We understand that everyone needs help with their wood/deck restoration and that not all projects are the same. Different species of wood, the age of wood, and types and brands of previous coatings make it difficult for homeowners to determine what is needed to restore their exterior wood or deck correctly.
We will ask some specific questions and reply to what you will need to do in your restoration process and the appropriate products and amounts to purchase, so it receives the proper prep and treatment required.
In the comment section below, you must include:
- Square Footage of Area to be Restored. See below.
- Type of wood if known:
- Approximate Age of Wood:
- If Applicable, Previous Stain Brand Used and Type (Examples of Type: Transparent, Semi-Transparent, Solid Stain, Oil-Based, Water-Based):
- If Applicable, When was the last time wood was stained:
- Wood Type to be Stained (Deck, House, Fence, etc.):
- Do you have access to a pressure washer:
- Miscellaneous Info:
- *Must Include 1-3 Photos of Restoration Project. There is a link to upload photos in the bottom right corner of the comment area.
How to Calculate Square Footage
Deck Sq. Footage
Flooring Length x width =?
Railing Length x height =?
Steps Width x Depth x #of Steps =?
Add up all 3 for the Total Sq. footage.
Fence Sq. Footage
Length x height =?
Multiply x 2 for both sides = Total Sq. Footage
Coverage Rate for RAD Stains
The specified coverage rate for RAD is 150-200 square feet per gallon for the first coat. Second will apply at 200-300 per gallon. This averages to about 100-125 sq. feet per gallon for 2 coats wet on wet. From this, and from measuring the surface you can calculate how much stain you need. For more aged wood you could easily factor in some extra stain. On newer wood that is still smooth and dense, you probably are not going to use as much.
For maintenance coats you are not going to use near as much stain as you did initially staining bare wood. There are just way too many variables to know the exact coverage rate of RAD for sure. There is really no way of knowing exactly how much stain you will need. It is better to buy more than you need than to not have enough. You can always save left over stain for next time. RAD has a shelf life of 1 year if opened and 3 years unopened as long as the can is properly resealed.
Restore A Deck Stain Application Tips
- Applying RAD Stain Wet on Wet Tips
- Restore-A-Deck Stain and New Wood
- Restore-A-Deck Stain Hot Sun Application
I’m just a regular home owner with a 35 year old deck and I got to tell everyone I did my testing on my deck with about 1/2 dozen stains and deck cleaners— I TRYED THEM ALL but hands down RESTORE A DECK STAINS, stripper,cleaner, and brighter are the best no question about it so for all you people out there who r going to do your deck this is it.
Thanks, Peter!
What is worst case scenario if a rain shower pops up during application? Or shortly after application. It’s been happening even on no rain chance days.
The worst case is if it is ruined, you will have to remove and start over.
These are pics. of the 12 yr. old deck. I hope they come through. I’m no computer whiz.
I have a 12 year old deck that has never had anything applied to it. I just finished power washing for the second time. My reading tells me I need to use the cleaner and brightener before any applications. I want to use a semi transparent stain on deck and railings. Can I sand and fill cracks and knots and use a semi-transparent stain? Will it cover the fillers? Also, my wife would like a two-toned deck, with a different color on the verticles and railings. What would look good with light walnut, my favorite color for the horizontal surface? Our house is light beige with a taupish-tan trim, including on two columns that support the covered deck. My wife rather likes the weathered look following the power wash and does not want anything too red. The deck is only 230 sq. ft. and 14 stairs to the ground.
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You cannot spot sand and wood filler will not work on exterior wood not will it “stain” to blend. Use a solid stain for the rails and a semi-trans for the deck: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/Deck-Cleaning-Reviews-and-Tips/two-toned-decks-with-restore-a-deck-wood-stains.html
Clean and brighten for prep.
Hi, I would like to stain my deck boards and hand rails, but not my spindles. Will the deck cleaner damage the solid stain that is on the spindles?
No, it will not.
Hello –
See picture of gazebo post – Gazebo Kit was purchased and assembled. (manufactured by Yardistry)
1) Wood: Cedar
2) Age: Assembled 1 year ago – nothing has been applied to the factory stain
3) Original Stain: Factory applied / water based (looks to be semi-transparent / flat finish)
Pictures were take the day after I pressure-washed all the wood
Manufacturer suggested applying a waterproof sealer to protect the wood after approximately 6 months.
I would rather apply another coat of of stain. Would this be a good candidate for your product? If yes, which of your stain colors do you think matches best? Can I apply Restore Stain right on top of original stain since it was just pressure-washed or do you recommend additional prep?
