The primary problem with Thompson’s Water Seal on exterior wood is its low durability and lack of UV protection. It creates a surface-level film rather than deeply penetrating the wood. When this seal cracks from sun exposure or heavy foot traffic, it traps moisture inside the wood, accelerating rotting and graying.
If you are looking for a quick, temporary solution, Thompson's WaterSeal can work. For most deck owners, however, investing in a better-quality stain will provide far better long-term results and easier maintenance.
Water Seal can only be used on bare and uncoated brick, stone or concrete. How long will Water Seal last? If applied correctly, Water Seal will last up to 4 years. This is dependent on conditions such as orientation of the wall and local climate.
Because of this, you need to make sure that the surface is completely dry and free of debris prior to applying. If over-application occurs and there is puddling of the product, redistribute product within 15 minutes to a dry area or wipe off.
Overpainting of surfaces treated with Thompson's Water Seal is not advised. milky appearance in the can in the can, but clears quickly upon application. For best results ensure the surface is as dry as possible. Apply 2 coats using brush, roller and sprayer.
Silicone vs Polyurethane vs Acrylic: Sealant Comparison Table. Silicone provides excellent waterproofing, even in areas with standing water. Polyurethane provides excellent waterproofing and resists long-term moisture exposure. Acrylic provides moderate waterproofing and is best for low-moisture areas.
Thompson's Water Seal uses a unique micro silicone emulsion to stop water penetration. Apply Water Seal directly onto damp surfaces to provide long lasting waterproof protection within hours.
Removing Waterproofers and Stains
Apply and in minutes you can scrub and rinse away old finishes. If you want to remove solid stains, you'll need to use Thompson's® WaterSeal® Maximum Strength Deck Stripper.
Allow 45 days drying time before applying latex paint over Thompson's® WaterSeal® Clear Multi-Surface Waterproofer. Allow a minimum of 3 days drying time before applying oil based paint over Thompson's® WaterSeal® Clear Multi-Surface Waterproofer. Length of protection will vary depending on environment.
DRYING TIME Thompson's Water Seal should be dry in 2 hours under normal conditions. Dry times depend on the texture & type of surface you're coating. Remove as much product as possible from equipment before cleaning. All equipment should be cleaned immediately after use with detergent and warm water.
Whether you're using sealant in a bathroom, kitchen, or outdoor area, it is crucial that you understand its drying times. If you disturb the sealant before it has time to fully dry, it can lead to poor bonding, resulting in future leaks and damaged seals, particularly when exposed to moisture.
The Best Concrete Sealers Tested in 2023
While the advantages outweigh the negatives, there are some disadvantages that you should keep in mind before sealing your concrete driveway.
Yes, WD-40 does help to remove silicone sealant. To remove silicone sealant with WD-40, scrape off as much silicone as you can with a removal tool first. After that, spray WD-40 onto the remaining silicone, leave it for 10-15 minutes, and then scrape and scrub off the remaining silicone.
In light of that, we prefer sealing over coating. Sealing wood protects wood from moisture and brings out its natural beauty at the same time. Sealer also allows wood to age gracefully. So much so, that the aesthetic differences between sealing and coating are truly remarkable.
Best Oil-Based
In general, polyurethane waterproof coatings are one of the most durable options since they are resistant to chemicals and can withstand extreme temperatures and UV exposure.
Breathable protection: Allows moisture vapour to escape, reducing the risk of trapped damp. Easy application: A brush or spray can be applied to damp surfaces for quick results.
Sealed paving requires ongoing maintenance to keep it looking fresh. Over time, the sealant will wear down, requiring reapplication. Additionally, improper application or environmental factors such as heavy rainfall can cause the sealant to wear unevenly, leading to patchy appearances.