This post was updated on April 5, 2026
Hi, I am Scott Paul, a leading exterior restoration contractor and business owner with over 30 years of experience in exterior wood cleaning. My Restore-A-Deck Kit review is based on my history as a wood restoration contractor and actual hands-on testing, all designed to present you with the top deck stain choices. See here for more info about me.
Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Kit Update 2026
Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Kit
The Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Kit remains our top performer for the 2026 deck season. It is easy to work with, very cost-effective, and produces great results! Please read this article and post any questions you have in the comment area below. Our newly enhanced website now allows you to upload and post pictures of your exterior wood or deck. This will help us determine the proper prep for your deck using the Restore-A-Deck Cleaner and Wood Brightener Kits.
Below is a YouTube Video Review of the Restore A Deck Prepping kit. This is from an actual consumer and is very informative and helpful.
9.0 Overall Rating Restore-A-Deck Stain Cleaner & Brightener
The Restore-A-Deck Cleaner System is a two-step wood cleaning and brightening kit designed to properly prepare exterior wood before staining. It uses a powdered concentrate formula that is mixed with water, making it both cost-effective and easy to store.
From my experience restoring decks since 1993, proper prep is the most important step in any deck staining project. A system like Restore-A-Deck is designed to remove dirt, grime, and old stain residue while restoring the wood’s natural color and pH balance.
Overall, Restore-A-Deck is one of the better-performing cleaning systems available and is a key step in achieving long-lasting stain results.
Restore-A-Deck is the only product on the market that offers both a Step 1 Deck Cleaner and a Step 2 Deck Brightener in the same kit. Restore-A-Deck comes in a powdered concentrated formula. Each 2 lb container makes 5 liquid gallons. Pour each into a five-gallon container and add water to dissolve the powder concentrate.
🔹 Quick Verdict – Restore-A-Deck Cleaner System
Restore-A-Deck Cleaner System – Quick Review
- Best For: Proper deck prep before staining
- Not Ideal For: Skipping steps or light maintenance cleaning only
- Type: Powdered cleaner and brightener system
- My Overall Rating: 9/10
My Take:
Restore-A-Deck is one of the most effective and consistent deck cleaning systems I have used. It does an excellent job of preparing wood for staining when used correctly.
How I Rated Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Kit
My Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Kit review contains a 5-step process and the final average score. Each step is on a scale of 1-10.
- Removal of Graying and Dirt
- Cost Per Square Foot
- Removal of Old Stain (if applicable)
- Ease of Application
- Final Appearance after Cleaning
- Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Kit Final Score
5-Step Review of Restore-A-Deck Cleaner Kit
1. Removal of Graying, Dirt, Grime: 9
The Restore-A-Deck Step 1 Deck Cleaner did very well at removing general dirt and grime. The deep cleaning formula made breaking down the gray wood cells easy. All mold was also removed. The Step 1 Deck Cleaner did not remove some rust stains from the furniture, but the Step 2 Brightener did.
2. Cost Per Square Foot: 10
The best on the market today. The cost to clean and brighten an average 600-square-foot deck is less than $.07 a foot. Since Restore-A-Deck comes in a powder we like, you only need to mix as much as you need. Very little waste.
3. Removal of Old Stain: N/A
RAD products are designed to clean, not remove, old deck stains. We would presume that they would remove a deck stain if it has deteriorated drastically.
4. Ease of Application: 8
RAD does not come in a liquid. You need to measure 6 oz per gallon of water and mix the entire 2 lb. container into 5 gallons. This product can be applied easily to a garden pump sprayer. We needed to make sure to mix at the correct dosage; otherwise, the powder would not completely dissolve. Testing was done with both scrubbing and pressure washing. Both worked well. Step 2 brightener does not need to be scrubbed, just rinsed with water after 10 minutes.
5. Final Appearance of Cleaning: 9
The IPE wood deck looked brand new after cleaning and drying for 2 days. We would have given this a score of 10 if it was not for a couple of minor water spots that did not come out. These spots looked to be from planter boxes.
Overall Score for Restore-A-Deck Cleaner: 9
Restore-A-Deck is a great and economical product for restoring your deck to like-new condition. We really like that the kits contained both the cleaner and brightener. This was easier than buying the products separately.
