How to Restore-A-Deck in One Day!
Restore-A-Deck’s three-step process makes it possible to complete a wood staining project in a single day. The stain is safe to apply on damp wood, perfect for those who are busy and want to achieve same-day results for their exterior wood staining projects.
Here’s a rundown of Restore-A-Deck’s three-step process, it’s components, and how they work together to produce an immaculately stained wood surface.
Step 1: Restore-A-Deck Wood Cleaner or Restore-A-Deck Wood Stripper
Are you working with a wood surface that has not previously been stained? If so, use the Restore-A-Deck Cleaner. The Wood Cleaner works hard to remove dirt, grime, mold, and mildew better than the competition after one application. It restores the natural beauty of exterior wood to its original appearance without harming wood fibers, pets, grass, and most plants.
Restore-A-Deck Cleaner can also be used for maintenance coats when using the same brand stain as before.
If you are working with a new wood surface that has previously been stained or painted, strip the wood surface using Restore-A-Deck Stripper. The Wood Stripper quickly and efficiently removes most oil and latex based finishes including clear sealers, transparent stains, and semi-transparent stains. On top of removing the stain, the Wood Stripping formula takes off collected dirt, mold, mildew, and mill glaze.
Both come in a concentrated powder form that is convenient to transport and is extremely cost effective. Can be mixed on site with water then applied directly to the wood.
Step 2: Restore-A-Deck Brightener
After you complete step 1, using Restore-A-Deck Cleaner or Stripper depending on your situation, we recommend you follow up with Restore-A-Deck Brightener to neutralize the pH of the surface to allow for proper application of the stain. This formula works hard upon initial application to brighten the wood surface as well as remove stubborn rust stains and tannin stains caused by fallen leaves. Restore-A-Deck brightener will give your deck or wood surface a clean looking finish ideal for applying the stain.
Step 3: Restore-A-Deck Stain
The final step in this three-step process is the Stain. Restore-A-Deck Stain uses the latest in water-based wood staining technology to create a formula that allows for better UV protection, excellent penetration into the wood stain for long lasting beautiful results, and the ability to apply to damp wood for single day project completion or to dry wood the day after prep. The Wood Stain comes in four radiant semi-transparent colors that highlight and enhance the natural wood grain.
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.
See here for: Wet on Wet Application Tips
See here for tips on new wood: Restore-A-Deck Stain and New Wood
See her for hot sun application: Restore-A-Deck Stain Hot Sun Application
If you have used the Restore-A-Deck in one-day system, we want to hear from you. Feel free to leave a review and don’t forget to include pictures.
I want to apply a very light coat of stain to a fence. I am going to use the dark walnut semi transparent. Can I use the sprayer you sell?
Yes.
I successfully applied your stain last year. Now, I have some bare areas from snow shovelling and such. I need to reapply this year again. So, cleaner, brightner, stain? Any need for pressure washing or anything like that?
Correct. Use the pressure washer to wash off the Cleaner.
which color semi-transparant is closer to a reddish color?
2nd Application process, do you spray on cleaner and then scrub or apply the let sit for awhile? 20 yr old non-stained deck, or
Light Walnut is a reddish color with a hint of brown. You apply the cleaner, let dwell for 10-15 minutes, and then pressure wash off for best results.
I’m going to apply 2 coats of classic white solid stain to the 20 year old 6 x 6 posts that support my decks. I also want to apply the solid white stain to two benches built January 2021. I’m planning to clean and brighten both first. I’d appreciate any advice on keeping the cleaner/brightener on the vertical posts. I also want to know how long I should wait between applying the 2 coats of stain.
Just spray on prep products to vertical and then pressure wash off after 10-15 minutes. The second coat of solid stain goes on as soon as the first coat is fully dry.
The overnight temps are getting down into the 40’s. What is the minimum temp we can start applying the stain in the morning?
50.
I have a 2nd floor deck that is surrounded by painted railing and support structure, will the stripper damage the latex paint in these areas?
It does not remove paint unless the paint is already failing/peeling.
What size/type nozzle should I use on the pressure washer for rinsing the stripper and then the brightener?
You pressure wash off the stripper, not rinse. Rinse the brightener. The green or white tip.
Hi, We found out that the house we purchased has a non-PT wood deck, heat-treated only (pine). What can we do to preserve it/maintain it? Location: SC mountains, partial shade, surrounded by deciduous forest.
Prep and stain with the Restore A Deck products.
Hi. My older redwood deck is 205 sq feet. I have just sanded it completely. I would like to use RAD semi transparent stain. How much should I purchase?
One coat for sanded wood. 1-2 gallons as varies on how porous it is.
If you stain, the same day as your strip/brighten how long should you wait before applying the stain? Part of my deck is covered, concerned the wood in the uncovered portion will be dryer than the wood that is covered.
