However if you have no idea if the stain on your deck was water based or oil based you will need to perform a quick test.
What can i use to clean my deck before staining.
This guide shows you the vital details of deck cleaning and staining.
If your deck isn t brand new always use a cleaner before applying finish.
Let your deck dry naturally and completely in the sun s rays before redecorating it.
To test the stain.
Before you apply stain make sure the surface is clean no dust dirt wood fibers or grease dry and free from mildew.
Cleaning the deck also gives you the opportunity to check the wood for loose nails or rough spots that could cause tripping or splinters.
Holding the nozzle too close can gouge a hole in your deck.
If your deck has visible mildew stains add 1 cup of.
Furthermore since dish soap is safe enough for your delicate dishes it will not harm your deck s stain or the surrounding plant life especially if you look for a soap that is biodegradable.
Water based stains need to be stripped off before you apply a new finish while oil based stains can be recoated after you use a deck cleaner.
Cleaning your wooden deck is part of its annual maintenance.
Apply a small amount of deck stripper to a small area on.
To use the pressure washer to clean your deck read and follow the manufacturer s instructions to avoid damaging your deck or the equipment.
Use the fan tip and spray at an angle leaving two or more feet between the nozzle and the deck.
Thoroughly sweep the deck to remove all leaves and other debris.
Do you need to use a power washer before staining a deck.
Allow to dry for 24 hours then sand the surface with between a 60 to 150 grit sandpaper or sanding disk.
Then wash the deck using a power washer to scrub the surface clean.
When a surface is not clean stains and other finishes have trouble sticking and may end up peeling.
A wood deck cleaner can help remove dirt nail stains algae and mildew.
The same product you use to keep your dishes cleaned can also remove dirt dust and grease from your deck.
Lack of preparation is the most common reason why deck stains and sealers fail so don t skip this very important step.
Knowing how to clean a deck before staining helps ensure that your experience with deck preservation is a smooth one.
When you re comfortable with what to use to clean deck before staining the staining process will be painless.