Olympic 1 Gallon SC-1078 Snowflake Exterior Solid Wood Protector Stain Plus Sealer in One

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I got the Olympic Wood Protector Solid in Deep Redwood Solid to update my shed, which was several years overdue for some protective coating. I like that this is solid so it helps hide flaws better, but the color was not what I was expecting. I know it is called deep redwood but the picture examples on the Olympic website show this to be closer to brown. I was shocked at the bright red color in the can so I started with a swatch test before going all in. It applies just as bright but when I checked it the next day after it dried it did deepen, though it still has more red to it than what is shown on the website (see my attached pictures for swatches). There is a color dot on the sticker label on the can, though I am not sure that it came from the color in my can as it too is more brown than what is in the can. So once I was over the color shock, I decided I was going to roll with it and have a pop of color in my yard for the shed. I still give this 5 stars because I like that it is a solid stain and sealant in one with waterproofing protection and UV defense. It is nice that it can last up to 5 years for decks and 15 years for fences and siding so I won't have to apply more for a long while. My shed is exposed to plenty of sunlight so I haven't had mildew issues, but it is nice that this has a mildew resistant coating for additional protection if needed.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Our pergola was installed a few months ago and in need of being stained. Traditionally, stain is applied after the wood has been weathered for a year, but with this stain, it allows you to either apply to new wood or weathered wood. I like that this is self-priming and that it has stain and sealant in one, cutting down on the workload. Since our pergola requires a ladder, I was also looking for a product that would not have to be applied every year or two. This solid stain protects up to 5 years on decks and 15 years on fencing and siding, so I am optimistic. Due to temperatures and rain, I have been unable to prep and stain my pergola properly, but I did a test on one of the pieces of board remaining from our project. Since our patio is in the sun nearly all day, the UV protection is a must and should help the stain last longer, thereby protecting the wood. The mildew resistant coating is also an added benefit I like since I live in the humid south and it can be easy for surfaces to mildew if not properly treated. I applied one coat and two coats on my sample board. The one coat shows quite a bit more of the grain, whereas the required two coats provides a more solid, protected surface. I found it helpful to back brush to get the stain in the dents and crevices and to leave a wet edge while working. I only did 1 board, but I used a 1" brush and the wet edge is a must to encourage uniformity. Although I only did a small sample, I am satisfied with this solid stain. It provides even coverage and I can't wait to get it applied to my pergola.