See here for some tips: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/Deck-Cleaning-Reviews-and-Tips/how-to-restore-a-deck-stain-to-damp-wood.html
It took the entire day for me to strip and pressure wash. I didn’t have time to brighten before it was dark. The deck has some areas where the old stain did not come up. Should I strip again or go ahead and brighten. I will have to order more stripper, if I need to strip those areas a second time.
Best to spot strip and then brighten all when done.
I used both additives with the stripper the first time. Should I use the additives for spot stripping as well?
It would help.
Once the wood is wet it is hard to see the spots that need stripped a second time. Is it ok to apply the stripper to dry wood when spot stripping or would it be best to strip the entire deck a second time?
Do I need to remove all of the Behr semi-transparent stain before using Restore a Deck? It’s nearly gone on horizontal surfaces, but still pretty firmly attached to many vertical surfaces. Will your stripper remove it readily?
You will have to remove all. Post some pictures here in the comments.
Here are some photos. The deck itself has just bits of stain left. Many of the verticals are still pretty well covered.
Use the RAD Stripper with both additives: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/rad-stain-stripper-additives.html
Let dwell for 45-60 minutes (mist if needed to keep from drying out), pressure wash off, repeat if needed, brightener last.
I already submitted my order earlier today. Can I update it to include the additive?
You need both additives and best to call and do this over the phone as we do not store credit cards for security reasons.
Also, can you tell me what the coverage of the additives are? I ordered the 5 gallon set of stain/stripper/brightener. The horizontal part of my deck (which will not need additive) is about 600 sq ft. How much of the additive will I need?
One of each additive per 5-gallon kit.
Is the stripper and/or brightener harmful to plants? If so, is it harmful to getting on the leaves as well as getting in the ground? What is the best way to protect garden plants?
Cover the leaves while so they are not “burned” from the prep products. It will not harm the ground or roots.
1 year old semi transparent Restore A Deck stained deck. process to apply another coat now.
Use the RAD Cleaner and then Brightener.
I came here to ask this question. :). Just to confirm, if I want to reapply RestoreADeck , I need to go through the full Clean/Brightener steps again this year. (approaching my 1 year anniversary)
Yes, that is correct.
Thank you!
Can I use bug juice with the rad solid stain?Thanks
Yes.
I applied thompsons semi transparent last summer. Everything in the sun about 50% of the deck is peeling. Do i strip and brighten before restaining? Thanks
Yes, and use both additives with the stripper: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/rad-stain-stripper-additives.html
I’ve searched this site for the answer to this question but haven’t found anyone with my unique situation: I have a concrete patio under our deck… do we need to protect it with plastic sheeting prior to using your products? If so, just for the staining portion or for the whole thing (i.e. will stripping/cleaning/brightening runoff stain our concrete)? Because of the forecast for this weekend, I have to do our project in two days (strip/clean/brighten on first day; stain on third day with one day of rain in between). Many thanks!
Cover during staining only.
I applied the Restore-a-Deck semi-transparent stain-2 coats- last summer after sanding carefully, using the RAD cleaner and brightener, but this Spring I noticed lots of white spots (see pictures), amplified when I power-washed the deck. Question: normally you restain every two-three years but it looks like I’ll need to do it now. If so, do I have to use a brightener again? And why the white spots?Thanks.
You removed the stain while pressure washing to close to the wood. You can see your pressure washer marks. Best to to a full prep and recoat. Use the Restore A Deck Kits.
I applied the Restore-a-Deck semi-transparent stain last fall. How do I know when it is time to re-stain? Just by visible wear or is there a water absorption test that should be done periodically? Also, it is possible to re-stain too frequently, like annual, and end up with a film buildup?
More is not always better. Every 2-3 years is normal.
I already got the cleaner, brightened, and the semitransparent stain. Ready to restore my 2 cedar decks (never stained before). Now, I want to sand the decks a bit as well (they are old and have been power washed quite aggressively in the past. And it shows). I am not 100% when should I do that, considering that the decks would have to fully dry before sanding. Either:1. Clean->power wash->brighten->rinse->let it dry->sand->wash->stainOR2. Clean->power wash->let it dry->sand->brighten->rinse->stain
Thanks
Clean->power wash->let it dry->sand->brighten->rinse->stain
Ok, Time to re-stain. last stained 2 seasons ago. Used Restore-A-Deck Clear stain before. Do I need to remove the previous application before re-staining? Plan was was to clean and brighten, then apply the new stain. ThanksDan C.
I assume you mean Natural as it does not come in Clear. Use the RAD Cleaner and Brightener kits while pressure washing for prep.
Can I use a roller to apply RAD semitransparent to horizontal surfaces? Thanks
Use a stain pad or brush. Rollers splatter and do not apply the semi-transparent stain evenly.https://www.restore-a-deck.com/decktools.html
Another picture from hot tub sat.
