A wood deck cleaner can help remove dirt, nail stains, algae and mildew. If your deck isn't brand-new, always use a cleaner before applying finish. Lack of preparation is the most common reason why deck stains and sealers fail, so don't skip this very important step.
FAQ's Do I really need to use deck cleaner before staining? Yes, you really do need to use a deck cleaner before staining. If you don't, contaminants can get trapped under the deck stain and cause it to peel and fade prematurely... Should I pressure wash or use deck cleaner?
Best chemicals for greyed out wood are sodium percarbonate (oxi clean) or sodium metasilicate. They help the greyed out fibers separate from the surface. A lot of other deck cleaners are sodium percarbonate based and come in powdered forms.
Clearing away the old finish, grime, mold, mildew, and other impurities in the wood—as well as the graying layer of the wood that was exposed to the sun—will allow the stain to absorb evenly into the wood. After you power wash, allow the wood to dry for at least 48 hours before you begin applying the new stain.
Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain is best applied the same day as prep typically 2-4 hours at 70 degrees F and less than 50% humidity. Make sure that all standing water has dried off the surface prior to application.
To wash your deck, we recommend first applying a deck cleaning solution, and then power washing. A good deck cleaner will remove gray fibers, dirt, mold, mildew and other impurities deep in your deck boards, that power washing alone won't be able to accomplish.
When the deck surface isn't clean and free of mold or mildew, there may be peeling or trouble with a consistent coating. Always start with a thoroughly clean surface area before attempting any other covering on a deck or patio.
A high-quality natural bristle brush with soft but firm bristles is recommended for applying stain to a deck. Using the right brush and following the manufacturer's instructions is essential to avoid drips and streaks.
Cutek Extreme CD50 is a top deck sealer on the market. It stands out for its deep penetration and UV protection abilities. This sealer soaks into your deck's wood to help keep it safe from water, rot, and termites. It also shields against damaging sun rays that make wood gray over time.
Sanding is an important step in refinishing a wood deck. The effects of weather and sunlight, as well as the deep cleaning that was just completed, will raise the grain of the wood. If the deck is to be stained, it's best to sand the wood smooth.
In some cases, your deck's previous coat of stain will begin to fade and peel from the surface, in which case it's best to remove it before applying a new coat. Other times, however, the old stain will stay put even if it's been there for several years.
Simple Green Oxy Solve Deck and Fence Cleaner is ideal for both manual and pressure washing to lift and remove dirt and debris from the deck surface. The fast-acting foaming formula eliminates stains from mold and mildew, tree sap, pollen, oxidation, weathering and other grime.
Thoroughly sweep your deck, removing as much dust, dirt, leaves, and debris as possible. Apply cleaner using a roller or sprayer. Read the manufacturer's instructions for mixing, noting whether the surface needs to be wet or dry for application.
Do You Have to Sand Before Staining Wood? Wood needs to be sanded well before it can be stained. The process opens up the wood's pores to better absorb the stain. It also smoothes away scratches in the surface which will only be enhanced by stain.
Consider Spraying Your Stain
In fact, starting your staining process via spraying is often the way to go, as long as you implement the proper technique. Spraying your waterproof deck stain from the get-go allows you to cover even more area than rolling does and also reach those tighter spaces.
What to Use for Staining a Deck. A paint roller is one tool that's essential to apply stain smoothly and efficiently. Choose a roller for this task with a nap that can hold a good amount of stain and spread paint out quickly.
Two Coats Recommended: Most manufacturers suggest applying two coats for optimal protection and appearance. Drying Time Matters: Wait at least 4 hours between coats and 24 hours before using the deck. Avoid Over-Application: Too much stain can lead to poor adhesion, peeling, and uneven color.
The weather conditions, of course, are a huge factor when considering a deck drying. If your deck is on the shaded side of the home where little to no sunlight reaches, it's recommended to wait at least 72 hours before applying any stain or sealer.
Simply squeeze dish soap into a bucket and run some hot water over it. Then mop the solution on to the deck. Brush in the direction of the grain with a stiff-bristled brush (one with a long handle is easier to work with). Rinse off with a hose, allow to dry, inspect the deck and repeat if necessary.
Weathered wood must be cleaned with a bleach-and-water solution to remove any mold and mildew present prior to application. It is not necessary to rinse the bleach solution after the cleaning process on a vertical surface like a fence.