Best Deck Stain Reviews Ratings
  • Home
  • Product Reviews
    • Deck Stain Reviews Deck Cleaner Reviews Deck Stain Stripper Reviews Deck Brightener Reviews Deck Resurface Stain Reviews IPE and Hardwood Stain Reviews Solid Color Deck Stain Reviews

      TWP 100 Series Wood and Deck Stain Review…

      Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain Review

      Armstrong Clark Wood Deck Stain Review 2019

      TWP 1500 Wood and Deck Stain Review 2019

      Defy Extreme Stain Review 2019

      Update on Deck Stains for 2019

      How to Spray a Deck Stain

      Staining a New Deck Tips for 2019

      Restore-A-Deck Cleaner System Review

      Gemini Restore-A-Deck Kit Review

      Defy Wood Deck Cleaner Review

      EFC-38 Wood Deck Cleaner Review

      Deck Cleaning Tips

      Bleach vs. Oxygenated Deck Cleaners

      BEHR Premium 2-In-1 Deck Cleaner Review

      Wolman™ DeckBrite™ Wood Cleaner Review

      Restore-A-Deck Stain Stripper Booster @ Thickening Gel Review

      Restore-A-Deck Deck Stain Stripper Review

      Defy Stain Stripper Review

      HD80 Deck Stripper Review

      How to Remove a Deck Stain

      Behr Premium Stain and Finisher Stripper Review

      Why Use a Wood Deck Brightener

      Restore-A-Deck Cleaner System Review

      Defy Wood Brightener Review

      Citralic Wood Brightener Review

      Behr Deckover, Olympic Rescue-It, Rust-Oleum Deck Restore –…

      Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive Review 2019

      Class Action Lawsuit against Rust-Oleum Deck Restore

      Behr Deckover Review

      Rust-Oleum Rock Solid in A day Review

      Rust-Oleum Deck Restore Review Updated 2019

      Olympic Rescue It Review 2019

      Synta (Rust-Oleum) Deck Restore Stain Review

      Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain for Exotic Hardwoods Review

      Armstrong Clark Hardwood Stain Review

      Defy Hardwood Stain Review 2019

      IPE Exotic Hardwood Stain Review 2019

      IPE Staining Instructions

      Hardwood Deck Stain Tips for Ipe

      Hardwood Deck Stains

      Messmers UV Plus for Hardwoods Stain Review

      Restore-A-Deck Solid Color Stain Review

      What are The Best Solid Color Deck Stains

      Defy Extreme Solid Color Stain Review

      Flood Pro Series Solid Color Stain Review

      Behr Premium Solid Color Stain Review

      Cabot Solid Color Stain Review

      Sherwin Williams SuperDeck Solid Color Stain Review

      Why Have a Two-Toned Deck?

  • Deck Staining
    • What is the Best Deck Stain 2019?

      The Best Deck Stains 2019?

      The 6 Best Deck Stain Reviews and Ratings

      Staining A New Deck

      Deck Stains 2019

  • Deck Cleaning
    • Best Deck Cleaners 2019

      Best Deck Prep? Clean, Strip, or Sand the…

      How to Restore Your Deck all in One…

      Why Sanding a Deck Can be an Issue

      How To Sand Your Wood Deck

  • Deck Stripping
    • Best Deck Prep? Clean, Strip, or Sand the…

      How to Restore Your Deck all in One…

      Best Deck Stain Strippers 2019

      Why Sanding a Deck Can be an Issue

      When to use a Deck Stripper vs a…

  • Deck Brightening
    • Best Deck Prep? Clean, Strip, or Sand the…

      How to Restore Your Deck all in One…

      Why Rinse a Wood Brightener with Water?

      What is a Deck Brightener and Why Use…

      How to Blend New and Old Deck Boards

  • Forum
    • Deck Photos
    • Deck Staining Questions
    • Deck Cleaning Questions
    • Deck Stripping Questions
Top Deck Stain Help Articles
What is the Best Deck Stain 2019?
The Best Deck Stains 2019?
The 6 Best Deck Stain Reviews and Ratings
Staining A New Deck
Deck Stains 2019
Update on Deck Stains for 2019
Amazon vs DeckStainHelp.com Reviews
How to Restore Your Deck all in One...
Are Deck Finishes, Stains, Sealers, or Both?
What are The Best Solid Color Deck Stains
  • Home
  • Product Reviews
    • Deck Stain Reviews Deck Cleaner Reviews Deck Stain Stripper Reviews Deck Brightener Reviews Deck Resurface Stain Reviews IPE and Hardwood Stain Reviews Solid Color Deck Stain Reviews

      TWP 100 Series Wood and Deck Stain Review…

      Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain Review

      Armstrong Clark Wood Deck Stain Review 2019

      TWP 1500 Wood and Deck Stain Review 2019

      Defy Extreme Stain Review 2019

      Update on Deck Stains for 2019

      How to Spray a Deck Stain

      Staining a New Deck Tips for 2019

      Restore-A-Deck Cleaner System Review

      Gemini Restore-A-Deck Kit Review

      Defy Wood Deck Cleaner Review

      EFC-38 Wood Deck Cleaner Review

      Deck Cleaning Tips

      Bleach vs. Oxygenated Deck Cleaners

      BEHR Premium 2-In-1 Deck Cleaner Review

      Wolman™ DeckBrite™ Wood Cleaner Review

      Restore-A-Deck Stain Stripper Booster @ Thickening Gel Review

      Restore-A-Deck Deck Stain Stripper Review

      Defy Stain Stripper Review

      HD80 Deck Stripper Review

      How to Remove a Deck Stain

      Behr Premium Stain and Finisher Stripper Review

      Why Use a Wood Deck Brightener

      Restore-A-Deck Cleaner System Review

      Defy Wood Brightener Review

      Citralic Wood Brightener Review

      Behr Deckover, Olympic Rescue-It, Rust-Oleum Deck Restore –…

      Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive Review 2019

      Class Action Lawsuit against Rust-Oleum Deck Restore

      Behr Deckover Review

      Rust-Oleum Rock Solid in A day Review

      Rust-Oleum Deck Restore Review Updated 2019

      Olympic Rescue It Review 2019

      Synta (Rust-Oleum) Deck Restore Stain Review

      Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain for Exotic Hardwoods Review