Product Information:
Manufacturer: Restore A Deck
Product Type: Powdered Concentrate. Kit contains Step 1 Deck Cleaner and Step 2 Deck Brightener.
Available Sizes: 2 Pound Container Makes 5 Liquid Gallons
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coverage Per Gallon: 100-200 sq. ft
Application Tools: Scrub Brush, Pump Sprayer
Test Deck Stats:
Deck Wood Type: IPE Exotic Hardwood
Deck Square Footage: 500
The condition of the Deck: Heavily grayed with mold/mildew. No previous stain
How Much Product Used:Â RAD 300 Kit. Retails for $64.99
*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Consider that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.
🔹 Pros and Cons – Restore-A-Deck Cleaner & Brightener
Restore-A-Deck Cleaner System – Pros
- Highly effective at removing dirt, grime, and old stain residue
- Brightens wood and restores natural color
- Powdered concentrate makes it cost-effective
- Easy to mix and apply
- Works well on most exterior wood types
Restore-A-Deck Cleaner System – Cons
- Requires proper mixing and application steps
- Must follow with brightener for best results
- Not a one-step process
- Can damage surrounding areas if not properly rinsed
🔹 Best Uses for Restore-A-Deck Cleaner & Brightener
- Prepping wood before staining: Essential step for best results
- Removing graying and weathering: Restores wood appearance
- Cleaning older decks: Prepares surface for new stain
- Stripping light residue from previous coatings: Helps improve absorption
Not Ideal For:
- Skipping prep before staining – this is not optional for best results
- Heavy paint or solid stain removal – may require a stronger stripper
👉 See: Deck Stain for New Wood
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
🔹 Application Tips – Restore-A-Deck Cleaner & Brightener
- Always mix according to instructions
- Apply evenly to damp wood
- Allow proper dwell time for cleaning
- Rinse thoroughly and follow with brightener
👉 How to Prep a Deck
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/best-deck-prep-clean-strip-or-sand-the-deck/
👉 How to Stain a Deck
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-to-stain-a-deck/
🔹 Maintenance & Prep Importance
Proper prep is the foundation of any successful deck staining project.
- Always clean and brighten before staining
- Do not skip the brightening step
- Allow wood to dry completely before applying stain
- Proper prep will improve stain penetration and longevity
From my experience, most stain failures are due to poor prep—not the stain itself.
👉 Deck Cleaning and Brightening
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/cleaning-wood-deck/
🔹 Who Should Use Restore-A-Deck Cleaner?
You should consider Restore-A-Deck if:
- You are preparing a deck for staining
- Your wood is dirty, grayed, or weathered
- You want consistent and reliable prep results
- You are using a penetrating stain system
You may want to consider other options if:
- You need to remove heavy paint or solid coatings
- You are looking for a quick, one-step cleaning solution
👉 Best Deck Stains
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
🔹 FAQs – Restore-A-Deck Cleaner & Brightener
Do you need both cleaner and brightener?
Yes, both steps are required for proper wood prep and best staining results.
How long should you wait before staining after cleaning?
Typically 24–48 hours, depending on weather and drying conditions.
Can this remove old stain?
It can remove light residue but is not designed for heavy stripping.
Is it safe for all wood types?
Yes, when used properly according to instructions.
Can you skip the brightener step?
No, skipping this step can lead to poor stain absorption and uneven results.
How often should you clean a deck before staining?
Every time before applying a new coat of stain.
🔹 Final Thoughts – Restore-A-Deck Cleaner & Brightener
The Restore-A-Deck Cleaner System is one of the better deck prep systems available and plays a critical role in achieving long-lasting stain results. It is effective, cost-efficient, and works well across most wood types.
From my hands-on experience, proper cleaning and brightening is the most important step in any deck staining project. Using a system like this will greatly improve stain performance and longevity.
If you want your stain to perform the way it should, proper prep is not optional—it is required.
An Independent YouTube Customer Review
I have a peeling semi solid Behr product on my deck rail. I plan on sanding it off and then will apply a TWP product. After sanding I plan on using RAD.
1) can I use JUST the Rad Brightener without using the Cleaner?
2) Can I use the Brightener immediately after sanding ?
3) does the Brightener need to be rinsed off after applying?
4) finally, what TWP product do you recommend for a PNW deck rail?
