I have a balcony constructed from cedarwood decking. When the decking

was originally laid, about 3 years ago, it had a wonderful lustrous
reddish-brown colour, which has gradually faded until now its usual
colour is a silver-grey. But the odd thing is, when it rains, the
water seems to bring up the original vibrant colour, which stays until
the wood dries again, when it goes back to grey. Does anyone have the

explanation for this phenomenon? Might it be possible to retain the
original colour even when the wood is dry - without using a stain?

Ken