Restore-A-Deck Stripper - Deck Stain Removers
Removing an old deck stain from a wood deck is an essential part of restoring the wood to like new condition. Most wood stains or sealers will not adhere well to an older existing wood stain. Deck stain removers will soften and emulsify an old wood stain so that it can be removed more easily. Wood stain removers consist of chemicals that break the old stain down and allow it to be pressure washed from the wood using a lower amount of pressure so no harm is done to the soft wood fibers.
Using too much pressure to remove an old deck stain or sealer can damage the wood fibers beyond repair. Wood stain removers will help to eliminate this problem. Most deck stain removers are made up of caustic chemicals such as sodium hydroxide and may have other additives that act as cleaning agents. This loosens old deck stains and grayed out or sun damaged wood fibers making them easier to remove.
As mentioned, removing an old stain is crucial in preparing the deck for a new coat of deck stain. Restore-A-Deck Stripper is effective for removing clear sealers, semi-transparent stains, and semi-solid stains. The may assist in removing a solid stain or deck paint but may not remove it completely. Several applications and some sanding may be necessary on these heavier pigmented deck stains to achieve optimal results.
After Restore-A-Deck Stripper is used the wood naturally becomes dark colored and has a high pH level. This is not ideal in appearance or for proper adhesion of the new deck stain. To restore the wood’s pH level to be more acidic a wood brightener, Restore-A-Deck Brightener should be applied. This brightens to wood appearance and helps to open the wood pores to better accept the new stain. This also ensures the new wood deck stain will give better longer lasting protection against the elements. This step is just as important as removing the old stain. Preparing the wood correctly as mentioned will guarantee a better deck restoration and give you lasting results.