Choosing the right deck stain remover is crucial for properly preparing your deck for restaining. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to determine which product will work best for your particular project. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss how deck stains work, the different types of deck stain removers, and provide deck stain remover reviews to help you select the best product for your needs.
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How Do Deck Stains Work?
Before we get into the best stain removers, it’s helpful to understand how deck stains work in the first place. Deck stains are formulated to penetrate into the wood grains to provide protection from water, UV rays, and fungus or mildew growth. This protective barrier allows the natural wood tone to show through while safeguarding the integrity of the wood.
There are three main types of deck stain:
- Oil-based stains contain pigmented oils that soak into the wood and harden to form a protective coating. They provide good penetration and protection.
- Water-based stains use water as the carrier for acrylic-based pigments. They penetrate well and are easier to apply and clean up than oil-based options.
- Semi-transparent stains offer some pigmentation but still allow a good amount of the natural wood grain to show through. They need reapplied every 2-3 years.
Over time, the sun’s UV rays will begin to break down the stain, causing it to fade and lose its protective qualities. Additionally, foot traffic, standing water, and weather exposure can wear away stained deck boards. When this occurs, a thorough cleaning and application of new stain is necessary to restore the deck’s appearance and protection.
How Do Deck Stain Removers Work?
Deck stain removers work by loosening the existing stained finish and separating it from the wood fibers. This allows you to thoroughly clean and remove the old coating so a new layer of stain can adhere and properly penetrate into the wood.
There are two main types of deck stain removers:
- Chemical removers – These use strong chemicals like sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, or trisodium phosphate to react with the stain and cause it to blister and lift from the wood.
- Biodegradable removers – Instead of harsh chemicals, these removers use plant-derived ingredients like soy, orange oil, or bio-enzymatic actions to break down the existing finish.
Both chemical and biodegradable removers come in either liquid or gel/paste forms. Gel removers cling to vertical surfaces better than liquid versions. Paste removers are the thicker, more heavy-duty options best for stubborn stains.
How to Choose the Best Deck Stain Remover
With all the deck stain removers available, it can be difficult to determine the best product for your needs. Here are a few tips on what to look for:
- Wood type – Certain wood types are more absorbent (softwoods like pine) than others (hardwoods like ipe). Make sure to choose a remover formulated for your specific wood.
- Coating type – Check whether your existing stain is oil or water-based. Water-based coats can typically be removed with less harsh chemicals.
- Environmental impact – Biodegradable removers are better for the environment but may require more physical scrubbing than chemical versions.
- Ease of use – Look for a remover that rinses cleanly and doesn’t require extensive neutralizing.
- Performance ratings – Customer reviews can provide helpful insight into how easy and effective a product is.
Additionally, always make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application methods, necessary safety gear, and proper ventilation when using any deck stain remover.
Reviews of the Best Deck Stain Removers
Now that you know what to look for in a good deck stain remover, let’s review some of the top options currently available:
1. Defy Deck Strip
Key Features:
- Biodegradable formula
- Contains no methylene chloride
- Works on oil and latex stains
- Commercial-strength remover
Defy Deck Strip is one of the best biodegradable removers that offers potent stripping power without harsh chemicals. The soy-based formula is safe for the environment and gentle enough for use on wood or composite decks. It works well on both oil and latex stains. Just apply with a paint brush, let sit for 20-30 minutes, then scrub and rinse clean.
2. Corte Clean Composite Deck Cleaner
Key Features:
- Specialty cleaner for composite decks
- Low-odor formula
- Removes mold, mildew, and algae
- Won’t bleach or discolor
Corte Clean is a great choice specifically for composite decking materials like Trex. The mild, low-odor formula cleans and brightens the deck surface without bleaching or damaging it. It also helps remove stubborn mold, mildew, and algae stains. Spray it on and rinse with a hose for easy application. It’s safe for all Trex and other composite decking.
3. Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain Stripper
Key Features:
- For use on all wood types
- Clings to surfaces and penetrates deep
- Liquid concentrate formula
- Low odor and VOC-compliant
Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain Stripper is a top performing, environmentally-responsible remover. The biodegradable formula clings well to wood and can be diluted with water to adjust potency as needed. It’s effective at removing multi-layered oil and latex stains from woods like cedar, redwood, pine, and fir. Rinse with a power washer after use.
