Two questions re deck washing and staining....?

Question

1. Deck Staining: I just went to purchase clear deck stain for my 16 x 26 foot deck, 4 years old. I had planned to hire someone to put on two coats for me, but every gallon I picked up (and the one I eventually bought) said to "only put on ONE coat"--and they didn't say why! Does anyone know why it's a BAD idea to put on two coats of clear deck stain on pressure-treated wood?

2. I had forgotten re cleaning the deck first, until someone reminded me. Now I am wondering if I can just use bleach? or do I have to buy a specific product? The deck is only 4 yrs old and has very few "greenish" spots.

Thank you for any help.

Answer 1

One coat is recommended so that the sealant does not form a "skin".

Directions almost always advise to brush out "wet spots"

Have skipped sprayers & rollers & apply the sealant & brush it out at the same time.

Got to bend over anyhow.

Used bleach on an older deck , but it does not remove the old sealant .

See what the sealant can says about prep .

Found that some cleaners require a neutralizer & will burn plants , lawn & you if not careful.

Been using CWF cleaner & sealer which holds up well.

Answer 2

Never use bleach on treated wood.  I am a painter and have worked in a paint department. I could tell you horror stories about bleach. If you need to go to your local Lowe's or Home Depot and get the proper deck cleaner. Follow the directions and you will not have any trouble.  

And Please tell me that you are not using Thompson's Water Seal?  It is one of the worst materials on the market.

As for two coats. If the manufacturer says use only one coat then follow their directions.

I get calls to come straighten out painting, staining jobs all the time by people that made a mess by not following directions, or using cheap materials.

Answer 3

Don't use bleach, that stuff is dangerous.   If your deck isn't too dirty you can just use a hose with a strong sprayer on it.  If it's too dirty to get it clean that way, you would need to rent a power washer and clean it that way.  There is deck cleaner stuff that you mop on, let sit for a few minutes, then spray off.  You need to let it dry well before adding the stain.