      Armstrong Clark Hardwood Stain Review

      Defy Hardwood Stain Review 2019

      IPE Exotic Hardwood Stain Review 2019

      IPE Staining Instructions

      Hardwood Deck Stain Tips for Ipe

      Hardwood Deck Stains

      Messmers UV Plus for Hardwoods Stain Review

      Restore-A-Deck Solid Color Stain Review

      What are The Best Solid Color Deck Stains

      Defy Extreme Solid Color Stain Review

      Flood Pro Series Solid Color Stain Review

      Behr Premium Solid Color Stain Review

      Cabot Solid Color Stain Review

      Sherwin Williams SuperDeck Solid Color Stain Review

      Why Have a Two-Toned Deck?

  • Deck Staining
    • What is the Best Deck Stain 2019?

      The Best Deck Stains 2019?

      The 6 Best Deck Stain Reviews and Ratings

      Staining A New Deck

      Deck Stains 2019

  • Deck Cleaning
    • Best Deck Cleaners 2019

      Best Deck Prep? Clean, Strip, or Sand the…

      How to Restore Your Deck all in One…

      Why Sanding a Deck Can be an Issue

      How To Sand Your Wood Deck

  • Deck Stripping
    • Best Deck Prep? Clean, Strip, or Sand the…

      How to Restore Your Deck all in One…

      Best Deck Stain Strippers 2019

      Why Sanding a Deck Can be an Issue

      When to use a Deck Stripper vs a…

  • Deck Brightening
    • Best Deck Prep? Clean, Strip, or Sand the…

      How to Restore Your Deck all in One…

      Why Rinse a Wood Brightener with Water?

      What is a Deck Brightener and Why Use…

      How to Blend New and Old Deck Boards

  • Forum
    • Deck Photos
    • Deck Staining Questions
    • Deck Cleaning Questions
    • Deck Stripping Questions
Best Deck Stain Reviews Ratings
Deck Stain Reviews Ratings Deck Stain Help Articles Deck Stain Reviews Ratings

Deck Stripping – Removing an Old Deck Stain 4.9/5 (58)

by Deck Stain Help 03/05/2019

Update for 2019: Deck Stripping – Removing an Old Deck Stain

Those who are familiar with deck staining are aware of how important each step of the process is, especially the initial prepping that precedes the stain. In this article, we discuss the importance of using a quality deck stain stripper when you have an old coating on your deck you need to remove. We always appreciate your input, so feel free to leave a comment below with pictures of your deck stain projects.

Note: See here if you need to remove a Difficult to Remove Deck or Wood Stain.


Stripping an Old Deck Stain

Failing Deck Stain

When it comes to restoring an older wood deck, it’s extremely important to prep the wood correctly. Not doing so can lead to premature failure of the new deck stain. No matter the brand or cost of a deck stain, it will not last as long as it should if it isn’t applied to a perfectly cleaned and prepped surface.

One of the biggest mistakes DIY homeowners make in cleaning and preparing a wood deck for stain is not removing all remnants of old deck stain. Any failed deck stain that is left on the wood will block the new stain from penetrating the surface properly. The new deck stain will sit on top of the wood instead of diving into it. Deck stains do not adhere to each other well so this causes the newer deck stain to begin flaking and peeling off the deck normally in a year or less. Even if you can’t see any old deck stain but you know there was some on the wood at one time, it’s vitally important to remove it. Splash some water on the wood and see if it absorbs into the wood or if it beads up and sits on top. Beading up would indicate there is some type of old failed stain on the wood that needs to be removed.

To remove old deck stain from the wood you have to use a deck stripper. A quality deck stripper will break up and soften any old stain allowing it to be washed away. Most deck strippers will not remove solid stain or paints if this is the case you may have to sand the old stain to get back down to bare wood again.

Once the deck has been washed with a deck stripper and the old deck stain is gone, it is necessary to brighten the wood using a wood brightener. The deck stripper will darken the wood and raise the pH level. To brighten the wood back to a natural state, and lower the pH to a more acidic level, will restore the appearance and give the new deck stain the best chance of lasting as long as possible.

A properly cleaned and brightened deck should be allowed to dry for several days before a quality deck stain is applied. Taking these measures and using a deck stripper and deck brightener before staining will give you much better and longer lasting results.

Deck Stain Stripping: Deck Stain Stripper Reviews


Please Rate This. You may also post comments or ask questions below.

Deck Stain StrippingDeck Stain Helpwood stain strippersDeck Stain Stripper Reviewsdeck stain removerDeck Stain Stripping 2018Best Deck Stripper 2019Deck Maintenance 20192019 Deck Prepping
559 comments
6
FacebookTwitterGoogle +Pinterest

559
Ask a Question or Post a Review

avatar
 
smilegrinwinkneutralshockunamusedcooloopsrollcryeeklolmadsadexclamationquestionhmmbeg
Photo and Image Files
 
 
 
 
Audio and Video Files
 
 
 
 
avatar
 
smilegrinwinkneutralshockunamusedcooloopsrollcryeeklolmadsadexclamationquestionhmmbeg
Photo and Image Files
 
 
 
 
Audio and Video Files
 
 
 
 
newest oldest
Sue
Sue

Hi, I have just applied 2 coats of Feast Watson Jarrah traditional decking oil to my treated pine deck and hate the colour…far too orange when the sun hits it. Any tips to remove it? Would rather not sand as it is a large deck. I am hoping to stain the deck once the oil’s removed.

