To remove water stains from pressure treated wood, you can follow a process starting with general cleaning and moving to more specific stain removal methods if needed, based on the types of cleaners effective on pressure-treated wood.
Start by addressing general dirt and mildew that might contribute to discoloration often associated with moisture.
Step 1: Basic Cleaning
- Begin with a diluted solution of soap and water.
- Use a stiff brush to scrub the affected areas. This mechanical action helps lift surface dirt and mild mildew.
Step 2: Rinsing
- After scrubbing, wash away the dirt and soap residue.
- You can use a hose for this.
- Alternatively, a pressure washer can be used, but only on a very low setting (below 500 psi) to avoid damaging the wood fibers.
Step 3: Tackling Tougher Stains
If the water stains persist after the basic cleaning, they might be considered "tougher stains." For these:
- Use Oxalic acid-based deck cleaners. These are sometimes sold commercially as "wood bleach" and are effective at removing mineral and tannin stains common in wood.
- Follow the product instructions carefully regarding application, dwell time, and rinsing.
By following these steps, starting with a mild approach and progressing to a stronger cleaner for persistent marks, you can effectively remove water stains and other discoloration from your pressure treated wood.
