Both PenaShield and Boracare are great options for you. Penashield is ready to use and Boracare you would mix. Penashield does not penetrate the wood as far as Boracare. Also, Boracare will last the lifetime of the wood, whereas, Penashield would need to be reapplied to raw wood every couple years.
PenaShield is meant to be applied undiluted directly from the container.
Both PenaShield and Bora-Care should be applied to untreated, clean, dry wood. Boracare does not need to be re-applied. PenaShield must be re-applied every 1 to 5 years to exterior unfinished bare wood surfaces.
Yes, you can apply PenaShield to pressure treated wood, and once it has dried you can apply a water sealant. Allow PenaShield-treated wood to dry completely (at least 24 hours) before applying any protective finish. Protective finish must be applied within 2 weeks of treatment.
Unfortunately yes, that is true. PenaShield cannot be shipped to California.
Application Instructions for PenaShield:
Apply PenaShield only to bare wood or to wood surfaces where an intact water-repellent barrier is not present. PenaShield is a ready-to-use product. Either brushapply directly from the container or apply with a low pressure garden-type sprayer. Small wooden items may also be treated by dipping. Return unused product to original container and seal tightly. Always clean and/or flush equipment and lines with water after use. When applying more than one coat, wait at least 20 minutes between applications. No immersion or dip soaking necessary. Please be sure to review the product label for more information.
PenaShield should not damage concrete. Please be sure to review the product label for more information and complete application instructions.