How to Remove Stains from a Deck?

To remove stains from a deck, you can use a stain stripper. Here’s how:

Steps to Removing Deck Stains

1. Apply Stain Stripper:
   • Only apply stain stripper to the areas where you want to remove the old coating. This prevents unnecessary damage to unaffected areas.
   • Use a brush or roller to apply an even layer of stain stripper.
2. Wait for the Stripper to Work:
   • Allow the stain stripper to sit for 5 to 45 minutes. The duration depends on the thickness and type of stain. The goal is to let the stripper dissolve the old coating. Do not let the stripper dry out.
3. Remove the Dissolved Coating:
   • Use a scraper or stiff brush to remove the dissolved stain from the deck. You may need to repeat steps 2 and 3 if the stain is very stubborn.
4. Rinse Thoroughly:
   • Once all the dissolved coating has been removed, rinse the deck thoroughly with water to get rid of any remaining stripper residue.

Tips for Effective Stain Removal

• Work in Sections: To manage the stripping process, apply stain remover in smaller sections at a time rather than trying to coat the entire deck.
• Use the Correct Stripper: Make sure to use a stripper that is formulated for deck stain or paint.
• Don't Let it Dry: As highlighted in the reference, it's crucial to not let the stripper dry before you have a chance to remove the dissolved stain.
• Safety First: Wear gloves, eye protection, and appropriate clothing while working with stain strippers. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove old stains from your deck and prepare it for refinishing or to be left in its natural state.