Based on the pic’s, would the wood grain still be visible if i apply your semi transparent products?
Any other suggestions or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
Really appreciate your help!!
You would have to strip off the factory stain if you wanted to use the RAD stain. Brighten after: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/order-restore-a-deck/rad-kits-best-price/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit/flypage.tpl.html
how can I order a solid color sample
https://www.restore-a-deck.com/restore-a-deck-wood-stain/restore-a-deck-stain-samples/restore-a-deck-solid-stain-sample/flypage.tpl.html
We had our mahogany (or IPE – not certain which) porch professionally sanded and re-finished last October 2019 with Penofin Hardwood Formula. We were originally planning to just re-coat it this spring but small areas of black mold/mildew have appeared all over so we have decided to strip and refinish it with a different product instead. I have two questions for you. First, will your Restore-A-Deck Stripper remove the Penofin finish? Second, would you recommend also using your Brightner before restaining? Thanks.
Yes, the RAD Stripper will remove it. Yes, you need to brighten after.
Does all pre-existing solid latex stain have to be removed down to bare wood prior to using RAD products if buying similar color? Or just use the 3 step process and we are good to go?
All previous stain needs to be removed if using the RAD semi-transparent stain.
Thanks, but we will be applying the RAD solid stain. Does all existing need to come off? And no matter what we would need the three step process from RAD?
No, it does not need to fully to come off then. Strip off what you can and then spot sand any peeling stain. You can cover the solid stain that is not peeling with the RAD Solid stain.
Hello,
Can you recommend a brush and roller type for each of the three restoration processes: stripping, cleaning and staining.
Thx
You do not use a brush or roller for the prep. You apply the prep with a pump sprayer and then pressure wash off. As for the stain, use a stain pad or brush: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/decktools.html
Only use a roller if you applying a solid stain.
Will the brightner and cleaner have adverse effects in fish? I am treating a deck over a lake.
No. They are eco safe.
Hello, I’m restoring my deck at home. Here is my information:
– 1,310 sq.ft of surface area to be restored (including 10% waste)
– Deck was apparently built in 2005 and I’m in process of removing an opaque stain with a belt sander and an orbit sander (progress photo attached) — stain i believe is about 10 years old (horizontal surfaces are weathered and stain has deteriorated whereas vertical surfaces and low traffic areas are still fully in tact)
– I’m unsure of what wood type exactly (see attached photos, close up of grain, cross section). When I tried pressure washing it off, the wood did tear easily so I stopped that.
– confirming I have access to a pressure washer
*Please note that the sanding process is removing 95% off the old stain, however cracks in wood and screw heads still have remnants which remain (see attached photos for examples of this). Broad photos of the stained areas look like stain is fully removed whereas as the close up photo shows the board has redness throughout as well dark parts of stain in knots, screw heads and cracks. I’m going to do a final pass with the sander to get what I can, but I don’t image I’ll be able to get it all out 100% completely.
Thx, Colin
Any solid stain that is not removed will show through with the RAD Semi-transparent stain. You may need to use the RAD solid stain if you cannot get it all off.
In this case if I used the stripper would that help to remove the last 5%? We would really like to use a semi transparent stain
No, not between the boards.
Not sure if it will or will not remove around the screws, etc.
A couple more items to note:
– See attached photo showing that where the stain has been removed, there is a variation in colour where grey to dark greys are present. I’m showing a covered area that doesn’t seem direct rain.
– Between the deck boards and in fine areas I’ll be using a detail sander which seems to be getting it all off (just want to clarify as the photos currently show stain between deck boards)
Total sq footage to be restored is approx. 320 sq ft. (200 sq ft decking and 120 sq ft of stairs and fascia).
The wood is ipe and is about 17 years old. It has not been stained but has been powerwashed a few times. I just recently powerwashed it after spraying it with a light mix of bleach and water. There appears to be some algae in places but I’m not sure if that is what I’m seeing. One pic shows a circle where the umbrella stand has been sitting for a few years.
Should I use the RAD cleaner and brightener on this deck? I would like to use the Armstrong-Clark hardwood stain to finish this project.
Also, what is the best way to use the cleaner and brightener on the vertical surfaces? it seem like most of
the product would just run off.
Yes, clean and brighten for prep. Apply to verticals with a pump sprayer and then pressure wash off.
do you think the cleaner and brightener will eliminate the circular discoloration where the umbrella stand sat?