We would strip off as much as you can and then sand the rest off. Under the tub was a solid stain. Use both additives: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/rad-stain-stripper-additives.htmlhttps://www.restore-a-deck.com/rad-stain-stripper-additives.html
Brightener last.
Another picture, a hot tub was in this spot.
I am not sure if our deck was stained or painted (whatever it was happened 13 years ago)…can you tell? If painted, we have to first sand, then use your products, correct? If stained, we can go straight to strip, brighten, then stain? First timer!!
Does Water bead on surfaces coated with RAD Stains?
How soon can a surface be rained on without damaging the finish? thanks, Phil
Shed water does not bead as it is a breathable stain. It can take rain 6-10 hours after applying.
We recently stained our deck. I wanted a walnut color like the flooring in our house. However when the guy at the paint store “matched” the flooring, what we got was a gray stain. I thought maybe with a second coat it would look different. It does not. It looks solid gray. I hate it and so I want to strip it. Will the Restore-A-Deck work to do this or will we need to sand it all?
That is a solid stain. You will have to sand to remove it.
I have a 3-4yr old solid stain that i like and would like to reapply same brand/color, so can I just use restore a deck cleaner and reapply the stain over the old stain? And do I use a stiff brush or mild pressure wash to clean stain? Thanks if you’ve the time
Use the stripper and then pressure wash off.
I have a 15 + y/o cedar deck that’s been stained multiple times. 2 years ago after sanding large areas of the deck until smooth, I had used Olympic semi transparent stain which gave a good look. But, areas have peeled. I was on the deck review website And impressed with the reviews of your product which said it could be used with ( I obviously thought over) acrylic type stains like Olympic. I have cleaned and used the brightener and now also reading that I should have stripped the deck first. My error. Part of the reason for not wanting to strip the deck are some 80 ft of railing as well as a skirt around the deck , and the vertical posts. I assume the stripper will get on this and double the work, not just one day. I I was hoping to avoid that. What do you suggest?
This will not be an easy strip, looks thick. Yes, this would have to fully come off if you want to use the RAD semi-transparent stain. Use the stripper with both additives to remove as much as you can: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/rad-stain-stripper-additives.html
Sand the rest off after. Brightener last.
Yes, my assessment as well. I was trying to get by without stripping and sanding as I know this deck well. Do you do returns? Thanks for getting back to me.
https://www.restore-a-deck.com/Store-Policies/refund.html
Can I dilute restore a deck stain
No.
I’m looking to stain my fence, installed 2 years ago and soft washed about a week ago. I’m trying to sort thru all of the steps to make sure I have it right. Do I need to clean and brighten or can I go ahead and just stain since it was already cleaned?
Additionally, I have a small wooden entrance patio that was painted years ago and is now flaking off. Will the stripper work on the remaining paint?
Pictures of both are needed.
First two pics are the patio, the third is the fence.
The fence is ready to be stained. The peeling paint needs to be sanded off. Strippers will not remove it.
So straight to stain for the fence. One coat or two?
I was afraid the patio was going to be elbow grease. Once it’s sanded then use the cleaner and then stain?
2 coats wet on wet for the fence. Yes on the prep after sanding.
How do you remove the stamp from new pine boards
Sand it off if the cleaner does not remove it.
This deck was stripped, brightened and fully sanded prior to a dry application of the semi-transparent stain using a deck roller. I think this wood will require two coats even though the product instructions say sanded wood only needs one coat. The first coat is already cured, can I lightly sand it and then put two coats on using the wet on wet method or do I have to wait until next summer to clean and just add another coat? Thanks!
You will have to wait until next Spring.
I will be sanding a covered deck to remove old solid stain. Could I wait a few months, until fall to clean, brighten and stain with semi transparent stain? Thank you.
Yes, you can.
Huge previously stained pressure treated deck with TWP semi transparent oil base stain cedar tone..not happy with the results as live in woods and oil based has led to mildew…want to use restore a deck water base stain…must I use stripper first vice just cleaner followed by Brightener? Thank you four assistance.
You need to strip and brighten for prep.
I have about 440 square feet of deck and the high is suppose to be 84 degrees today. About 3/4 of the deck will not be in direct sunlight. Is it okay to strip, brighten and stain today?
It might be too hot to stain. See this: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/Deck-Cleaning-Reviews-and-Tips/restore-a-deck-stain-hot-sun-application.html
Thank you. I’ll wait then.
We have an old deck. Used RAD stain 3 years ago. Time to re-stain (same color). First, do I have the RAD one-day process correct (below)?