The Deck floor has “TWP 350 g/l max” which has worked out very well
Thank you for taking the time to address my questions. Dylan
1. No. Need both for best results.
2. Prep with both after sanding. Right away is fine.
3. Yes.
4. TWP 100 or 1500 Series.
I intend to use this product to prep a cedar fence for re-staining (current stain is an oil-based semi-transparent penetrating pigmented sealer/stain that was professionally applied 5 years ago). My questions: 1) am I correct to use this product on a previously stained cedar fence (don’t necessarily want to remove existing stain; just want to prep/clean for re-staining); and 2) do I need to protect the arborvitaes that are planted in front of the fence when using this product? Thank You!
1. If switching brands, you will need to strip. Use the Restore A Deck Stripper Kit.
2. Pre wet and rinse any overspray on the plants.
After using RAD cleaner & brightener, what is the best stain or sealer to use?
Try one of these: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
I have two large ceder decks that have always given me fits as far as taking care of them and keeping them looking good. Here in the Pacific Northwest we have a lot more cloudy rainy weather than sunny, which is not the best for outdoor wood.
Over the years it has been a downhill loosing battle using other products to brightem the wood and looking for good stains. The decks have been slowly turning from thier once beautiful ceder color to a gray and weathered looking decks that would just not hold the stain anymore.
I did EXTENSIVE research online, found Restore A Deck and purchased the product.
I used the stripper/cleaner first, my wood turned really dark, almost black…not impressed so far, but, kept to the instructions and then used the wood brightener. HOLY SON OF A GUN!!!!! Like advertised, the wood started lightening up right before my eyes as I sprayed the brightener on. My decks were looking still not like new but really, really nice looking compared to what they looked like before and better than any other product I had ever used on them in the past.
I was doing other chores around the place the rest of the afternoon and went to check out the decks a few hours later and got an even bigger surprise…the wood on the decks had brightened up even more to the point that it looked like I had brand new wood!!!
This product really does what it is advertised to do. If you have an old deck, take a weekend and make it look like new again with RAD. I have never dreamed that my decks could ever look like they do now, without replacing all of the decking.
And now that I have stained the deck, MY God it looks beautiful again. I used the Natural color stain and the ceder decks look just like the first time I stained them with brand new wood years ago.
THIS PRODUCT REALLY WORKS!!!!
Can the restore a deck cleaner and deck brightened be used with PPG Timeless semi-transparent stain?
Yes.
After using RAD on my deck, I am thinking of doing the same with a Cyprus swing I built. Is RAD appropriate to clean Cyprus? If so, should I use it the same way, but not use a finish coat? It is pretty dirty and hangs under an oak tree. Should it be pressure washed? THX
Yes, it will help to prep cyprus. It should be prepped with the RAD and pressure washed.
Apparently my builder allowed a significant amount of metal shavings on my new cedar deck which created a large amount of black spots. What is the best way to remove them and when will the deck be ready for staining.
Use the Cleaner first and then the Brightener. The brightener will remove the black rust spots from the builder.
If I’m staining new wood (ie no pre-existing stain) can I forgo using a pressure washer and just apply, hand scrub and rinse with a garden hose? It would save me a trip to rent one.
Depends on who much if any oxidation you have to remove. Do you have a picture? When was the wood installed?
Installed 2 months ago – rough cedar. No oxidation, a few black spots from excess rain a while back.
To do correctly you will need a pressure washer will using the Restore A Deck. The wood has already started to oxidize frem the sun and that has to be removed. See this for other tips on new wood and stains: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
Hi. I have an IPE deck and had used restore a deck about 3 years ago and Armstrong stain and it looked great.
It was due to get restrained so I used restore a deck cleaner and brightened again yesterday. It seemed to go well (although I had to do the cleaner twice as all the dirt spots didn’t come off after first application) but I woke up this morning and the wood seems to be very bright and a lot of the prior stain is gone. And the wood doesn’t look like it should. It seems to look much brighter with no dark wood colors like after I did it last time.
Is it possible I didn’t get all the brightened off? I never let it dry and it stayed wet and damp the entire time I put it on. And I hosed it down thouroughly several times.
I am really worried i messed up my deck. If somehow I didn’t get all the brightened off will the Armstrong stain still get it back to looking good?
Thanks.
It’s fine. You just cleaned very well. Go ahead and stain.
