What is the cost of penetrating deck sealer versus film-forming stain in NB?

Penetrating deck sealers typically cost $40-60 per gallon in New Brunswick, while film-forming stains run $50-80 per gallon, but the real cost difference comes from how often you'll need to reapply them in our harsh Maritime climate.

Penetrating Sealers soak deep into the wood grain and provide protection from within. In New Brunswick's freeze-thaw climate, this is actually advantageous because there's no surface film to crack and peel when water freezes and expands in the wood. You'll pay $40-60 per gallon for quality penetrating sealers like Sikkens Cetol SRD or Cabot Australian Timber Oil. Coverage is typically 150-200 square feet per gallon on weathered wood, more on new lumber.

Film-Forming Stains create a protective coating on the wood surface and generally cost $50-80 per gallon for premium brands like Benjamin Moore Arborcoat or Sherwin Williams SuperDeck. They offer better UV protection and more consistent color, but New Brunswick's 100+ annual freeze-thaw cycles can cause the film to crack and peel, especially on horizontal deck boards that collect snow and ice.

The real cost difference emerges over time. Penetrating sealers typically need reapplication every 2-3 years in our climate, while film-forming stains may need touch-ups after just 1-2 years if the film starts failing. However, penetrating products are much easier to reapply — you can simply clean and recoat without stripping. Film-forming stains often require complete removal of failed coating before reapplication, adding $2-4 per square foot in prep costs.

For a typical 200 square foot deck, you're looking at $80-120 in penetrating sealer every 2-3 years, versus $100-160 in film-forming stain every 1-2 years, plus potential stripping costs. Factor in New Brunswick's short application season (mid-May through September only), and penetrating sealers often provide better long-term value despite similar upfront costs.

Professional application runs $3-6 per square foot including materials, so that 200 square foot deck would cost $600-1,200 to have professionally cleaned and sealed. Many homeowners tackle this as a DIY project, but remember — temperature must stay above 10°C for 24-48 hours after application, and no rain for at least 24 hours.

Need help finding a deck maintenance contractor? New Brunswick Decks can match you with local professionals who understand our climate's specific challenges.