4. Krud Kutter Deck Cleaner Concentrate
Key Features:
- Concentrated for heavy-duty cleaning
- Contains no acids, bleach, or phosphates
- Commercial-grade stain remover
- Can be used with a pressure washer
Krud Kutter is a powerful deck cleaner concentrate made for tough grease, dirt, mildew, algae and stain removal. When mixed with water, it can tackle even weathered gray wood on older decks. The water-based formula is safe for wood, concrete, metals, and most surfaces. Rinse thoroughly when done.
5. BEHR Premium Deck Cleaner
Key Features:
- Water-based pH balanced formula
- Removes mildew stains, dirt, and grime
- Prepares deck for staining or sealing
- Won’t discolor wood grain
BEHR Premium Deck Cleaner is a reliable stain remover from a top brand. The pH balanced, water-based formula easily eliminates dirt, mildew, algae and other common deck stains without bleaching the wood. It’s suitable for all types of finished and unfinished wood. Apply with a sprayer, brush, or roller then rinse clean.
How to Use Deck Stain Removers
While each deck stain remover will have specific use directions, here is an overview of the general process:
- Wear protective gear like gloves, eye protection, and old clothes.
- Sweep the deck thoroughly and scrub off loose dirt.
- Wet down any nearby plants and cover delicate vegetation.
- Test the remover on a small inconspicuous area first.
- Apply a thick coat of remover as instructed by the manufacturer.
- Allow remover to sit for the recommended time to penetrate the stain.
- Scrub with a stiff brush or broom to lift the stubborn stain.
- Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. A pressure washer can help accelerate the process.
- Neutralize if required, then allow the deck to fully dry before applying new stain.
Be sure to work in manageable sections, following all safety precautions when using chemical removers. A final light sanding after stripping can help prep the surface for new stain.
Tips for Applying New Deck Stain
Once you’ve thoroughly stripped and cleaned your deck, it’s crucial that the new staining project is done properly for long-lasting protection. Here are some handy application tips:
- Choose a high quality deck stain formulated for your wood type.
- Wait for ideal weather – dry with moderate temperatures between 50-90°F.
- Use an applicator pad, roller, or brush suitable for stains.
- Apply stain in the direction of the wood grain.
- Maintain a wet edge and work in sections to prevent lap marks.
- Allow proper drying time before adding additional coats.
- Apply 2-3 thin coats for best penetration and protection.
- Be sure to cover ends of boards and railing spindles.
Avoid staining in direct sunlight or if rain is forecast. Taking your time to apply the new stain properly will help it cling to the wood and deliver years of protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a deck cleaner and stain remover?
Deck cleaners are designed to remove dirt, grime, mildew stains, and surface growth from weathered deck boards. They clean and prep the wood for new stain. Deck stain removers actually strip away the old stained finish so a new coat can adhere. They are stronger formulas capable of deep penetration.
Can I use household bleach to remove old deck stain?
Bleach is too harsh for most deck boards and can actually damage or discolor the wood. It’s best to avoid bleach and use a deck stain remover formulated specifically for wood surfaces. The chemicals in these strippers are designed to break down the stain for safe removal without bleaching the natural wood tones.
What’s the easiest way to remove deck stain?
The easiest and most effective method is to apply a quality deck stain remover product, allow time for it to soak in and activate, then power wash the boards. The combination of chemical stripper and high-pressure water rinse does the hard work for you. Just be sure to neutralize and/or rinse very thoroughly after using chemical removers.
Can I restain a deck without removing the old stain?
It’s not recommended to apply new stain over old stain, especially if the existing finish is worn, flaky, or compromised. For the new stain to properly adhere and protect, the deck needs to be stripped to bare wood first. Thorough removal also allows for better stain penetration.
How long does it take to strip stain from a deck?
The time it takes depends on the deck’s square footage, wood type, and stain buildup. Allow the remover to sit on the boards for 15-30 minutes before scrubbing. Work in sections of about 50 square feet at a time. Most full deck stripping projects take a full day or weekend to complete.
Conclusion
Removing old failing deck stain is an essential first step before protecting and beautifying your deck with a fresh coat of stain. The right deck stain remover simplifies the process by efficiently and safely stripping away the years of weathered finish so you can achieve ideal results. Compare the top-rated remover options to choose the best fit for your wood deck and project needs.
Be sure to use proper safety precautions, test for effectiveness, and give the remover enough dwell time before scrubbing and pressure washing. With a little labor and the right product, you can successfully transform your faded stained deck back to its former glory.