Reply
1 month ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Post a picture.

Reply
1 month ago
Brenda
Brenda

I bought a house a year ago with a deck that is partially covered, with an uncovered catwalk that was moldy and in need of replacement. The new boards and new railing have been put in and the deck is now ready to be stripped/cleaned/stained. But I can’t tell if the old stain can be removed with a stain stripper, or if its more like a paint and needs to be sanded off. I plan on using a transparent sealer over the entire deck to keep a natural look, so I want the old wood to look good natural instead of needing to cover it up with another dark stain. Any advice? I’m new to all this and I’m hoping to be able to do it myself.

DECK PICTURE.jpeg
Reply
3 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Looks like you will have to power sand this off.

Reply
3 months ago
Brenda
Brenda

Thanks! Should I rent a drum sander? The paint is also on posts. What type of sander would you recommend for those small spaces?

After reading through some posts, it sounds like you don’t recommend a transparent sealer. I was thinking it was more low maintenance. Sounds like it needs to be reapplied every year- is that true? Can it just be re-applied over the previous sealer? If that is the case, it might be easier than having to sand the entire deck every couple of years. I’m not sure yet what I’ll do.

Reply
3 months ago
Brenda
Brenda

Sorry if this is posted twice but I think my reply didn’t go through.

Do you recommend a drum sander? And what would you recommend for the posts that need to be sanded too?

Reply
3 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

See for tips: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-to-sand-your-wood-deck/

Drum sanding can work. Hand sanders for rails.

Reply
3 months ago
Harley
Harley

I am using a deck paint (not stain) matched with the same color paint on an old deck that I am redoing. What I need to know is how much old paint must I remove before I put the new paint down? I think the other paint on there was latex and I have an oil base paint. I know that I have sanded down to where it is smooth but there is still old paint showing, will that matter if I just paint over it?

Reply
3 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You should be able to paint over it as long as it not peeling.

Reply
3 months ago
Harley
Harley

Thank you very much for the info 👍

Reply
3 months ago
Pete Co
Pete Co

Title: Trying to Fix Mistake of Changing to Water Based Stain
Stained my deck 4 years ago with TWP 1500 Dark Oak. It was beautiful. It needed a recoat. The local pressure washer and deck supply guy recommended I go with a water based stain because all stains with VOC, like TWP, were going to be banned soon. So I got the closest color stain and stripped a small landing deck as a trial. Stripping the TWP was a major job on the 80 sf landing deck and I was not looking forward to that on the big deck (1000 sf).

When I started staining it applied and looked terrible compared to the TWP. After staining 3 boards I stopped to figure out what to do. I decided then to stay with the TWP 1500. That was a couple weeks ago. I still have the 3 boards I stained with the water based stain. I tried a sodium hydroxide stripper but it didn’t work to get the water based stain off. What do I need to use to strip the water based stain before applying the TWP 1500.

Reply
3 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

What brand of stain is it and best to post a picture. BTW, oil-based stains are not going to be banned.

Reply
3 months ago
Pete Co
Pete Co

The stain is a house brand. I do not know who makes it. This is the only description on the bucket that might give a sense of the type of stain it is: “With other Deck and Fence Sealing products, you have to wait for the surface to dry and worry about rain showers. Our stain can be applied to a damp wood surface so you can complete the job the same day. This fast drying wood deck and fence sealer can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed with an airless sprayer.”
Attached are pictures.

Deck Stain 2.jpg
Deck Stain1.jpg
Reply
3 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Strippers will not remove this so power sanding is your only option to remove it.

Reply
3 months ago
peteco
peteco

It may be easier to just replace the boards.

Reply
3 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Sanding would be easier and you wouldn’t have to let the new wood season: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/

Reply
3 months ago
peteco
peteco

It is a house brands. This is the only info that might tell what it is. They told me it is water based. This is on the bucket: “With other Deck and Fence Sealing products, you have to wait for the surface to dry and worry about rain showers. Our stain can be applied to a damp wood surface so you can complete the job the same day. This fast drying wood deck and fence sealer can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed with an airless sprayer. “

Deck Stain 2.jpg
Deck Stain1.jpg
Reply
3 months ago
nhernandez
nhernandez

My deck was built exactly 14 months ago and I did not apply sealer or anything else. The pressure treated wood is still solid and it still looks good . I did pressure wash it with a cleaner about 2wks ago. Now I want to use a semi-transparent stain. Do I need to seal it separately? Or will a sealer/stain combo be enough?? Thanks.

Reply
3 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You cannot seal over a deck stain. Deck stains are sealers as well.

Reply
3 months ago
Linda
Linda

We have a cedar deck that is one year old. Clear sealer was applied when installed, and then another coat of sealer was applied but not immediately after first coat of sealer. Apparently the deck was not cleaned between coats of sealer. Now the deck has mold and large gray areas with obvious peeling sealer. We will need to strip the deck before applying new stain. What are the recommendations for stripper and stain for a cedar deck? Will we need to use a brighter before applying stain, even tho deck is only one year old. Thanks

Reply
4 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Could you post a picture, please? Yes, you will need to remove. Strip and brighten for this.

Reply
4 months ago
Dan
Dan

dark stripes have appeared where stripping overlapped. How are these removed?

Reply
4 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Post a picture.

Reply
4 months ago
Trish
Trish

I bought my house two years ago and the deck is at a point where it needs to be restained. I found a partially used can of Flood CWF-UV Penetrating Wood Finish Cedar in the garage which is what I assume the prior owner used. Will this need to be sanded or will I be able to use a stripper to remove the existing stain?

Reply
4 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Stripping and brightening should work but feel free to post a picture of the deck and its current condition.