Probably not fully as that is water stains deep in the wood grain. It will help some.
i have a 5 year old cedar fence that i treated with Behr penetrating oil wood finish. i understand i need to strip it and then brighten it. it’s pretty faded. Do you think i should use the two additives with your stripper on the fence? Also, for stain, I want to use a water based semi transparent stain and your products are well rated. Do you have a redwood semi transparent color? Finally, i also build a new cedar trellis that i need to stain. Do you recommend that the cedar needs to weather or can i brighten it and stain it? thank you
Yes, use both additives for this. We do not have a Redwood color. Light walnut has a reddish tint to it. The cedar needs to weather: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/Deck-Cleaning-Reviews-and-Tips/restore-a-deck-stain-for-new-wood.html
After stripping and brightening my pine deck, there are a few rough spots (not many). Can I sand these spots by hand (what grit to use) or do I have to use an orbital sander (with which grit)? Understand I have to wait for deck to dry completely before sanding.
Just hand sand those spots. 60-80 grit.
Also will be able to apply RAD semitransparent Dark Walnut even though I tested the deck with Eco Wood? Thank you.
You would have to remove the Eco Wood first. Please send a picture.
Thank you for your fast response and help. Please see photos of the back deck, it rained this morning and as you can tell it needs to be sanded completely as the wood is more worn on the side which sees most traffic. Thank you.
The RAD Stripper/Brightener Kits will remove this.
Hello, before I purchase can you please let me know if your products will work and which to buy, cleaner or stripper for my 6 year old pressure treated deck, 20ft x 10 ft. I recently applied a product called Eco Wood treatment, sold at Home Depot About 2 weeks ago (Canada). Thank you.
I have a pressure treated deck that is 2 years old and unstained. I power washed it last Spring and did not get it stained due to the CONSTANT rain. I have just power washed it today at 4200 PSI. It is clean and the slippery algae on the surface is gone, but I still see green algae in the grain. Will your brightener remove that ? I’m hesitant to stain over algae ! THANKS RANDY
A cleaner or brightener cannot remove anything that is deeply embedded into the wood grain. It cannot come out.
Hi there, I have an old deck that was covered in Rust O Leum Deck Restore. It is flaking off in all areas where the sun hits it, so I have half a deck that looks decent and half that doesn’t. Will the solid stain be able to cover over this? I took a power washer to it, but it struggles to cut through the restore. I would like to cover over it if possible.
No, you cannot apply anything over the Rust-Oleum product. You will have to sand it off 100%
What is the best way to reapply after 2 years?
Less than 2 years ago I stripped an oil sealer, brightened, and applied 2 coats of RAD following instructions. I’m seeing discoloration and some fading in areas that have more sun contact. You can see in the picture how it looks now… I removed the door mat so you can see the 2 year difference. Also, you can see that the two boards that are near the wall have much less discoloration because they are more shaded.
please advise on reapplication. Thank you
Clean and brighten for the prep and then apply another coat.
Wondering the best way to treat my deck before applying a new stain/sealer. Also, if using a wood stripper to remove the old stain, how would I go about stripping the stain with the product on areas hard to reach such as the backs of the railing?
My deck is approx. 400sqft.
Not sure of the type of wood or age (but at least 20 years)
I think the last stain was semi-solid but not sure of brand
The deck was last stained about 8 years ago
I do have access to a pressure washer
Thanks!
Send a picture to help determine the needed prep.
Beginning to worry that the last stain was a solid
Yes, solid stain. You will need to sand to remove it or go with the RAD Solid Stain: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/restore-a-deck-wood-stain/restore-a-deck-solid-stain.html
Last question, if I replace with a solid stain, should I still use a stripper, and if so, should I use the two additives you suggest. Would it be necessary to also follow up with a cleaner? thanks so much for your help.
Just strip off what you can. No need for additives or a cleaner after.
Only one coat for hardwoods like yours.
500′ PT new decking installed 6 months ago. Had cleaned (no brightener) and put down Sherwin-Williams semi-transparent stain. Result came out very splotchy. Possibly my mistake in not waiting long enough for the wood to weather or overapplying the stain. I’ve since stripped the stain (and sanded some spots where the spripper was inadequate). I’d like try the process again (cleaner/brightener), but using a lighter stain. With this wood still be considered new wood and indicate a wet on wet application?
Just one coat not two coats. Wet on wet is two coats.
I’ve got a black locust deck. I wasn’t able to get to the second coat In one day. Can I do it the next day? Anything to consider? Does black locust need a second coat?
If my railing is apporx. 700square feet how much solid stain would I need? do I need to put on 1 or 2 coats? how many gallons total
2 coats, about 5-6 gallons.