How does restore a deck work on the green mold/mildew on treated lumber?
It will help to remove it. Apply and pressure wash off.
We will using the Restore A Deck stripper to strip/clean and then retain our cedar hand rails. Do I need to take any special precautions with the black aluminum balusters? Will the deck stain stripper damage these like a painted surface?
Test first on the spindles but we normally never have issues with any reactions.
Are you trying to strip the floor? I doubt a stain stripper will work on it. It looks like a solid stain. Very thick and opaque. Stain strippers will not remove this.
Hey guys, I just purchased Restore-A-Deck for my older deck. I’d been researching cleaners/brighteners for my eucalyptus furniture as well, when I thought why not use the same product on the table when I mix it up for the deck. Would you recommend using the Restore-A-Deck on eucalyptus or teak? Thanks in advance!
It should work just fine.
We have a cedar deck that is old, dirty and the boards have deep ridges in them. I want to sand them smooth before cleaning and staining. Will the stain penetrate the wood after sanding? Should I wait for a period of time after sanding before cleaning and applying the stain?
If you sand too smooth, the stain may not soak into the wood. This could cause premature failure. If you must sand, use no more than 80 grit. Wait a month and clean and brighten for the final prep before applying the stain.
When preparing a deck to be re-stained, is it generally necessary/advisable to sand the deck prior to staining or is it preferred to strictly use a stain striping product and bypass any sanding of the deck? We were planning to lightly sand, power wash and then stain. Thank you.
We rarely sand as sanding can reduce the stain’s ability to soak into the wood grain. We strip and brighten.
I want to re-stain my deck that I stained with Armstrong 3-4 years ago (part of the deck was new then and part very old). I plan to reapply the same Armstrong stain. Do I need to strip if some of the stain has failed (it only seems to have failed on the ‘new’ parts of the deck) or can I just clean and brighten with RAD?
Clean and brighten with the RAD should do the trick.
Thank you. I really appreciate how helpful this whole site is.
Where can you buy restore-a-deck? I couldn’t find it at Menards or Lowes in the Chicagoland area
Check with them directly.
We have about 600 square feet cedar deck, 5 years old. It was originally stained with Sikkens Cetol SRD water based, and restained again 2 years later with the same. We want to change to Defy Extreme water based. We live in coastal NW Washington, waterfront, with NE exposure, and high winds in the winter. The deck is showing need for re-stain. How should I prepare it for the Defy? And what products would you recommend
You will need to remove and that will require stripping. Try the Restore a Deck Stain Stripper (not cleaner) with pressure washing. Use thier brightener after. It does come in a kit.
Thanks! Will do. Have already ordered the kit.
Can you use this on an already stained deck, if you are trying just to get green algae/mold off the deck and leave the stain?
This product is for prepping when reapplying.
I have a 3 year old pressure treated plank deck. It was wet when I installed and I waited a year before using a brightener, then an off the shelf Behr water based product and it looked good. The elements have taken their toll. Mildew, pollen, dirt, sap, droppings, etc. After reading your fine articles, I am leaning towards using the Restore A Deck Cleaner System, followed by an oil based semi-transparent stain. Am I on the right track?
Thanks,
The General
Most likely you will need the Stripper, but post a picture of the deck’s current condition if you can.
per your request. Thanks for your quick response.
Hello, you cannot apply an oil based stain over the Behr and a cleaner will not remove it. Behr is a stubborn stain to remove. Use the stain stripper and pressure wash off as much a you can. Sand the rest off that cannot be stripped. Brighten all wood when the Behr is fully removed.
what would you recommend to clean, brighten and stain a 12-year old ipe covered porch floor? I last stained it 6-7 years ago and it is now gray and splotchy in spots.
The Restore A Deck prepping kit and the Armstrong Clark Stain.
Is this product the best to clean dirt, grime, pollen off of solid stain while leaving solid stain mostly intact? The stain still looks good but deck is dirty. Some touch up to solid stain is needed in spots.
Yes this would work for you.
Since deck has a solid stain already, is brightener still needed after using cleaner. Thanks for the response.
Brightener is not needed.
Is RAD safe to use on a dock? Is it harmful to fish?
It is an evironmentally safe product that is good for docks and marine life.