Reply
4 months ago
RJH
RJH

I’ve read through some of the questions in this article and understand that you recommend sanding to remove a solid stain (Behr solid wood stain applied 2007). There are areas on my deck that won’t be accessible to a belt or orbital sander. Is it possible to sand blast these areas to remove the old stain?

Reply
4 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You could try but it may tear up the wood.

Reply
4 months ago
Joe
Joe

can u power sand at 80 grit paper a Cedar deck?

Reply
4 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Yes.

Reply
4 months ago
Linda
Linda

We used Pittsburgh Wood concentrate resurfacer approximately 5 years ago on wooden deck and it is now in horrendous shape. Peeling terribly and looks awful. What is best to use to make the deck able to re-stain?

Reply
5 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Post a picture.

Reply
5 months ago
Allen
Allen

I power washed my deck and then sanded with 80 grit, but in the photo it looks like I haven’t gotten it all. The previous owner used Olympic stain, I plan on using the same stuff. At this point, does it look bare enough to just put down the new stain? Or do I keep sanding? It’s pain to get up, and it sounds like stripper won’t work.

20190708_160110 (1).jpg
20190708_160000 (1).jpg
Reply
5 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

If you are using the exact same stain and color, you should be okay to stain. This can be stripped off though.

Reply
5 months ago
Allen
Allen

Thank you. I am considering using Restore a deck stain stripper, would you recommend this to remove the remaining Olympic stain? I also plan to follow it up with a brightener.

Reply
4 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Yes, that should help get it off.

Reply
4 months ago
Kari Collins
Kari Collins

We have a deck that was painted and part of it has some residual paint stuck on (many years old) and we have not been able to scrape it off or get it off with a power washer. We bought the house this way. I don’t know if the other portion of the deck was stained or not, but it does not bead up, as a matter of fact it gets mildew and slick. So, do I need to use the stripper or the cleaner followed by the brightener? And, what sort of sander will work to get the leftover bits of paint up?

Reply
5 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

The stripper will not remove paint. For the other portion that you mentioned, feel free to post a picture.

Reply
5 months ago
Tom
Tom

Hi,
Can I power sand my decking even though it is ridged?

Reply
6 months ago
Tom
Tom

I have recently moved into a house and want to strip and redo the decking. I have no idea what they have used to treat the wood, any ideas from these photos?
I have bought some Ronseal Paint Stripper – will that do the job?
Many thanks
Tom

Reply
6 months ago
Tom
Tom

Photo 1

42A94CB9-F25B-40C9-9948-A3769A36F192.jpeg
Reply
6 months ago
Tom
Tom

Photo 2

Please let me know if you require any more

6626733B-0FB1-4B8D-88FB-E2807B82B580.jpeg
Reply
6 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Looks like a solid stain and that cannot be stripped. You will have to power sand to remove.

Reply
6 months ago
Tom
Tom

Thanks, can you still power sand when the wood is grooved?

Reply
6 months ago
Tom
Tom

Thanks, will power sand be effective even though the wood has lots of grooves?

Reply
6 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Probably not. You may be stuck with another solid stain.

Reply
6 months ago
Tom
Tom

Thanks for the advice – at least I know not to waste my time trying to remove!
Apologies for all the posts, they were not showing before.

Reply
6 months ago
Jesse
Jesse

Just bought our house. Some of the deck is being entirely resurfaced with new wood. Some areas are decent for a few more years. One area had a solid stain on it that looks to be very old. Most of it came off with pressure washing and scrubbing using a deck cleaner. Some areas still need scrubbed some more. See attached photo. I have two issues:

1. We bought a stain/sealer (Olympic Maximum Pearl Gray) and tested it on one support post. We do not like the outcome. I will be using Cabot Australian Timber Oil instead. How can I get this post back to clean again? It was just applied last night and I plan to TRY to strip this tonight. Since this is freshly applied, would a deck stripper get this off pretty easily still?

2. Some areas that did not completely clean from the old solid stain will be scrubbed and pressure washed again. I’m still not sure it will all ever come clean since it’s so old and deeply set in the wood. Since a lot of the stuff that did not come off is up high in the air, I’d love to find a chemical that will remove this so that I don’t have to scrub high stuff dangerously. Any ideas how I could possibly avoid significant sanding efforts?

Any help is appreciated and thanks for all the previous help this site has given me over time. It has been extremely helpful for us!

IMG_5162.jpg
Reply
6 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

1. It is much harder to remove a newly applied stain. No easy way to remove. You may have to sand.
2. Solid stains cannot be stripped effectively or completely Only way to remove will be sanding.

Reply
6 months ago
Jesse
Jesse

UGH….I had a feeling. Thanks for the help!

Reply
6 months ago
Theresa kelly
Theresa kelly

Just had my deck stained on Monday. The guy had taped something to a post and when he pulled it off, yes, it peeled. I can see the post underneath still has the previous stain…actually a little shiny. He was supposed to prep and stain. I could literally peel the whole post. He used Sherwin Williams superdeck. semi solid. What should I do?

F5F276ED-3B62-401D-A123-4F7B25BB8486.jpeg
Reply
6 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Not much you can do besides sanding everything down to the bare wood and starting over.

Reply
6 months ago
Justin
Justin

When you say power sand what grit do you recommend? I’ve been trying to sand mine with an orbital. 60 grit is taking forever. Belt sander isnt very efficient either.

Reply
7 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You need a more powerful machine. Try rent a drum sander. 60-80 grit.

Reply
7 months ago
G.Davis
G.Davis

What is the best solution to use to remove Olympic Rescue It from a deck?

Reply
7 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You will have to power sand to remove the Olympic Rescue-it. A stripper will not work.

