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 extremely heavy power sanding and or scraping.
My Pro Tip: 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.
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!