I am planning to stain the floor boards semi transparent light walnut. Considering solid stain for railing thinking Espresso, deck is in full sun. do you have any pictures of deck with espresso stain? do you also have one with Brown Oak. please share
We offer samples for testing and that is the best way to see how it looks on your wood: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/restore-a-deck-wood-stain/restore-a-deck-stain-samples.html
can you stain with a solid stain over your semi transparent without stripping?
Yes but pressure wash first.
Is there an expiration date for the effectiveness of the cleaner?
Once mixed, a few hours. In the powdered form, a few years.
Hi. I starting staining spindles your cedar semi transparent stain but now want to use your white solid stain instead. I painted about 20 spindles already. What can I do?
Just use the solid stain over it.
Thank you!
Where can I buy your products in the chicago area?
Online only.
Meant to include the stairs as well.
I have a 405 sq. foot deck that is 15 years old. It’s been treated with TWP, Thompson’s, and likely other treatments before I purchased the house. It was treated with Thompson’s water seal a few times over the last 5 years but hasn’t been sealed in at least 2 years. Looking for recommendations on the best path forward. I do have a pressure washer and have washed the deck recently. There are also some spots where the wood is splintering and likely needs sanding. Not sure how much additional sanding may be necessary. Also curious on the best method to apply the stain and avoid the vertical metal rods.
Use the RAD semi-transparent stain for this. Two coats applied wet on wet using a stain pad or brush: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/restore-a-deck-wood-stain.html
Lighty sand splinter first.
Do I need to strip/clean or brighten first?
It would not hurt to redo the prep with the Cleaner and the Brightener.
Would this be the best purchase in that case and provide enough to cover 2 coats?
Restore-A-Deck Semi-Transparent Wood Stain 5 Gallons and Cleaner/Brightener Combo Kit
Yes, that is correct.
I had to replace 5 boards with new ones on my 25 year old redwood deck. It was last stained five years ago with TWP. Since I should not stain the new boards for a few months and it’s about to get hot here, I will probably wait until fall to stain all of it. Should I strip and clean the old wood now since some of the stain has faded to show bare wood and then clean it and stain it all later or wait to strip/clean when I’m ready to stain? Should I apply a coat of stain now to the bare areas to protect them and then clean it off when I’m ready to stain in the fall?
Strip and clean would be the easiest way. Do it all in Fall.
Any tips for applying stripper, brightener and semi transparent cedar stain on vertical surfaces? I’ll be using your products on my tiny home on wheels which has an all cedar exterior. Thanks in advance!
Use the additives: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/rad-stain-stripper-additives.html
Spray on the prep products, use a stain pad or brush to apply the stain.
Attaching the pictures again
Sorry, it seems that this didn’t attach below my original posting (next one) even though I clicked reply to the message to post the photos. It seems that you are located where I am. Could I pick up an order rather than having it shipped?
Yes.
Amazing! One last quesiton. Do you have a solid white stain that could paint a fence to make it look white picket?
https://www.restore-a-deck.com/restore-a-deck-wood-stain/restore-a-deck-solid-stain.html
It will no ruin the soil. Use the RAD Stripper with both additives: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/rad-stain-stripper-additives.html
Brightener after. Either the TWP or RAD stain would work well.
My deck is right next to some gardens. From reading other posts, I can easily determine that I need to us the RAD stripper to get old Behr stain off that is flaking (pictures attached). I’m concerned that the run-off from the stripper and brightener would ruin the soil so that I am unable to plant things or could run off and kill the things that are already there. What is the safety factor for soil?
Also, I’m in Oakland County, Michigan. Will I be better off using an oil-based paint like the TWP 100 or a water-based paint like the RAD Semi-Translucent?
I have tried calling sales, requested a callback, and heard nothing.
Im planning to strip, brighten, and stain my deck this weekend. I think it might too much for one day. Is it okay to split it over two? Anything to be aware of?
Yes but see this when applying the stain: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/Deck-Cleaning-Reviews-and-Tips/restore-a-deck-stain-hot-sun-application.html
Do I need to use the cleaner if I am going to use the stripper and brightener? Redwood deck with faded 5 year old TWP stain.
No need.
I just finished staining my deck with cedar semi transparent and an unexpected rain storm came through. Now its raining really hard. The rain started about 2 hours after we finished applying the stain. Am I screwed?
You will not know until the rain stops and dries off the deck.
Ok. What’s the worst case scenario? If it looks like the rain damaged the coating can I just let it dry and then apply another coat?
Worse case is to strip and start over. Do not worry about it until it dries.
Hi, I have an 850sqft deck that is approx 5 years old. It was last stained 4 years ago using Sherwin Williams semi-transparent (that acted like a solid). I have sanded the last remnants of that horribly peeling mess and would like to apply another semi-trans. Do i need to clean before brightening, and how many gallons (using a sprayer) should i plan on?