Reply
7 months ago
Laurie Allen
Laurie Allen

My deck is about 8 years old pressure treated wood quite large last summer, my contractor cleaned it with Pittsburgh ultra deck cleaner and restained it with Cabot semi-solid redwood stain. now everything is peeling what do we have to do to fix this? I live in Central ohio.Thanks so much for advice.

Reply
8 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Most likely have to power sand this to fix. Feel free to post a picture.

Reply
8 months ago
Laurie Allen
Laurie Allen

Following up had to wait for rain to stop. Two photos today.

IMG_20190408_172254.jpg
IMG_20190408_172359.jpg
Reply
8 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Yes, you will need to power sand this all off to fix.

Reply
8 months ago
Laurie Allen
Laurie Allen

Ok do after power sanding do we have to do anything else to prep?

Reply
8 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Clean and brighten for the final prep.

Reply
8 months ago
Bruno
Bruno

I have just stained my deck with decking oil, and I hate the colour!! Can I remove it

It was thompson timber oil

Reply
8 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

We would need more info. Exact brand name and type of stain that was applied. Pictures of deck and product would help as well.

Reply
8 months ago
Bruno
Bruno

Thompson timber oil

20190323_144553.jpg
20190323_144520.jpg
20190323_144512.jpg
Reply
8 months ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Use the Restore A Deck Stripper and Brightener:

Restore-A-Deck Deck Stain Stripper Review 4.9/5 (58)

Reply
8 months ago
Bruno
Bruno

See pic

20190323_144512.jpg
Reply
8 months ago
Paul
Paul

I am planning on stripping a horrible application of solid arborcoat in the spring as well as replacing some rotting boards. For the boards that are still in good shape – can I strip the arborcoat off and then apply a semi transparent stain (Flood Series) or is it hard to apply stain after a solid coat has been stripped?

Thanks for the advice!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You cannot effectively strip a solid stain. You will need to power sand this to remove. Once fully removed by sanding, your final prep would be a deck cleaner and then a wood brightener.

Reply
11 months ago
Lee Cumming
Lee Cumming

I have just stained my deck with decking oil, and I hate the colour!! Can I remove it??

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

What brand and type of stain was it?

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

What brand and type of stain was it?

Reply
1 year ago
Brian Bishop
Brian Bishop

Bought our house a year ago and the deck stain is wearing out. I assume I have to strip, brighten and then stain, but wanted to double-check. You can see in the pictures that parts of the wood are grayed, while some still appear to have stain on them. In fact, the first picture shows where I had some tape on the deck, and when I pulled it up the stain came off and gray was underneath. I found a couple of Behr products in the shed (Semi-transparent weather proofing all-in-one wood stain and sealer, and transparent weather proofing all-in-one wood finisher), so I assume these are what the previous owner used on the deck. Do I need to strip, brighten and stain, or can I use wood cleaner, brightener and stain? Or, just pressure wash and stain?
Also, how many days of dry weather should there be between prepping the deck and then staining? Is 2 enough?
Thanks in advance!

IMG_0938[1].JPG
IMG_0939[1].JPG
IMG_0940[1].JPG
Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You will need to strip, brighten, and stain. Wait about 48 hours after the prep to stain.

Reply
1 year ago
Brian Bishop
Brian Bishop

One more question: The deck goes right up against the house. If I use Defy’s stripper do I need to put a barrier up to protect the house paint? The directions say to protect surrounding areas, but I assume that means other stained items you don’t want stripped. I just want to be sure. The house was just painted a few months ago with Sherwin Williams SuperPaint.
Thanks again, in advance!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

It does not remove paint. Just rinse well when done.

Reply
1 year ago
Shanna
Shanna

I am so frustrated.
We worked on our porch floor for weeks stripping it with paint stippers, scraping off layers of paint and sanding to get rid of all the stain.
I put the Pittsburgh clear ultra deck sealer on and
It turned it orange, I am livid, the endless hours and money we have spent and this is the result we get.
Sanding will not take the orange color off.
Any suggestions other than freaking out on the company

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Power sanding will remove it and that is the only way.

Reply
1 year ago
Rick Smith
Rick Smith

I had a product called Deck Restore applied about 3 years ago. It is supposed to be put down in two coats .,but was not .Needless to say it is a peeling mess. I started stripping it using a power washer ,but there are sections that don’t want to come up . Is there anything I can treat it with to strip it easier.

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

No. This product will have to be sanded off.

Reply
1 year ago
Bob Parry
Bob Parry

I have a deck that was sealed two years ago…Pittsburgh acrylic oil Clear….but it had an orange tint to it. I wanted to remove and first used Wolman DeckBrite. This did not do a good job so we bought a deck stripper. The question is, do we need to apply another Wood Cleaner and Coating after the stripper or are we good? Right now most of the wood looks brand new though it is over 15 years old.

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

No need to use a cleaner after a stripper. You will need a wood deck brightener though.

Reply
1 year ago
Heather Schmidt
Heather Schmidt

We purchased our home a year ago. It has a 25 year old deck that had a solid stain on it. We replaced several old boards. We sanded it all which took days and then used a deck cleaner. When we were washing off the deck cleaner we noticed the old stain was still peeling in some areas. Do we need to strip it as well or can we just use a brightener and then apply a solid stain? It was a reddish/brown and we are hoping to make it grey. We have invested 40+ hours (1,000 sq. ft. deck) so want to do it right the first time. Thanks for any advice!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You cannot stain over peeling stain so you will need to continue to prep until nothing is peeling. Strip and or sand. No need to use a brightener.

Reply
1 year ago
Heather Schmidt
Heather Schmidt

what do you think is easier, sand or strip? If I strip do I need to sand again? I used a large floor sander on the floor and hand held sander on the rails. Most of it is down to the bare wood but some areas still have small streaks of stain on the floor.

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Strip what you can and then sand if needed.

Reply
1 year ago
cathys
cathys

I have had an accident with this product and want to remove it. Any advice on a stripping product please?

