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deck cleaning tips 2020

Deck Cleaningdeck stainDeck Staining 101

Deck Staining Myths and Tips 2025

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written by administrator

Deck Stain Tips & Myths

When it comes to staining your exterior wood deck, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. Avoid these common myths to ensure a long-lasting, professional-quality finish.

Common Deck Staining Myths Debunked

? Myth: Thicker or More Stain Lasts Longer
? Truth: Applying excess stain doesn’t mean better protection. Wood can only absorb so much stain—any extra will sit on the surface, leading to premature peeling, flaking, and uneven wear, especially in high-traffic areas.

? Myth: New Wood is Ready to be Stained
? Truth: Fresh wood needs proper preparation before staining. Always clean new wood with a deck cleaner and follow up with a deck brightener to open the wood’s pores. This allows the stain to penetrate effectively, ensuring better adhesion and longevity.

? Myth: Water Should Bead on the Wood After Staining
? Truth: Water should shed off the wood, not bead up. Beading typically means the surface is completely sealed with waxes or silicones, which prevent the wood from breathing. Over time, this can trap moisture and lead to wood damage.

? Myth: 5-6 Year Deck Stain Warranties Mean Long-Lasting Protection
? Truth: No deck stain will last more than 2-3 years on a horizontal, exposed wood surface. Weather, dirt, UV rays, and foot traffic all contribute to natural wear and tear. Many extended stain warranties come with exclusions that make them virtually meaningless.

? Myth: A Deck Should Look Like a Hardwood Floor
? Truth: A glossy, polyurethane-like finish on an outdoor deck is a bad idea. These finishes trap moisture, peel, and flake, causing a maintenance nightmare. The best deck stains penetrate the wood rather than forming a surface film, ensuring better durability.

? Got Deck Staining Questions?
Leave a comment on our website! We’re here to help you achieve the best results for your deck in 2025 and beyond.

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Deck Cleaning

How to Clean a Deck (Don’t Use Chlorine Bleach) 2025

by Clay
written by Clay

no-bleach

How to Clean a Wood Deck the Right Way in 2025

Many homeowners make the mistake of using chlorine bleach to clean their deck, thinking it will effectively remove mold and mildew. However, using bleach can cause long-term damage to your wood, leading to discoloration, splintering, and premature aging. The good news? There’s a safer and more effective way to clean your deck in 2025.

Why You Should Avoid Chlorine Bleach on Your Deck

Chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is a powerful sanitizer that kills bacteria and viruses, but it is not designed to clean wood decks. Here’s why using bleach is a bad idea:

  • It Damages Wood Fibers: Bleach destroys lignin, the natural glue that holds wood fibers together. This weakens the wood, causing it to splinter and turn an unattractive gray color.
  • It Doesn’t Kill Mold at the Root: Mold has deep roots in porous surfaces like wood. Bleach only removes mold on the surface, while the water content of bleach actually feeds the mold underneath. This often leads to faster, darker regrowth.
  • It Strips Deck Stains and Sealers: If your deck is stained or sealed, using bleach can cause premature failure, fading, and a blotchy appearance.
  • It Harms Surrounding Plants: Bleach runoff can kill grass, flowers, and landscaping around your deck, requiring extra precautions to protect your yard.

When it comes to chlorine bleach, think of it as a household cleaner for non-porous surfaces—kitchens and bathrooms—not for outdoor wood decks.

The Best Way to Clean Your Wood Deck in 2025

If you want a safe and effective way to clean your deck, use Restore-A-Deck Cleaner. This specialized wood cleaner is designed to remove dirt, mildew, and stains without harming the wood’s natural structure.

Why Restore-A-Deck Cleaner is the Best Choice:

? Safe for Wood: Unlike bleach, it preserves the lignin and fibers, keeping your deck strong and looking great.
? No Power Washer Needed: The formula is strong enough to clean the wood with just a garden hose. Simply apply, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, and rinse off.
? Safe for Plants and Grass: No need to cover or protect surrounding vegetation—it won’t cause harm.
? Prepares Wood for Staining: If you plan to stain or seal your deck, Restore-A-Deck Cleaner ensures a clean surface for the best adhesion and longevity.

How to Use Restore-A-Deck Cleaner:

  1. Mix the cleaner according to the instructions.
  2. Apply with a pump sprayer, brush, or roller.
  3. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose or pressure washer on low.

Final Thoughts

To keep your deck looking its best, avoid using chlorine bleach, which can do more harm than good. Instead, choose Restore-A-Deck Cleaner for a deep clean that protects your wood and extends the life of your deck.

For the best results, get Restore-A-Deck Cleaner online or at your local hardware store today!

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Deck Cleaning

How to Remove Mold on Decks

by administrator
written by administrator

Mold is a general term used for fungal growth. It will grow on just about any exterior surface including decks. Wood is not naturally resistant to mold infiltration. Even pressure treated pine will get mold on it if the conditions are right. Most decks have seen their fair share of mold depending on climate, humidity, and sun exposure. Shaded areas of decks are typically more prone than sunny areas. Even some deck stains can be more prone to mold than others.

Mold and wood do not mix. Mold will win every time. Spore infiltration may be surface mold or it could go deeper into the wood fibers. Damage can range from unsightly appearance to major structural damage. The good news is that mold on decks can be removed safely before damage is done. Most decks should be cleaned and re-stained every year or two to keep a maintained appearance. Regular maintenance will increase the deck’s longevity. Knowing how to remove mold on decks does not include any big secrets. If you follow a general cleaning method you will remove mold in the process.

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