I plan to use a paint pad for the stain, would 10 gallons cover it? Thanks, Paul
Clean and brighten for the last prep. One Cleaner/Brightener kit will be enough. 10 Gallons of the stain would be enough.
How do I get your semi-trans stain off concrete after it has dried?
Try a graffiti remover cleaner from your local paint store and pressure washing.
I would like to remove stains etc from 150+ y.o. carriage house 2nd story floor that is being turned into a home gym. We vacuumed, mopped with TSP but that didn’t get rid of the discoloration. I’m not trying to make the floor look new, but would love to remove stains and spills. I cannot use a power washer nor introduce lots of water, because the floor is above a finished space. I have no idea the specie of wood but need a method and product that will do the job. Please advise someone. Thanks and stay safe.
Our products will not work for inside wood.
Assuming it rains for a few days after I strip the deck how long do I have beforeI would have to re-apply the cleaner ?
You do not need to clean after stripping and brightening the deck and rain will not harm the prep.
I started working on my deck last Sept but it is huge. I’m working on but don’t have a clue when it will finally be finished. Last fall, I stripped stain off the walls on it, but I didn’t do the brightening process cause the weather turned to crap. Can I just go ahead and brighten it soon after I finish cleaning the parts of the deck that did not need stain removed? Also, will the cleaner and brightener take of traces of stain, or should I use more of the stripper? This deck looked so cool when I bought the house, but it is about 2,000 square feet. I hope I live though this! Thanks.
If you still have stain left then you need to strip and then brighten. Brighten all after.
I stained our cedar deck last year prepping with stripper and brightener, to remove the old TWP finish. It didn’t weather great over the winter and I have many bare patches. Do you suggest I strip, brighten and coat again? Any ideas why the finish didn’t take? It’s old wood.
It looks pretty good. Just clean and brighten and apply another coat.
What do you think of using a painting mitt to apply RAD solid stain to the railings? Is the solid stain too thick and the mitt is really only for the semi trans?
It will not work. Too thick.
Doing the rails with RAD Espresso tomorrow. Used RAD cleaner and sanded all loose Behr (garbage) off. A little unsure about the wet application. Should I mist the rails before applying the stain? It will be about 65-70 degrees and partial sun when I do it.
Also, I will be doing a second coat of Desert Taupe on the floor. The first coat was done in June of last year. Can I just use the RAD cleaner with a light power wash and then apply? No misting with water for second coat no matter how hot it is?
Just apply the Espresso to dry wood. As for the DT, use the cleaner and pressure wash. Apply to damp or dry wood. Just one coat as you have a base coat.
The rental place is in disbelief that their floor buffer will work. They say the pads will ” fly off” when being used on a deck because surface is not totally flat. Canyou tell me what type of pad you suggest; stripping? polishing? or ? We are talking about an up right machine that weights about 90 lb and has oscillating pad, right?
They are wrong, we do it all the time. The buffer has a hard gripping block and the pad goes on that. It is not oscillating but goes in a circular. Normal floor buffer.
Thanks!!! Except for fuzzy does this look ready to stain? I don’t like the uneven color but don’t know what else to do. I stripped and brightened.
No picture.
Forgot to share pic
It looks okay. You could try another round of prep but not sure if that will help even it out better.
Stripper pad or polishing pad?
Red or white. Not the coarsest pad.
Ok. Question :earlier I asked what to do after buffing. I was wondering if there would be debris from buffing that needed to be removed before staining.You recc thorough Water rinse . Now I’ve buffed a sample area and don’t see any debris. Do I need to rinse or just proceed to stain?
Rinse as you have some sand dust.
Choice us black or white
White
Just installed a new pressure treated wheel chair ramp. Have an old deck in back plus the house. Want to treat old deck and new ramp to look similar. Suggestions?
See here about new wood: https://www.restore-a-deck.com/Deck-Cleaning-Reviews-and-Tips/restore-a-deck-stain-for-new-wood.html
If you use the RAD solid stain they will match. If you use the semi-transparent stain, the new wood will be lighter in color and you will not be able to have the wood match.
I just wanted to say thank you for your advice. I have cleaned, sanded,buffed and brightened. I thought I had ruined my wood because had lotz of fuzzies. Was sick at heart. Next year it should be a snap!!!! (Because of your expert advice,suggestions)
Stay safe during these uncertain times, and thanks again!
You are welcome!
can RAD be used over Behr semi transparent weather proofing acrylic wood stain/sealer?
No. No stain can go over the Behr. It has to be removed.