[dorseyb13]

I was all set to buy Thompson's Sealer Plus when the clerk at Home Depot suggested Flood CWF-UV. He stated that it was "even better than Thompson's". He assured me it was "superior". He had nothing to gain by changing my mind. No commission involved. I have purchased both, Thompson's from Lowe's and Flood from Home Depot. I just want to make the most informed and best choice.

[magprob]

Anything you put on your deck will only last about 3 years. The best stain is Cabots. It looks good and lasts the longest. Thompsons really doesn't do much.

[dorseyb13]

Very accurate

[ballengerb1]

Sorry but I can not agree with the statement that Thompsons doesn't really do much. Thompson makes several products and their Advanced is quite good as is their Thompson Waterproofer Plus Wood Protector Thompson's® WaterSeal® Waterproofer Plus Clear Wood Protector - ThompsonsWaterSeal.com If you look at what the log cabin builders use you usually will not see either of these brands. They lean toward Sikkens and TWP. Most of what you know is based on our limited experiences so these answers are mostly opinions.

[magprob]

I've done several log homes, cedar homes and more decks than I care to remember. Most of what you know is based on zero experience and all opinion.
There is no stain or anything else that will last much over 3 to 4 years. Wood needs to breath. If you put anything on it that seals it from fresh air, it begins to rot. It's OK if it gets wet but it needs to dry quickly. If you own a log home worth a million or two, you need to get and experts opinion, not just an opinion.
I have used everything out there and Cabots has caused the least problems for me. The call backs will kill you.