and beams and cypress porch ceiling? Can I use TWP 1500 to stain and seal all of these? Can it be applied with a sprayer?
See here about new wood: https://www.twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Yes, you can spray but you will need to back brush for a uniform appearance.
I am staining a fence. I have used 100 series in the past. But wondering which is better for a fence, 100 or 1500 series?
Stick with the 100 Series.
We’re adding a smooth redwood pergola to our deck. What product do you recommend
See here about new wood: https://www.twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
Use the TWP 1500 after wait and prep.
We are about to re-do our Deck and we haven’t cleaned it yet. I’m 90% certain we used TWP100 previously.(a contractor handled it) It weathered so incredibly well that its been 8-9 years since, (snow & 100+ temps)yet its still in pretty good condition. My question is: where the railing posts are in good condition, can they just be recoated after cleaning and scrubbing?100 over 100? I expect needing to sand the deck and top railing as the product has ‘worn through’ on walkway and been chipped by hail on the rail. I was hoping to avoid sanding the whole project.
For the prep you should strip and brighten all: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Can I apply redwood color TWP 1500 over Navajo red latex painted cedar or pine?
No.
Staining some 40 yr old redwood some 8 year old..use twp 100 or 1500..live in reno, nv..want to see reall redwood color and grains..should i sand?
Depends on the current condition and if there is already a stain on the wood or not? Pictures would help.
I am going to use your product on a 3300 sq ft barn floor recently installed
with treated pine. Sun exposure will be minimal except through
barn’s side slits between boards. There is some moisture
and snow that comes in the same way. There are birds & bats
that soil the floor on an ongoing basis. Need a TWP product that
dries fast, cleans up well, and lasts a long time. Which is better
for this project, TWP 100 or 1500?
Use the TWP 1500.
Can I use Waterlox over TWP stain?
No. You cannot apply anything over the TWP.
Not even polyurethane?
Using polyurethane on exterior wood is a very bad idea. It will peel and blister.
Which TWP product is best for sealing exterior antique pine posts? They will be on a porch exposed to the South Louisiana weather.
TWP 1500.
Which TWP product is best for exterior mahogany doors?
TWP 1500.