The UV protectant sprays TreeHelp carries give no fixed reapplication schedule, so a fresh coat is timed by the surface itself: when color starts to fade again, water stops beading, or wood begins to gray. Pieces in full sun reach those signs soonest, since light and water shorten the life of any finish.

Why does a UV protectant coating wear off over time?

Because sunlight keeps working on the surface and the finish weathers along with it. Ultraviolet light begins breaking down lignin, the compound that binds wood fibers together, within a few hours of exposure, and penetrating finishes lose their water repellency and turn gray as they weather.

What signs show a surface needs a fresh coat?

Four signs point to a worn finish:

• Fading color on a piece that looked even after treatment
• Water drops soaking in quickly instead of beading on treated wood
• A silver or gray cast on wood as surface fibers weather
• Mildew growth, which usually indicates the need to refinish

How is a UV protectant spray reapplied?

In a light, even coat. Once dirt and mildew have been washed off and the piece has dried, a fresh coat of the SunGuard Multi Surface Outdoor Decor UV Protectant Spray can be applied over garden statues, planters, and patio furniture, and it dries to the touch in 15 minutes or less.

Does sun exposure change how often a coat is needed?

Yes. Reducing a surface's exposure to light and water increases the service life of a finish, so a bench under a tree canopy tends to hold its coat longer than one in open sun. Horizontal surfaces such as decks are often the worst affected.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon can recoated cushions get wet?

After 24 hours. Cushions treated with the SunGuard Fabric Outdoor Decor UV Protectant, a clear UV and waterproofing coating for canvas, nylon, polyester, rayon, and cotton, need that long before meeting moisture.

Does a UV protectant stop all color change?

No. UV stabilizers in finishes do not necessarily prevent color change caused by visible light.

How long can a clear finish last on outdoor wood?

It varies widely. The best clear finishes last about ten years when fully exposed, while a water repellent finish may last only 1 to 2 years.

What removes mildew from wood before recoating?

A mildew cleaner or diluted bleach. Washing with a commercial mildew cleaner or a diluted bleach and detergent solution clears it before refinishing.