- Wood brighteners are formulated to remove wood discolorations caused by tannin bleed. These products also remove rust stains from nails and other metals. They often are recommended for use on stained, painted or unfinished wood decks. Some manufacturers specify using their brightener products only on cedar and redwood decking; they do not recommend using it on exotic, pressure-treated or pinewood decking.
- Most manufacturers of brightener products also produce a complementary deck-cleaning product. Remove any excess dirt and debris from the deck before applying the cleaner. Most deck-cleaner instructions direct you to allow the product to sit on the deck surface for several minutes to loosen built-up dirt and residue. Scrub the decking until it appears clean and rinse off the cleaner thoroughly. Bleach mixed with water or water with a detergent is also used to clean decking; it cleans the wood while discouraging mildew growth.
- After cleaning all the dirt and residue from the deck with a wood cleaner, apply the brightener immediately if you wish. Brightener products typically are applied in the same manner as the cleaner, either with a mop or sprayer. Some companies make a one-step cleaner and brightener for added convenience. If you use bleach to clean the decking, it's crucial to read the warning label of the brightener product. Some brighteners react with bleach. Rinse the deck thoroughly and wait for the wood to dry completely to ensure the bleach chemicals evaporate properly before applying the brightener to avoid a chemical reaction.
- Apply the brightener on a hidden spot first to test if the product causes damage to the wood. Read and follow the brightener application directions carefully. When applying the deck brightener, wear gloves, safety glasses, long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from exposure to the chemicals in these products.
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