1. Sweep deck and lightly spray with water to dampen.
2. Apply RAD Cleaner, wait 15 minutes, and power wash to remove dirt. Then rinse deck.
3. Apply RAD Brightener while deck is still wet. Let Brightner stand 10 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly for 20 minutes.
4. Wait several hours and apply RAD stain (make sure deck has no standing water).
5. DONE.
Final question >>> Do I need to use Brightner? If so, how long between rinsing Cleaner and applying Brightner? Remove standing water? Thanks so much!!
Steps are correct, brightener helps. Apply the brightener as soon as you are done with the cleaning.
Using RAD Cedar Semi-Transparent stain on old wood. One coat or two? If 2, how long between applications? Thanks again.
Two light coats: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/Deck-Cleaning-Reviews-and-Tips/restore-a-deck-stain-wet-on-wet-application.html
A few questions:
I plan to use the stripper/brightener on my deck. Is that what you would recommend for the photos attached? I am not sure what was previously on it and nothing has been done to it for at least 9-10 years.
How soon after the cleaning process does it have to get stained? And does it matter what brand stain we use? I would rather buy a stain that we can purchase locally in case we run out or need a second coat.
Square footage is aprox 358 with 3 steps and about 50 ft of railing.
A cleaner and brightener is what you would need for this prep.
The cleaner is ok even though there was something on it at one time?
Actually a stripper would be better and then brighten.
i am planning on using RAD on my fence. What type sprayer do you recommend? Is a sprayer a good idea? Thanks for any advice you can give me.
You can pump spray the semi-transparent stain but you will need to back brush to ensure an even application.
can i do the second coat of transparent stain 12-24 hours later?
No, second coats need to be applied wet on wet. Once cured it will not take. You can clean and recoat in 6-12 months if needed.
We purchased the semi-transparent stain for our deck. Can this be applied using a sprayer or is using a brush better?
Brush is better.
Thank you for a wonderful product and replying to my questions so fast. I’ve attached pics of the process and when it’s completed. I have a lower deck with a swimming pool to completenext. I can’t wait to have both of the decks matching. Everyone that has come over are very impressed. They think I paid someone to do the work. Feels great doing this my first time and it looking so good.
More pics
Hi! We have a second floor deck 26 x 12ft that needs some love. I’m attaching some pictures. Can you please tell me if we need to strip it and brighten it before staining, or only stripping would be enough? Will power washing work?(And do you know what are those black stains?)
Also, we have railings around the deck and 12 steps of stairs, and 4 poles 8 feet tall (pictures included). How many gallons of solid stain would we need for one coat? As soon as we have your answers, we will be ordering from your website. Thank you!
Use the Stripper to remove as much as you can. No need to brighten, just rinse well. You need two coats of the solid stain and we would need a total sq footage of all wood added up to help with this amount.
Total SF is 700. Do you think I can get away with only one coat? How many gallons do we need to order?
You will need two coats. 5-7 gallons.
a week or so ago I saw a 2.5 gallon jug of semi transparent for sale is that not offered any more? once deck is stripped/ brightened and stained with semi transparent stain how often do you suggest a maintenance coat be applied to do a maintenance coat do you clean and brighten before maintenance coat?
Sorry, but we have never sold the RAD Stain on this site in 2.5-gallon only containers. Clean and brighten every 2-3 years for maintenance coats.
should have asked on earlier post what works better brush or pad for applying semi trans. stain
We like stain pads or the yellow stain brush.
My deck is currently stained with Behr semi-transparent cedar and it’s chipping/peeling all over. If I power wash and sand the failing portions, can I cover the rest with the RAD solid stain or does it all need to come off?
Yes you can cover the stain that is not peeling.
I’m sanding a stained deck back to bare wood. Is there a need to use the stripper? I have already ordered the cleaner, brightener, and stain from RAD.
No need for the stripper.
Thanks! Quick follow-up…which will work better, applying stain with a brush or with a sprayer?
Brush.
Thanks again.
We have a deck that was stained with a Behr semi-transparent deck stain a few years ago. Although it is supposed to be semi-transparent, it appears more opaque and is now chipping and peeling. What’s your best advice for stripping the old stain and refinishing the wood before restaining? I’m sure others have asked this, so I apologize in advance if I am asking a FAQ…
You will have to sand to remove. Strippers will not work on an opaque stain.
I just want to see if the color is what I’m looking for (I already purchased the strip/brighten pack)
To apply a stain sample—does that require the strip/brighten?
It has to be properly prepped to see the color it will be on your deck.
Can you mix the cleaner and brightener in on 5 gal bucket of water?
Yes.
On old wood deck with opaque stain and many now bare spots – do I need the cleaner product before applying stain?
Pressure wash with the stripper. This will help to remove the loose and peeling solid stain. Once done you can cover the rest of the solid stain that is not peeling with a new coat of the RAD Solid Stain.
Awesome – thanks!