What sealant for deck railing?

oli32

I have deck railing which is about 20 years old, and about 7 years ago I had an extension done to match the original. In a section of the original railing I found some rot in the bottom 40x20 which has extended into the bottom rail. I am currently prepping to repaint and I am thinking of pulling all of the slats off and shortening them (big job) to allow moisture to dry, and then using some sort of caulking on the back and front of the bottom 40x20 to prevent the same.

Can someone recommend the type of sealant. Any other comment welcomed.

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @oli32. It's fantastic to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about sealant.

For your deck railing, it’s a good idea to glue the sections together initially to provide a strong bond. Afterward, ensure the entire surface is coated with a high-quality exterior paint, as this will act as a protective sealant against moisture. For any gaps that remain, use an exterior-grade sealant. This will prevent moisture ingress and help to prolong the life of the railing. Regular maintenance, such as inspecting and repainting when needed, will further protect the wood from future rot.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell