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 4 year old deck with treated lumber that I never sealed or stained. Finally, this year I am sealing it. As you can imagine it was extremely weathered and dirty. I spent about 8 hours power washing the entire deck. As you can see it still has some dirt, and silvery, gray “blemishes” on it. I was going to start sanding with a belt sander, and/or orbital sander. But after reading about RAD, and watching the video, I am thinking that all I need to do is clean and brighten with RAD to restore the wood to its near natural state. Do you agree? If so, do I need to do anything else, like sanding, etc.? Or can I just go ahead and apply sealer? Thanks
Clean and brighten while pressure washing should remove this graying.
Live in Upper SC. Have stained deck ( maybe 5-8 yrs old?) with Cabot semi transparent and 2 yrs later restrained with Behr (last yr). It is a mess. Now trying to clean, then plan to sand before restaining. Stain is peeling up, but hard to to remove with pressure washer.. what is best thing to do to remove. Our worker does not want to sand if peeling since it will gum up sand paper. Sorry pictures are not better. Contractor pressure washed and scrubbed with a deck refinisher.
Then what stain is recommended. Open deck, most of it is sunny all day. Gets mildew though.
Use a stripper to remove as much as you can and then sand the rest off. Brightener after.
Thank you. What will brighter do? Which one? Also what should I use for stain?
I want pretty natural or light.
See this: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-is-a-deck-brightener-and-why-use-one/
Try the TWP 100 Series.
Hi. Any idea how long does it take to be delivered in Toronto (Canada)?
Thanks
You would have to ask them directly.
We built our deck in 2018. We hired a company to stain it for us in 2019 and we bought the restore a deck products. They used the cleaner and brightener on it. However it looks awful this year. I have plenty of stain left and want to stain it myself this year. I
Based on what I read i just need to use the cleaner on it before I stain. Can you please look at the pictures and tell me if that sounds right or do I need to use the stripper too?
Just the cleaner.
I am re-staining my top deck with the same solid color stain that was on it previously. I replaced boards on the lower deck with Pressure treated deck boards and plan on using the same solid color stain as the top deck. Do I need to do anything different with the 2 decks to prep it for staining.
You have to let the new wood weather and prep: https://www.twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
I cant seem to find an answer. My steps and deck have turned black but they are not stained, They are painted with deck paint. I paint them every couple years. Would this product work the same way as a stained deck?
Thank you in advance.
Post a picture
I dont know if the previous owner used pressure treated lumber. Im thinking not.
That looks like mildew. Try bleach to kill it.
Thank you.
I have a 5 year old pine roof that I need to restain. This stain is from the builder. It is dull with no sheen at all. I am not sure exactly what is on it. Water does not bead on it. I would like to use the RAD dark walnut semi transparent. Can I use a pressure washer, cleaner, and brightener on this? Again I think the dark walnut is very close to this stain so I am not trying to drastically change the color. There is no peeling just some wearing. Thank you.
No, you cannot apply a different brand of stain over this coating so it must be removed first.
Thank you.
1. Would you recommend just the stripper without additives? This was only stained once about 5 years ago.
2.My plan is to use the RAD semi transparent dark walnut stain after. Do you see any issues with that plan?
3. Do you recommend scrubbing using the stripper or just letting the product sit and then powerwashing off?
Thank you for the help!
1. The Gel will help with this.
2. No.
3. Dwell then pressure wash off.
I am told that my 15 year old deck was originally stained with a silicone stain. About 4-5 years ago it was pressure washed and restained with Sherwin Williams water based clear stain. It started coming up almost immediately in traffic areas and has since worn away. It stayed down for the most part in non traffic areas, but I assume needs to be removed with a stain remover then brightener? Also, would an oil based or water based stain be best? Thanks!
Need pictures for prep help. It does need to be stripped or sanded.
The cleaning system has good reviews but is their stain any good?
Yes: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-wood-stain-review/
I stained about 4 years ago with twp 100 series, it’s definitely time to restain. What should I use to prep? Both Restore a deck products or just one?
Use both.
Our deck was stained with Thompson Water Seal about 3 years ago. Can I clean the deck with Restore A Deck. and if so will it be alright to stain the deck with new color.
Clear or a stain color? Are you using the same brand and color as last time? That would determine the proper way to prep.
Is the ‘Restore a deck’ product available in Australia ?
No, it is not according to their website.
Is it nessasary to use a cleaner on a new redwood fence prior to applying a sealer ?
That would depend on the wood type, when installed, etc. See this for tips: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
What if ur to treat a new fence is it nessasary to use a cleaner before sealing the fence ?
My deck was stained with AC stain 2 years ago but has accumulated mildew and algae since then. Will using the the Restore-A-Deck cleaner and brightener end up removing that stain from 2 years ago? I’m not really wanting to have to stain it again so soon.
The RAD is used only when recoating. At this point, you have to do it every 2-3 years anyhow. Just prep and stain in the Spring.
Which store sells it?
You would have to check with them directly.
Will this combo of cleaner and brightened damage black aluminum painted pickets?
It should not.
I recently restained my deck and I noticed that (not surprisingly) a spot that needed to be sanded looks way better than the rest of the deck. So much so that I think I’d like to go ahead and attempt to make the whole deck look like this spot. Is this a product I could potentially use to avoid needing to sand the entire deck?
No. You would have to remove the current stain first.
I have a cedar deck that I stained this past spring using Sikkens (sico proluxe) srd stain.
Prior to staining, I used RAD cleaner and brightener to remove the greying and oxidation from weathering. It worked amazingly to bring the wood back to its natural colour.
I had some fuzzies but they easily knocked down with some 80 grit, I cleaned again to remove the dust and then stained when dry.
If I were to do a maintenance coat using the same stain, would I need to clean and brighten again with RAD or, could I simply clean with plain water, let dry and apply the same brand of stain over existing stain?
No need to strip the current stain?
Would RAD cleaner and brightener negatively affect the stain that already there?
Thanks,
Frank
You can clean and brighten with RAD for prep of reapplication. No need to strip.
What effect would the cleaner and brightener have on the current stain, if any?
It preps it for recoating so it may thin it or possibly even remove some of it.
I power washed my mahogany porch (it’s a covered front porch that’s exposed to some rain). It previously hadn’t been washed or treated for at least 6 years. My goal is to get it back to a nice reddish mahogany natural color. I was hoping to use the rustic TWP 1500.
Some of the boards are slightly cupped. When I tested with a random orbital sander the edges got more sanded that the middle. Do I need to sand? Or can I just use the cleaner and brightened, then the TWP?
I’m hoping to get the old mahogany wood to look somewhat like the newly installed Red Balau. Both are shown in the photo. The Red Balau isn’t treated yet – it was just installed.
Would love advice on whether I need to sand and if I should use this kit or Gemini restore a deck. Can I use the cleaner/brightener right after sanding? What color TWP should I put on Red Balau if I’m using rustic on the old mahogany?
Thank you!
No need to sand. Clean and brighten for prep. Any color you like will work. The Rustic will enhance the grain giving it a rich appearance.
Thank you! If I’m using TWP 1500 should I use Gemini Restore or the one on this page?
Thanks again!
Doesn’t matter.
Can you use RAD cleaner and brightener and then use Defy Extreme Stain, or do you need to use Defy’s cleaner before using Defy stain? Many thanks.
You can use the RAD prep products.
Does power washing alone (well I used a crappy cleaner too) strip old stain? It doesn’t look like there is much/any color left on the wood after power washing. Do I need to apply stripper first and then use the cleaner/brightener (on top of the already crappy one I applied)? Or just one or the other?. I do still see some areas of green algae in other areas of a different part of the deck (added on later than original one with stain) .It’s a 3 year old deck and we just went straight to a cleaner and power washing. HELP!! Thanks
Post a picture of the deck after the pressure washing to help determine what to do.
The first 2 pictures are of the original deck that had previous stain and we just power washed it. Not sure the type of wood it is. The last one is the pine deck that was added by us later and we just power washed it.
Second pic
Pine
Just clean and brighten for the final prep. Do not need to strip.
If u stain with RAD and need to sand and restain a Area should u apply brightner to the sanded area before staining again?
Yes.
Where can it be purchased?
Check with their website. http://www.restore-a-deck.com
How does this product rate on new deck application?
Have you seen this article on new wood? https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
You will have to treat the wood the same way for the RAD.
I have a kiln dried cedar deck installed last year. Was told okay to stain. So stained before it was built. After this past winter, the parts of the decks that are exposed are peeling and flaking, after only a year! Would this word well on this wood? Also, would it perhaps potentially harm my aluminum spindles. Thanks!!
You cannot stain new kiln-dried wood right away. That was bad advice. You will need to strip and brighten for prep: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-injectable-deck-stain-stripper-review/
Should not harm spindles.
thank you!!
Is this product designed to use on a cedar deck?
Yes, it will work on cedar.
I have a 1 year old deck made with I believe pine boards with a printed stamp on the wood that says SPIB PREM RED KD19 HT. The wood looks like it is treated. The floor boards has not had stain applied to it yet but i would like to do it in the near future. Would I have to apply a cleaner and then use a wood brightener or just use a wood brightener? It has some minor graying that has started.
You clean and then brighten. Brightener by itself will not prep wood.
Can you make the cleaner into liquid and then dispense in a power washer, as if it were the pre-cleaning soap?
No, it cannot be injected through a pressure washer.
Can you make the cleaner or brighter in a power washer, once you make it a liquid?
I have a three year old redwood deck. It is out of the sun, and is in total shade. (It is a lower deck). I would like to clean it and power wash it, but NOT re-stain it at this time. Three year stain (Penofin, I believe) is still pretty well coated on the wood. Is it okay to just clean the deck without re-staining. Thanks
Deck prep products like this are designed to prep for recoating, not general cleaning. If you use this, you will need to stain again.
We have a 20 year old iron wood deck, sometimes called monkey wood. And have used Penofin Penetrating Oil Finish. I have occasionally used a pressure washer to remove and reapply the Penofin. I am now at the point where I can remove some of the stain but a majority of the old stain will not power wash off leaving a very spotty deck. My picture shows where the old stain is removed and the darker stain that is almost impossible to get off. If I apply stain now it will look like it looks in the picture most likely. Is your stain remover and brightener product such that it will remove this buildup of stain over the many years we have had the deck. If so, do I need to apply your product more than once to get the results desired. Your reply will determine how we proceed.
The RAD stripper will remove this but you may need to strip it a couple of times to get it all off.
I stain the floor but paint the railing. Would this prep (cleaner/brightener) be appropriate for both areas?
Depends on if the floor has a coating on it or not?
I cleaned my deck last night with the RAD cleaner and power washer. It looks like there is still some residual dirt and grime on the wood and I am wondering if it needs to be cleaned again or if I can go ahead and lightly sand the railing and brighten?
You can go ahead and finish with the brightener. No reason to sand.
RAD Stain can be applied 2-4 hours after brightening? This is our front deck which has older wood and I was planning on doing 2 coats of light walnut stain. We just replaced all the boards on our side deck and are waiting 3 months before staining. We will then do 1 coat of stain since they are new boards. Will this result in different shades of stain on the two decks since one has 2 coats and the other has 1 coat?
Yes on after the 2-4 hours. Older wood will always be slightly darker in color than new wood.
Can we wait a week after cleaning/brightening to stain the wood? If using RAD stain, is it recommended to stain on slightly damp or dry wood?
Damp or dry wood will work. You can stain a week after prep.
I just used RAD cleaner and brightener and it looks like it removed the AC stain that I applied last year. Is that supposed to happen? My intention was to remove the dirt and grime before applying another coat of stain later this week, but seems like I’m back to where I started as if I hadn’t put any stain on before.
Yes. Deck cleaners are for prepping for recoating, not general cleaning of dirt. What you did is correct for applying another coat.
I have a 14 x 18 Lamp and Malphrus Premium pressure treated wood deck. It was built in February and from what i can tell decking board was cut in October 2018. I know it is not ready to stain but i really want to enjoy it now. The wood is beautiful and i have not put anything on it.
My question is should i cover the entire deck with a rug or something until next summer when i stain it OR should I just use it? All i will be doing is staging some furniture around and have a sitting area I live near Asheville NC and the summer and fall is great a for a covered deck. About half of the deck gets morning sun. The other gets almost nothing. I just don’t want to do anything to create more unnecessary work yet and maintain as much as possible the wood until i use a (semi-transparent?) stain.
Can i use Restore a Deck Cleaner on a Tiger Wood deck? It has never had anything done to it and by the time the contractor finished with house (10 years ago) the deck has grayed. I am sick! Half of deck is covered and other is not. What do you recommend and where can I get it?
Many thanks in advance. I heard you folks were awesome!
Go ahead and use the deck. It will be fine. You can use the RAD prep products for the Tigerwood when time to prep.
Thank you so much. After i clean the tiger wood with RAD, where should i go from there? I am going to do that next week. What should i use to get rid of as much gray as possible and should i put some semi transparent on tiger wood? I did not think so but it was so beautiful at one time. Sand? Just use RAD??
Prep with the RAD Deck Cleaner and then the wood brightener. Stain with the RAD semi-transparent wood stain. One coat only for Tigerwood.
You guys are awesome!
Welcome!
Can this deck (photo included) be stripped? The stain currently on it is pictured below. What stain do you recommend for the next application?
You need the RAD Stripper (not cleaner) and these additives: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-stain-stripper-booster-thickening-gel-review/
Stain after with the RAD Semi-transparent stain or Armstong Clark.
I just finished pressure washing my deck. I used the Behr all in one deck cleaner. It’s several years old and was never stained, sealed, or painted. It is currently drying. I am not sure it’s completely clean. I am going to need to seal it with something and replace a few boards. I am thinking semi-transparent would be what I need. Do I need to use any RAD products at this point?
Post a picture.
Hi, I can’t seem to find out if the 2 steps are flower bed-friendly? My patio is surrounded by multiple flower beds. Kindly advise.
You should tarp the flowers. It is not that the products are an issue but all the residual dirt, grime, and soap residue can damage the flowers.
Are there any BRIGHTENER products available for Trex wood decks? A product to apply post Powerwashing??
Thanks
Ed
A brightener will not work or have any effect on Trex.
Hello! Quick question here. Our fence was installed about 9 months ago and I’ve recently power-washed it using some basic deck/fence cleaner and I’d like to use Restore-a-Deck in the natural finish. Is it mandatory that I buy all the cleaning and prepping products as well since I just cleaned? Thanks!
As long as it is clean and your rinsed very well when done, you can go ahead and stain.
Good to know, thank you for the super quick reply! One more thing though (fyi, this subject is far from my strong suit!). When I power washed today I noticed some boards had what looked like graying in small patches nearest the bottom of the boards or where they intersected with the lower horizontal board. Some looked a bit moldy/dirty, but not actual dirt. Not a lot, but enough to notice. I had never used a power washer before, fyi. Started with the 40 nozzle to rinse and it wasn’t taking any of the dark spots off so I switched to the 25 (maybe it was 20?) nozzle and it sort of removed some of the areas but I felt like I was risking ruining the wood if I got any closer. The fence is near dry now and some of those areas are still there, and I’ve already returned the power washer to its owner. Perhaps I do need some additional cleaning supplies and a stiff cleaning brush to fully remove it, or can I stain over it? My head is spinning….I’m MUCH better in the kitchen making delicious baked goods, ha!
New 600 sf second story Cedar deck installed last Summer and stained with Armstrong Clark oil-based semi-transparent stain. The deck looks really good but since it only has one coat of stain on it I want to give it another coat of stain this summer.
I used Restore-A-Deck on it last summer before staining and it made a huge mess of gunk on the underside of the deck the siding on the house below and the patio below which took a very long time to cleanup. It also damaged some of the windows below it, the glass, as confirmed by the professional company that cleans my windows.
I see you recommend Restore-A-Deck for cleaning but based on how good of shape the stain is on my deck and mess/damage it creates below can you recommend something that wouldn’t make such a clumpy mess below?
