Longevity vs ease of use

[Beth n Rod]

Ok guys....what's your take on this age old question? What is more important in a deck sealer? Longevity or ease of use?

Beth

[James]

I think it's to vague of a question with many way's to interpret the function. Ease of future maint. is at the top along with maintaining the integrity of the wood. Understanding wood and how it degrades is the first step on how to approach understanding sealers.

[Beth n Rod]

But Jim, vague questions promote thought provoking discussions from wood professionals such as yourself!

Beth

[Beth n Rod]

Don't forget to vote!
Beth

[RPetry]

Voted "other" although "ease of use" is high on the list due to increased productivity. Longevity is generally not an issue as at least here in the Northeast, premium stains, ie: WoodTux, Ready Seal, Bakers, etc., all seem to last about 2 yrs. on softwoods.

Ease of maintenance is primary. The ability to restain time and time again without stripping is very beneficial to customers and is a real selling point.

Consistent, high quality manufacturing standards. The stain is always well made, with the same ingredients, formulation, and performance qualities, year after year. Never a problem with the product.

Availability. Never a delay in getting the stain. We try not to carry more than 50 or so gallons in stock at any one time so it is important. ~ 85% of our jobs are one of two colors, but we often need non-stocked colors quickly.

Shipping. Hand in glove with availability, the product must ship quickly without delay. Thanks to ACR Products, our stain arrives on the doorstep within 24 -30 hours after the order. And free freight with quantities of 30 gallons or more. Can't beat that service.

[James]

Is this about women.............? L O L

[northwestern]

Originally Posted by James

Is this about women.............? L O L

I think it might be one of those trick questions...like "what do you think?"

[RPetry]

Jim,

I think you have it backwards. Any women in the world would ask:

Is this about men?

[Beth n Rod]

Ok, I will chime in here...it's about me alright!?!?!?
nokay, it's about longevity, and in this economy that is a strong selling point.

Rod!~

[Greg R]

Both are important IMO but as Rick said on average 2 years is about it. We see alot of customers on the 3rd year for maintenance so I tend to weight the side of ease of maintenance/application since longevity seems to be about equal.