We have a deck approxymately 24′ x 24′ made with eastern white cedar wood little parts (stairs) of it of white pine. Part of it is made of about 12 years old and some 5 years cedar planks when we rebuilt it after a major renovation. We stained it then (4 years ago) with a new product made by a canadian company (SICO) which is discontinued now. We chose it at the time because we were told that new legislation on VOC in Canada would ban most oil based products like Sikkens. It was a so called ”hybrid” stain. It started to peel and comme off within a few months. We undertook to sand everything after the winter had passed (lots of hardship) and for different reasons never got around to restain it for the next 3 years. It now has weathered quite a bit and would like to stain it this summer. I guess we don’t have to use the stripper anymore ’cause water is readily absorbed and doesn’t pearl.
Our question is, how much of the Restore-a-Deck cleaner & brightener do you think we would need, also is there a stain or oil that can be applied and doesn’t necessarily needs sanding in 2-3 years. I’m looking for a product that wouldn’t show a difference between wornout areas and the ones that are intact. Previously, years ago, we were using Sikkens oil based stains, my problem was that when I reapplied it, the colour would darken with each coat except for the worn out areas where the natural would start to show. I ended out with a deck with different intensities in the color. I was told to use just an tainted oil and I could reapply it to the worn out areas every year or so between retreating the whole deck without showing overlaps. What do you think?
Last question, we used Sikkens, the regular oil based deck stain ( bought before the new legislation) on the front porch. Would the Restore-a-Deck stripper remove it?
The house is in Quebec, Canada and we have long winters (December ’til mid April) with lots of snow.
You will need 1-2 of the Restore A Deck Cleaner/Brightener Kits. The RAD Stripper should remove the Sikkens but depends on which Sikkesn you used. Their “shiny” thick version is not strippable. As for the stain, use an oil based semi-transparent that is allowed in your country. Armstrong Clark or TWP 200 Series.
Can these products come in contact with painted siding or spindles? Safe for plants/Landscaping?
Yes but always prewet and rinse all painted surfaces and landscaping when done.
I just finished restraining my fence. I have some of the Restore-A-Deck cleaner and brightened left. Can I use these to clean my concrete stained patio as prep for a solvent based sealer? I assume a weaker solution; any recommendations?
Yes on the cleaner. The brightener will not have any effect on concrete.
I used the Restore-A-Deck system and it was fantastic! I wasn’t even sure if my deck was in condition to be restored for staining. You can check out my results along with a full step by step video here: https://youtu.be/-Q1mrKbIuXU
Ben, thanks for the comment. Do you mind if we imbedd your video on the review page?
I have a large western red cedar pergola with large rough cut timber members. It's 6 yrs old and was twice heavily stained with SuperDeck Semi-Transparent Stain Oil-Based (2100-2300) cedar color, last time 3 years ago. It is getting gray in areas and most troubling is there is allot of black mildew streaks. I would also like to try a different stain product that is better at mildew resistance (oil or water based if possable to switch at this point). We are in Boise very hot dry full sun summers and wet winters. What combination of products do you recommend? thanks
Start by removing the SuperDeck. Use the Restore A Deck Stripper and pressure washing to remove the SD. After you are done, use the Restore A Deck Brightener to neutralize. As for the stain, the Defy Extreme (water based) and the TWP 100 Series (oil based) seem to do the best with mildew resistance.
Thank you for great response.
Follow-up question, I just need to make sure I get this right:
Because this is "ROUGH-SAWN cedar timbers", how much risk do I have of getting a visually unsightly result as a result of switching to a water based (like Defy Extreme) from the existing oil based semi-transparent SuperDeck which has somewhat of a film coating. Can restore-a-deck stripper via "hand spray/brush and pressure wash" method adequately strip all of it enough to comfortable switch?
I really would like to switch to water based and use this strip method, if it has a high chance of success.
Super Deck in our experince is one of the easier stains to strip. You should get it off. Make sure to neutrlaize with the brightener when done. If you have time, post a before and after picture in our forum of the stripping.
I have a new pressure treated pine fence that has been up for about 4 months now. I'm ready to stain it. What do you recommend for Greensboro, NC to prep and stain? I think at least the pickets are smooth wood. Also, about how much stain? I have about 230 ft and it's between 3'6" and 4' high (curved arch).
