Is a stripping always necessary?

lets say thompsons was applied 3-4 years ago and the wood is now gray and soaking up water that is sprinkled on it.

Is a cleaning/brightening (oxalic acid based cleaner) all that is needed or do most of you deck guys go ahead and apply a stripper then a cleaning/brightening before sealing?

just curious if most guys would want to be absolutely sure there is no trace of previous sealant and strip before sealing?

thanks

Mark Thornsberry
MidState Cleaning

I would apply a mild stripper (dilluted)...........it allows you to use less pressure and move much faster.

If it is Thompsons water proofer (clear) a percarb based cleaner will take it right off. That stuff was shot 6 months after it was put down. My only concern with using a stripper on this would be the possibility of furring. Mikes right though it will do the job as well.

Follow it up with a brightener/neutralizer afterward regardless of the product used.

Have a good one!

Greg Rentschler