Hello, My deck is about 1.5 years old. Noticed a few 6x6 supports that have lengthwise splits, some long and about inch deep in spots and 1/8 or so wide. Is this normal and should something be done about it? Thanks for any help!!

I was thinking of using a Cabot opaque stain on our pressure treated wood deck (just got it power-washed). I like the idea of using white for the spindles and rails (since and a reddish brown for the decking (brick house with white exterior trim); however, my painter thinks that the white will get dirty and show green mildew. How hard will it be to keep the railings looking clean if I do decide to go with the white? How long would this kind of stain last before having to be redone? We live in the midatlantic, so lots of heat and humidity in the summer and snow/ice in the winter -- the backyard has lots of trees, but the deck does get some direct overhead sun at midday.. Thanks!