The durability of your Broda Protektor finish depends on three things: proper preparation, correct application, and regular maintenance. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Preparation is key

• Always clean the wood thoroughly before adding a new coat, even for maintenance.
• Use a quality wood cleaner, such as Prato-Verde Cleaner & Brightener, or an equivalent product.
• Light brushing is usually not enough.
• Avoid high-pressure washing: it can damage the surface.

2. Sanding matters

• If the wood was sanded too smooth (e.g., 100–120 grit), the stain may not penetrate well.
• For best results, sand with 60–80 grit before applying.

3. Check wood saturation

• Broda stain works by penetrating the wood.
• If the wood no longer absorbs product (“doesn’t drink”), do not apply another coat: overcoating can lead to peeling.

4. Color choice affects performance

• Pigment-rich colors offer better UV protection but still require annual cleaning.
• The lighter or more transparent the color, the more frequent the maintenance.

5. Recommended finish system

• 2 coats of colored Broda Protektor DR or SLT
• 1 coat of DR or SLT UV topcoat for added UV protection and a fresh look
• Reassess every 2–4 years depending on sun exposure, fading, or loss of sheen.

6. Maintenance guide

• If color still looks good: Clean thoroughly (no pressure washer) and apply 1 coat of DR or SLT UV Clear Top Coat.
• If color has faded: Clean, apply 1 maintenance coat of colored stain (or clear with a tint), then 1 coat of DR or SLT UV.
• Never apply to dirty or saturated wood: adhesion will be poor and wear will be faster.

In short:

Broda Protektor DR and SLT UV Clear Top Coat work like sunscreen for your wood: they extend the life of the stain but don’t replace maintenance. With proper preparation and application, you won’t need to redo the finish every year; just keep an eye on the wood and recoat when needed.