When new wood sits for a few months or longer it will oxidize from the sun. This oxidation (graying) is then removed by a deck cleaner. It looks like wood fibers and has to come off prior to staining. The RAD is not the cause of this (any deck cleaner would have had the same result) but helps to remove the oxidation from the wood when you do the prep. Always rinse well when you are done to make sure the wood fuzzies are not stuck on the house, etc.
This oxidation removal only happens when the wood is silver or gray and not stained so it should not happen again.
More pics
It is good to go and will look great when stained.
Ok great. Thanks again for your help it’s greatly appreciated and you have a great site! Going with RAD dark walnut stain.
Try applying to damp wood. Much easier. Only one coat as well for new decking.
I’m no professional and this is a huge deck but I did two coats on it and it turned out pretty good in my opinion. Not perfect but I worked it fast. Thanks for all your help. I’ve already recommended you site to a few other people for the wealth of knowledge!
Looks great!
I used RAD today. It took all day on my large deck. As discussed on another post half my deck is covered. When I used the Brightener it looked great while it was wet. When it dried its back white again and the part thats covered looks chalky. Is this normal and is it ok to go ahead with stain? It’s a one year old deck thats never had anything done to it.
do you need to clean and brighten after media blasting?
Probably not as that process scores the surface and roughens up the wood.
My deck has a white film after applying, waiting 15 minutes, brushing many times and washing with a hose. I put the brightener on hoping that would remove the white flakes. Any suggestions?
The white is oxidation of the wood fibers that need to be removed after applying the cleaner. Use a pressure washer or heavy scrub more effectively.
Hi. Is this product safe for plants and animals? I would like to try it to clean vinyl siding with pressure washer application. My siding is badly soiled with mold and mildew. Thanks
Yes, it is.
Would like to use RAD Step 1&2 on a fence. Will either product kill our plants?
I don’t believe so but it may brown some leaves if you do not rinse off the dirt and soap residue.
I just finished my deck today using the RAD kit (stripper, brightener, stain). I have a 450sqft deck with another 100 sqft of steps, post, etc. The deck is 12 years old with poor maintenance by previous owner. Half of the deck is in direct sun, the other half is screened in under a roof. The exposed part was completely gray and no stain and the screened in part had about 20-30% old stain remaining. I have vinyl siding on my home surrounding my deck and white painted rails. I had a few white paint spots on my deck from the painting earlier this year. I mixed the powdered stripper as directed into a bucket. I only used 2 lbs for the entire job which is one bag of stripper. After mixing, I poured into a 2 gallon sprayer. I would say a sprayer, or two, is a must. You will lose a lot of product if you do not use a sprayer and try to slosh it on the wood. Use a sprayer, safety glasses, and wear long sleeves and gloves. I wore the black nitrile gloves from the auto parts store. Worked great. I let it soak for 20 minutes or so and misted as necessary to keep the wood damp. My wood soaked up a lot of liquid. You could easily wait 30 minutes with better results. I bought a stiff plastic bristle brush from my local big box store and scrubbed. It is not easy. A power washer would have easily done a better and quicker job. Rent or buy a power washer; especially if you do not have a water hose with really good pressure. A pressure washer is not necessary but mine would not start the day of so I was left to do it by hand. I would not recommend doing a job bigger than mine without a pressure washer. Everything, including the old stain came off easily. The old gunk will clog up your brush quickly so be prepared with a hose to rinse it out often. I was amazed. Dirt, stain, mildew and old paint spots……GONE. I immediately followed up with a mixture of brightener, mixed as directed, and used the same sprayer. (This is where I wish I had two sprayers). I waited 10 minutes and rinsed off. I would say that rinsing is VERY critical in each step and expect rinsing to take longer than you think. I could immediately see results with the brightener. Reminds me of putting Clorox on the deck back in the old days to clean it up. I let my deck sit over night before staining. The deck was still damp on day 2 as the humidity was high and we had a lot of cloud cover with a brief sprinkle of rain. On Day 2 I finished stripping, scrubbing and brightening the steps, posts under the deck and the fascia of the deck. I let the deck sit for an hour to let… Read more »
For a 2000ft deck how much restore and brighten kit and Armstrong hardwood stain do I need to get? And where do I get these products?
1 prep kit and 1 gallon should work on a hardwood deck. Check with RAD or online.