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Any stripper should work.

Reply
1 year ago
Adrian
Adrian

While sanding my deck I discovered 3 boards with damage. Right now the deck is solid 20′ boards. Should I replace the whole length or just sections of the 3 boards? Also once sanded, what is the best oil based stain that has the least amount of color in it? Thanks!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

The whole length. Try Armstrong Clark or TWP Stains.

Reply
1 year ago
Sarah
Sarah

Help! We have a pressure treated deck that’s a few years old and my dear husband took it upon himself to stain it. I ABSOLUTELY HATE the orange looking stain. I just wanted it to remain the same colour and be weather guarded. Can this be stripped off right away? What do you suggest….aside from divorce?? Please help😡

received_10160484697775231.jpeg
received_10160484697405231.jpeg
Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Maybe but depends on the brand of stain?

Reply
1 year ago
Daniel
Daniel

Hello, I have a deck with an unknown prior coating. Not sure when prior homeowner last stained.
My plan is too strip, brighten and stain with Flood Pro Series Solid Cedar.
Do you think it will require sanding as well?
Here are some photos that may help.
Thank you,
Dan

IMG_4348.JPG
IMG_4347.JPG
Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

No need to sand. Strip off what you can leaving any intact stain. The Flood solid stain will cover it.

Reply
1 year ago
Adrian
Adrian

Two years ago I put “Behr Premium semi transparent weatherproofing” on my deck. It looked terribly right from the beginning. Two years later it looks really bad. This is an acrylic stain. What can I use to strip my deck? I would prefer to use a product that can be put on, then hosed off with a pressure washer. Is there such a product? Thanks.

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

No and the Behr stain is not an easy strip. You will need a stripper like the Restore A Deck Stain Stripper and pressure washing to remove. You may need to strip a few times to remove the Behr fully. Brighten the wood after.

Reply
1 year ago
Adrian
Adrian

Thanks for your help. I accept that it will have to be hand sanded. What can I put on it afterwards so that I never have to deal with this again? I want to protect the deck, but I don’t need any additional color (ie stain) or anything – just protection from sun and rain. What would you recommend? Is Thompson’s water seal a good choice?

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You must have color if you want UV protection from the sun. Use one of these: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/

Reply
1 year ago
Jen
Jen

Crazy I have the SAME exact issue. How to get it off?! I have a painter who says he can use a Diamabrush to get it off.
Good luck! UGH sad

Reply
1 year ago
M. J.
M. J.

Should deck be dry before applying deck stripper?

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Does not matter.

Reply
1 year ago
William D. Gowen
William D. Gowen

I have a 6 year old deck with KDAT lumber. It has been stained 3 times – once by the original installer and twice since. The last two times it was stained with Behr solid color All in one stain and sealer. It looks horrible with the stain peeling in dozens of places. Even worse, the expensive KDAT lumber is rotting. Many boards will need replacing. So my question is what to do next? If I sand the deck how do I remove the old stain from the edges of the boards? Is this just a matter of hand sanding all of the spaces between boards? Also, sanding will probably not get down into the cracks that many of the boards have so do I just have to live with red opaque stain in the cracks? I’m attaching some pictures of the stain, the cracks and the deck stain that was used.

Deck rot.JPG
The Best Solid Color Deck Stains
Deck stain.jpg
Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

The only way to fix this is to sand it all off 100% and that will be very hard to do in this scenario. Might want to replace the decking if you can afford it.

Reply
1 year ago
Don
Don

Boards are 13% moisture or so but joints are often 20- 23%. Should I stain or wait for 18% on all areas? Rain forecast for tomorrow! Thanks again!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Yes, you should wait until wood is below 15% for all.

Reply
1 year ago
Tony
Tony

I’m removing old semi transparent stain from my cedar railings. Went the wash and bright route first, took 70% of stain off but now have tough spots remaining. Not against sanding but time consuming and it’ll rain a few times before I can finish Anyhow, if I use stripper is there any concern it’ll stain/strip color off the trex floor decking I have or my new vinyl siding?

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

The strippers should not harm the trex or vinyl.

Reply
1 year ago
Tony
Tony

Thanks for the quick reply. I did the stripper and it did a pretty good job but now I have all this little fibers like hair coming out of the wood. Any suggestions on these? Do I just stain over it?

image.jpg
Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Lightly sand those first.

Reply
1 year ago
Don
Don

Is a staining pad better than a paintbrush for an unstained, 6 year old, pt pine deck? Maybe better for a maintenance coat 1-2 years later? Thanks!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

We always use deck stain pads. Easier, faster, and better coverage.

Reply
1 year ago
Bethany
Bethany

We have recently stripped and sanded our deck, do we need to use a wood neutralizer before staining or does a deck wash/brightner act as the same thing?

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You want a deck brightener to help open the pores of the wood after sanding.

Reply
1 year ago
Doris
Doris

Does the deck have to be dry before using the stripper?

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

I can be damp wood or dry.

Reply
1 year ago
Tom
Tom

We just applied a semi transparent stain on our deck last season. We live in Michigan. Is it too soon to strip the stain off? My wife does not like the color, but it is still in great shape.

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Depends on the brand but it should come off.

Reply
1 year ago
Laura
Laura

I have a five year old cedar deck. It has gone from a water sealer to a ready seal oil stain(worst ever so oily). There has never been a proper prep. So I have sanded with a big floor type sander. Next I cleaned with a deck cleaner and scrubbed. Surprised that after sanding a lot of oil cane up while scrubbing. So today I want to strip and then brighten. Is this order okay? I want to strip because there are a few boards that are not absorbing the water. Should I strip the whole deck? I’m going with TWP 100. Thanks! I love your site.

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Agree on the Ready Seal. Never understood why anyone likes it?

Yes you can strip if needed again. Strip all and brighten all.

