Hi all,
This group has been so helpful to me in the past, I am hopeful some of you with knowledge and experience may again be able to come through for me here.
I have a small 12x12 deck on the second story of my home, full stairway leading up to it. 4 years ago, it was sealed with Thompsons Stain & Seal. I bought the most natural-looking light color they offered, yet the finish ended up much darker than I wanted. Years later, it's starting to fade on the flat surfaces, but the rails are still fairly dark due to less weathering. So, it's LONG overdue I do something about the deck.
My first call was to a Pro deck sealing company. They quoted me $750 to powerwash and seal the deck, but told me that they could not go with a lighter stain or seal due to its already dark color. I assume this is because they do not want to have to risk damaging the wood with a heavy cleaner or powerwash. So between the high price, and them not being able to offer what I want, I have decided to take this on myself.
I have access to a powerwasher and my first goal is to get the deck as light as possible again. Can anyone recommend me a good product to use, in the powerwasher, to get this result? I'm of course trying not to spend a FORTUNE, so the best bet for the money is what I am hoping to find. The labor doesn't bother me as much. I'm also fine using a stiff bristle brush if I have to, but assume the powerwasher would be simpler, with better results. I realize this may roughen up the wood, but have a small belt sander I can use to smooth the surfaces over before the stain, should that occur.
Next, I want to apply a good natural stain and seal to the deck. I have access to 50% off Olympic Maximum's line of stains. Can anyone first tell me if they are a good quality product (for the money, around $10 per gallon is what I would pay) and what a good color with a lighter, more natural look, would be?
Then, do you recommend using a standard paint roller for the deck surface and a brush for the rails, etc, or a brush for it all?
Even if you can only partially answer, any input would be GREATLY appreciated. I'm not a pro at home improvement, but feel I can tackle this myself, I just want to do it well and feel that proper materials will be the key.
Thanks for taking the time to look at this post! Look forward to any input.
Brad