The first step is to strip off the old coat of stain. I prefer to use a stain remover, a brush, and a water hose, instead of a power washer.

Just about any brand of deck cleaner mixed with detergent works well. You can spray it on and then scrub the deck with a stiff bristle broom or brush.

Be sure to wash off the entire deck so that the cleaner is completely washed away before you let it dry.

After about two days of drying, the deck will be ready for the stain sealant.

Most stains are sealants. There is some confusion between the two, but they are usually the same thing.

Apply the stain in the morning hours when the deck surface isn't too hot. The stain will usually be completely dry within a day or so.

Most decks will need to be cleaned and stained about every two or three years.

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