Reply
1 year ago
Laura
Laura

Thank you!!! Your guys have helped a single lady figure things out. Can I just rinse off stripper with hose? I don’t have a power washer. Can a apply brightner as soon as I am done rinsing off stripper? Lastly do I need to scrub stripper of can I just rinse off.

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You cannot just rinse a stripper. Pressure washing is needed.

Reply
1 year ago
George Paul
George Paul

I have power washed off as much as possible. Is there a stripper that is pet friendly? What stain would you recommend for a redwood color?

1E9FF2E0-36A2-4532-BF47-AFF1CF4E9739.jpeg
F708EE70-F172-4B62-A367-F22D57877EEE.jpeg
1B3B0122-C17B-444B-AF99-A738D029921C.jpeg
Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

You cannot strip this coating. It is multiple layers of a solid stain or paint. You will have to power sand this to remove it.

Reply
1 year ago
George Paul
George Paul

I’ve read through the comments and although not ideal, if I go with another solid stain what are your recommendations?

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Flood Solid Color Deck Stains.

Reply
1 year ago
George Paul
George Paul

I have read through the comments, although not ideal if I go with a solid stain again what would you recommend?

Reply
1 year ago
Steve
Steve

I have a mahogany deck that was stained with Duckback Superdeck Exotic Hardwood Stain. I sanded it down to bare wood, and plan to re-stain with a different hardwood stain–Armstrong Clark or Defy based on your reviews). Also, which do you recommend for mahogany, the Armstrong or the Defy.
Since I sanded it thoroughly, do I need to use a cleaner and/or brightener since I did not use a stripper?
Thanks!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Using a cleaner and a brightener will help the stain soak in better. Try the Defy Hardwood Stains.

Reply
1 year ago
Steve
Steve

Thanks. What color would you recommend for Mahogany? I’d like to keep the natural look of the wood as much as possible. The Defy Hardwood stain comes in Cedar Tone, Natural Pine and Light Walnut.

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Natural Pine.

Reply
1 year ago
Drew
Drew

I just stripped and brightened my deck. I’m not sure what the previous owner used for stain, and there wan’t much left on the surface, so I decided to use a stripper to be safe. I power washed prior to stripping and then again to rinse off the residue and later to rinse off the brightener. Everything looks pretty good but there are areas on the deck planks that look like the surface wood fiber broke down. It looks fuzzy, almost like felt. Can I make it right by sanding? Anything else I need to do? Pic attached. Thanks. Very helpful website!

IMG_7732.jpg
Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

See this for tips: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/wood-fuzzies-furring-on-deck/

Reply
1 year ago
Don
Don

Is it okay to lightly sand any fuzzies after brightening? Or best to do after sanding and before brightening? Don’t want to close wood pores or add more fuzzies when sanding after brightening. Thanks again!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Do if before.

Reply
1 year ago
Don
Don

My 6 year old pt pine deck is about 384 sq. feet and 2 feet high. I stained last spring which was really wet. (Maybe should have used a moisture meter.) Cleaned, sanded and gambled on BM semi-solid. Oops! (The semi-transparent just did not provide the colour we desired.) The deck is boarded on all 3 sides by 3 boards to keep most of the critters out. There ‘s about 1/4 inch gap between the deck boards. Would it be wise to drill air holes in the boards or remove them altogether? All 3 sides or 2 sides? Could remove 2 boards on all sides since the top side boards are facer/structural? boards. 2 sides of the deck are wrapped in bushes; no railings. If I were to drill holes, how large should they be? Thank a lot!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

We would not drill holes. Remove 1-2 boards from all sides to allow the airflow.

Reply
1 year ago
Don
Don

Yeah, the semi-solid BM peeled. Maybe the lack of air flow was the issue? AC semi-transparent looks promising. Thank you!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Actually, it is just not a very good product. https://www.deckstainhelp.com/tag/benjamin-moore-arborcoat/

You will have to sand to fix and then go with a penetrating stain. https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/

Reply
1 year ago
Don
Don

Forgot to mention there is white stone under deck and about 18 inches of space. Same advice applies? (Remove 2 boards on all sides.) Thank you!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Maybe just one. Feel free to post a picture.

Reply
1 year ago
Don
Don

Don’s deck. Re. Ventilation issue. Thanks!

3E9D91B9-C97A-4A52-9A61-B44DA459BD5D.jpeg
03346F89-58D0-4DBC-96A9-295400055237.jpeg
EFBCC5FF-F982-4DA6-9A46-942C454DB387.jpeg
Reply
1 year ago
Don
Don

Don’s deck/ventilation issue. Thanks!

BCA90708-8028-4EE9-9839-C706CF662BFA.jpeg
13893620-CCB3-4A8B-A331-C4874E817B53.jpeg
03E7D696-B436-46BD-BB61-F6B601A46911.jpeg
Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Remove the bottom two boards.

Reply
1 year ago
Kim
Kim

I want to remove semi transparent deck paint that had already started to peel off. Can you tell me the best product and way to do this please? Thanks!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

What brand of stain is on the wood? Pictures would help.

Reply
1 year ago
Don
Don

Do I need to clean wood that was cleaned and sanded last spring? Will be lightly sanded again and brightened. Then a semi-transparent stain. Probably AC. Thx a lot!

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

Clean and brighten is the correct prep. No need to sand.

Reply
1 year ago
Judie
Judie

Can the stripper be left in the sprayer overnight?

Reply
1 year ago
Deck Stain Help
Deck Stain Help

It should be okay. Release the pressure on the sprayer.

Reply
1 year ago
Judie
Judie

Thanks😄

Reply
1 year ago

Ask Deck Help Questions & Post Product Reviews!

We Would Love to Hear From You!

Please post a review in the Consumer Star Ratings below each Article.

The Comment Area Below the Articles are for in-depth reviews and any questions you may have on each topic. You may post pictures here as well.