Prep with the Restore A Deck Cleaner kits and look at Armstrong Clark. We would need a total sq. footage amount that includes all floors, steps, rails, etc.
The fence is under 1900 sq. ft. (230x4x2).
You would need about 10 gallons for one coat of the AC stain.
Can you tell me how long these products have been on the market, and what is the cleaner and brightener produced with?
I am not sure but at least 10 years. Contact them for chemical makeup.
My deck is near cars. I understand RAD to be mainly a PH thing and not a solvent. Will it be safe to use RAD so close to the paint jobs of the cars?
Probably but not 100% sure.
If you're using the RAD kit as a prep for a maintenance coat of stain should you mix the cleaner at a rate of 2lbs per 5 gallons of water or at a weaker rate to cause less removal of the existing stain. Should the brightener be mixed at a weaker rate also.
Depends on how many years between coats. If just say 1 year, then mix at about half concentration. If going on 2 or more years, mix at regular concentration. Does not matter for the brightener, just the cleaner.
I used the Gemini Restore a Deck Cleaner Step 1 and then the Brightener Step 2. Absolutely amazing results. I am very pleased. The 15yo cedar deck looks more even in color and is ready for the stain. It sprinkled lightly here in the Pacific NW after I used the brightener and am wondering if the rain would have changed the pH of the wood which is what the Brightener does to restore the wood. SHOULD I reapply Step 2? Or can I go ahead and stain deck?
No need to reapply. The rain will not harm the prep.
I used one time wood protector on my deck 4 years ago in natural. I need to do something as it is graying.i plan on cleaning , but wonder if I should use 1time again, as the sealer. Any recommendations?
You cannot apply nothing on top of the One Time. You will need to strip it off if you want to switch brands. Use the Restore A Deck Strippers.
Hi, where can you purchase restore a deck 300 kit? Tried lowes. Local hardware store and aPPG store. Not available.
You can buy it online from their website.
Do you have to use a pressure washer?
What is an alternative method?
You do not have to, but easier and more effective if you do. Heavy scrubbing and rinsing is other option.
I am sanding down to "new wood" so it would seem pressure washing isn't necessary for the cleaner/brightener — correct me if I'm wrong.
Also, on another note, I'm now deciding between the TWP 1500 and Armstrong Clark. Coverage per gallon seems quite different: Armstrong 100-200 sq. ft (not counting railings); TWP 1500 coverage of the same seems to include railings in their online calculator. The inference is that you get more coverage with the TWP.
Not necessary. Coverage does not include railings. You have to add those in separately. We actually find that the AC covers a little better than the TWP.
HI….I stained my fence last year with (TWP 1500 Pecan) and i would like to do a second coat this summer. Do i need the wood brightener with the wood cleaner (restore-a-deck package 600 ) or just the wood cleaner? thanks….
Mario Bergeron
We always use both.
I didn’t think you could add a second coat with TWP unless it was wet on wet?
You can add another coat after the 1st year as long as you prep.
Good to know…Thank you!
Hi,I received my restore a deck kit and TWP 1500 stain. I plan on doing the cleaning today. However,I am unsure if I should hose down the deck first then use my garden sprayer to apply the cleaner then wait 10-15 minutes to finish up with the power washer (1000psi).
You can pre wet the deck slightly before applying.
Would love some advice from you! We built a new deck using cedar last July (2016) in the Milwaukee, WI area, and after cleaning it with this Restore-A-Deck Cleaning System (both steps 1 and 2) we sanded it, and then applied one coat of Woodrich Timber Oil (Brown Sugar color) approximately 4 weeks later. We thought it would be a good idea to apply a second coat of the same stain later this summer (2016). Do you recommend using this same Restore-A-Deck Cleaning System again before applying this 2nd coat later this summer? Or is there a different cleaner to use in this case, or do we really even need to use a cleaner before applying this 2nd coat? Thanks for your advice!
If applying just a few months later, wash with soapy dish water and rinse. All you want to do it remove the dirt.
How about if the 2nd coat is being applied a full 12 months after the 1st coat (including the winter and spring months in between the 2 coats)?
Thank you!
If 12 months later, best to use the Rad Kit.
