How To Remove Rust-Oleum Deck Restore 4.8/5 (4)

This post was updated on February 17, 2025

Can You Strip Rust-Oleum Deck Restore?

The short answer is no—Rust-Oleum Deck Restore cannot be chemically stripped. The only effective way to remove this thick deck resurface coating is through power sanding and scraping.

Some homeowners have found success using the Diamabrush Wood Coating Removal Tool, a specialized grinder attachment designed to strip stubborn coatings from wood surfaces. If sanding and grinding fail to remove all the product, you may be forced to replace the wood altogether.

Common Myths: Boiling Water Won’t Work

Many people ask about using boiling water to strip Rust-Oleum Deck Restore, but this method does not work. Due to the thick, textured nature of this coating, heat and chemical removers are ineffective.

Applies to Other Resurfacing Products

The same removal challenges apply to similar deck resurfacing coatings, including:

• Behr Deckover
• Cabot Deck Correct
• Olympic Rescue-It

These products create a thick, bonded layer over wood surfaces, making them nearly impossible to strip chemically.

Rust 10X Deck Boards.JPG

Additional Information

• Rust-Oleum Deck Restore and Rust-Oleum Rock Solid are essentially the same product. After settling a lawsuit, Rust-Oleum rebranded Deck Restore under the Rock Solid name.
• If you’re dealing with peeling or failed application, check out our [Rust-Oleum Deck Restore/Rock Solid Review] for more details.
• Class action lawsuit Rust-Oleum Deck Restore
• Rust-Oleum Deck Restore/Rock Solid Review

Have a deck stain or resurfacing question?

Drop your questions in the comments below—we’re here to help!

Scott Paul ~ Restoring Wood & Decks Since 1993 Owner

As an article and comment contributor to the site, Scott has been around the pressure washing industry since attending college. In 1993 he started his first company called Oakland Pressure Wash specializing in exterior pressure washing and deck staining. That company evolved into OPW L.L.C. shortly thereafter concentrating more on exterior wood and deck restoration. Scott and his Deck Cleaning Michigan company have restored over 10,000 decks in the Metro Detroit area since the early years. He has become an authority in the deck restoration industry and has contributed to numerous wood restoration forums and informative sites. All the products he suggests through this site are sold through online sites and in retail stores, allowing the consumer to choose their own means of purchase. Scott’s eCommerce sites do sell many top brands he endorses and if you appreciate any of the help he has offered then feel free to purchase from one of them.

See Full Bio