Top Deck Staining Articles 2019
Staining A New Deck

The Best Deck Stains

Top Current Ratings for 2019

Top 6 Deck Stain Reviews

Top Oil-Based Stain Ratings
1. TWP 100 Series
2. Armstrong Clark Wood Stain
3. TWP 1500 Series

Top Water-Based Stain Ratings
1. Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain
2. Defy Extreme Stain
3. Defy Hardwood/Cedar Stain

Top Solid-Color Stain Ratings
1. Restore-A-Deck Solid Stain
2. Defy Extreme Solid Stain
3. Flood Pro Series Solid Stain

...See All Deck Stain Reviews

Deck Resurface Products
...Read Articles and Reviews on the Deck Restore Type Products: Deck Restore, Behr Deckover, Olympic Rescue It, Deck Revive, etc

Top IPE Stain Ratings
...See IPE Stain Reviews

The Worst Deck Stain Ratings
1. Behr Premium Wood Stain
2. Sherwin Williams Deckscapes
3. Benjamin Moore Arbor Coat
...See All Deck Stain Reviews

Top Deck Cleaner Ratings
1. Restore-A-Deck
2. Gemini Restore Deck
3. Defy Timberwash Cleaner

Top Stain Stripper Ratings
1. Restore-A-Deck Stripper
2. Defy Stain Stripper
Deck Stain Help Stats
as of Spring 2019

  • 48,000+ Questions, Answers, and Consumer Product Reviews
  • 24,500+ Contributors
  • 240+ Help Articles and Reviews
  • 5100+ Forum Help Posts
  • 7200+ Consumer Star Ratings

Find Product Sites?

Manufacturers and Websites:
...See All Product Websites

Help Questions & Reviews

Over 48,000 Deck Questions & Answers


Top Q&A Articles

18423

What is the Best Deck Stain 2019?

Update for 2019 on What is the Best Deck Stain ...
  • Deck Stain Help
  • 06/12/2019

6332

The Best Deck Stains 2019?

Armstrong Clark in Rustic Brown Update The Best Deck Stains ...
  • Deck Stain Help
  • 09/15/2019

3122

Staining A New Deck

Update Staining New Decks in 2019 DeckStainHelp.com has become the ...
  • Deck Stain Help
  • 03/03/2019

2012

Class Action Lawsuit against Rust-Oleum Deck Restore

Rust-Oleum Deck Restore Update 2019 Since the article was first ...
  • Deck Stain Help
  • 03/06/2019

1113

Deck Stains 2019

Update on Deck Stain for 2019 Please read this article ...
  • Deck Stain Help
  • 04/30/2019


Latest Comments

Deck Stain Help
Why Sanding a Deck Can be an Issue
12/15/2019 by Deck Stain Help
You would have to sand all evenly so the stain ...

Deck Stain Help
What is the Best Deck Stain 2019?
12/15/2019 by Deck Stain Help
Try the Restore A Deck products for the prep.

Why Sanding a Deck Can be an Issue
12/13/2019 by Toni
It’s me again😄 I stripped and brightened my cedar deck. ...

What is the Best Deck Stain 2019?
12/13/2019 by Felix
Thank you so much! And what product would you recommend ...

Deck Stain Help
Can You Apply a Clear Sealer or Polyurethane over a Deck Stain?
12/13/2019 by Deck Stain Help
Sorry but you cannot apply a sealer or any coating ...

Can You Apply a Clear Sealer or Polyurethane over a Deck Stain?
12/12/2019 by John
I recently had a patio cover built with pressure treated ...

Deck Stain Help
What is the Best Deck Stain 2019?
12/12/2019 by Deck Stain Help
You could use the TO in a month or so ...

Recent Forum Posts

  • RE: New Deck

    You will most likely have to strip it next year, let th...

    By Deck Stain Help, 2 weeks ago

  • New Deck

    Live in British Columba,Canada. Having a new red cedar ...

    By Brombie, 3 weeks ago

  • RE: Custom Tint Stain

    Post a picture of the current condition.

    By Deck Stain Help, 4 weeks ago

  • RE: Custom Tint Stain

    Any suggestions????

    By tvwav, 4 weeks ago

  • RE: Custom Tint Stain

    Sorry, but there are not any oil-based stains left that...

    By Deck Stain Help, 4 weeks ago

deck stains TWP Wood Stain Defy Extreme Stain Wolman Deck Stains Armstrong Clark Deck Stains Stain Defy Epoxy Stain Best Deck Stains Messmers UV Plus for Hardwoods Deck Cleaners Deck Stain Help deck stain failure Wood Deck Brightening Deck Brighteners TWP 100 Series Deck Stain Stripping prepping your deck Hardwood Stains Cabot Deck Stains Ipe Stain Restore A Deck Cleaners wood stain strippers Penofin Deck Stain Penofin Exotic Hardwood Stain Defy Deck Stain TWP Deck Stain TWP 1500 Series Messmers Deck Stain TWP Preservative Defy Hardwood Stain

Follow Us Facebook

DeckStainHelp.com Facebook

Top Stain Reviews

  • TWP 100 Series Wood and Deck Stain Review 2019

  • Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain Review

  • Armstrong Clark Wood Deck Stain Review 2019

  • TWP 1500 Wood and Deck Stain Review 2019

DeckStainHelp.com

Disclaimer

This is first and foremost a help site from our experience as wood restoration contractors.

All stain and prepping manufacturer directions were followed with our reviews and ratings.

We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take in consideration that wood and deck stain results may differ due to prepping procedures, different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, natural weathering, etc.

  • Facebook
Footer Logo

Copyright www.deckstainhelp.com 2019 All Rights Reserved. DeckStainHelp.com Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Contributors


Back To Top
wpDiscuz
You are going to send email to

Move Comment