We just moved into this with a very large wood deck that is 15 years old. It has SW brand Deckscapes advanced waterborne formula on it. The deck is in good shape but chipping. Questions:
Should we use the Restore a Deck Cleaner Kit and power wash it or just use the kit? We will do some scraping where the paint is chipping but we're not going to strip it.
Do we need to stay with the same product (Deckscapes) when we redo the deck? We don't like the color so not sure what can of worms we may open by switching colors. The can indicates this is a stain but it looks like paint on the deck?
Thanks for your help!
If you do not remove the SW, then you will need to apply the same or cover with a solid color stain. Prep by cleaning and pressure washing to remove all the peeling SW that will come off.
Our cedar deck is 9 years old and I sanded it down to remove years stain. Should I apply the wood brightener? Then what do you recommend for stain? Deck is exposed to sun the entire day. I would like something just to seal it leaving the natural wood color.
Clean and brighten after sanding with a RAD kit. You need tint in your stain for UV protection. Look at TWP stains.
I have above deck, will hit hurt plants and stain concrete below?
It should not but make sure to to rinse the plants well when done.
My deck is a mix of old stain and large patches of black mildew stain. I don't know if the old stain is oil or water based (does it matter?). I assume I need both a stripper and cleaner. What stripper do you recommend? Which should I do first, the stripping or the cleaning?
You do not need to clean if you strip. Strip all and then brighten. Try Restore A Deck products.
Quick product review. I bought the combo-pack to clean my one year old unstained pine deck that was very dirty. Step 1, the cleaner, is an average product. I used all the product and had more to clean so I went to a box store and purchased a deck cleaner there. The box store cleaner worked just as well as the Restore-A-Deck cleaner. The product that really impressed me was Step 2, the brightener. I was amazed how it made my deck look. I ran out of the cleaner but I had enough brightener to treat my entire deck. I’m not sure if I would buy the cleaner again but I would definitely buy the brightener. It’s an excellent product. After the deck dries for a few days I'll apply some stain.
I stained my deck with TWP 1500 Dark Oak 1.5 years ago (that was the first stain on a deck that was a few years old). It is starting to look faded and dull, particularly on the horizontal surfaces. Should I just use a cleaner like RAD to try to brighten it up or should I reapply stain on the horizontal surfaces? The deck is treated pine in central MD and gets morning to early afternoon sun.
Prep with the RAD Kits and apply more of the TWP.
i applied Pittsburgh semi transparent stain one half year after cedar deck was bulit peeling off, what do i do to fix it ( HELP )
Try the RAD Stain Stripper. Apply and pressure wash off. Repeat if needed. Brighten the wood after to neutralize.
Who carries this product, where can I buy it in Ontario?
Contact manufacturer for help locating.
Is there a dealer in Dorval,Que.,Canada
I do not think they have dealers in Canada, but best to call them to find out.
Previously stained deck, stain is in good shape but needs another coat,,stained with seem transparent stain, can I use the rad kits to prep deck for staining
If you are staying with the same brand of stain, then you can use the kits for the prep. If you are switching brands, you should use the RAD Stain Stripper followed by the brightener for the prep.
Quick question:
I've stripped my fence with RAD Cleaner. However, I didn't apply the Brightener. Do I still need to do so? Just wet the fence and let it sit for 15-20 min and rinse off?
Thanks!
Yes you should still do it. Spray on and rinse off after 10-20 minutes.
Just used cleaner / brightener kit. 1st time user. Used on cedar deck prox 7 yrs old.
I've used a lot of different cleaners over the years on treated and on cedar decks. This by far is the best I've ever used.
My only regret is that I did not use the stripper. I didn't think I needed to since the deck I worked on has only had clear wood finishes used on it. That was a mistake. It took a lot more scrubbing and power washing to get clean. Next time I will get and use the stripper, do yourself a favor and spend the extra money for the stripper.
Thanks for your review!
I have a cedar deck I built last summer. It is now very faded. I just put some new steps on and can see the difference. Due to the rain that started and never really stopped between finishing the deck and now, I was never able to clean and seal the deck. I had originally thought to use a clear sealer. Will the Restore a Deck system return the wood to its original color where you can see the beautiful grains? If it doesn't, is there anything that does.
It will help to restore the color. Since it has been sitting a year it has also oxidized significantly. This oxidation needs to be removed. The RAD kit will help with this, but you may need to buff the wood as well after the prepping.