Prep a deck for re-staining
A restained deck only lasts if the old finish is gone and the wood is clean, dry, and open.
What you'll learn
- Why old stain must come off before new stain goes on
- The right nozzle distance for softwood (pine, cedar) vs hardwood (ipé, mahogany)
- What "brighteners" and "strippers" do — and when each one matters
- How long to let the wood dry before the first coat of stain
Step by step
- Clear the deck. Sweep debris out of joint gaps.
- Apply a deck cleaner or stripper. Let dwell per product label.
- Pressure wash with a 25° or 40° tip, 12 inches off the wood, along the grain.
- Apply a wood brightener to restore pH after alkaline cleaning.
- Let the deck dry 48–72 hours before staining.
Safety note
Composite decks (Trex, Fiberon) have a warranty — high pressure can void it. Stick to the manufacturer's cleaning guidance, which is usually a soft-wash approach.
Rather have a pro handle it?
Same-day electrical service across San Diego County. A real electrician picks up.
More guides
Keep learning.
Basics · 6 min watch
Clean your driveway with a consumer pressure washer
A rental or homeowner-grade washer handles surface dirt if you know the nozzle game.
Basics · 7 min watch
Soft wash basics for siding and roofs
Black streaks on a roof or mildew on stucco aren't pressure problems — they're chemistry problems.
Maintenance · 6 min watch
Clean the outside of your gutters
The black tiger-stripe streaks on your gutters are oxidized paint binder — and yes, it comes off.