Have you ever cleaned/bleached exterior wood?

J

JBR

Senior Member
Location
Southern Canada mtn. valley, tad west of Rockies
I built our deck 16 years ago, using stained pressure-treated 2x4s for the surface. Most of the boards are still in decent shape, with maybe 5-8% that should be replaced. But the surface is grey from being exposed to the elements and walked on for all these years. Because most of the wood is still strong & otherwise decent, I've considered using a cleaning product like "ABR X180" which is used for renewing the exterior appearance of wood structures like long homes. I wonder if I can use something like that before applying a semi-transparent stain for a chosen appearance.

I'm not sure what the formula of ABR X180 is. I'm guessing it could be mainly oxalic acid. I've used oxalic acid to remove dark stains from light-colored wood-furniture surfaces before, and it can do an amazing job.

So... I wonder if anyone here has used the ABR product, or anything like it, to lighten greyed wood in an exterior situation? What can you tell me?
 

Copilot
Usingthe web
Certainly! It sounds like you’re looking to renew the appearance of your weathered deck. Let’s explore the ABR X180 Weathered Wood Restorer:
  • Purpose: ABR X180 is designed to counteract weathering on exterior wood surfaces, including decks.
  • Cleaning Power: It eliminates years of fungus and discoloration from cedar, redwood, and other wood types.
  • Biodegradable Formula: It’s a blend of oxalic and inorganic acids combined with a nonionic surfactant.
  • Limitations: It won’t remove paint, stain, or clear finish in sound condition.
  • Precautions: Protect adjacent surfaces, especially aluminum, and rinse off quickly to avoid dulling painted or metal surfaces.
  • Coverage: Diluted X180 covers 150 to 250 sq. ft. per gallon.
  • Application: Test a small area first to determine the most effective cleaning procedure.
Remember to follow the product instructions and enjoy your refreshed deck! 🌿🪚🌞 1

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ABR X180 Weathered Wood Restorer: A Summary for Your Deck Revival Project​

Based on the information I found, ABR X180 Weathered Wood Restorer seems like a good option to consider for renewing your deck's appearance. Here's a quick breakdown of its key features:

  • Purpose: Removes years of weathering, fungus, and discoloration from decks (cedar, redwood, and other wood types).
  • Cleaning Power: Uses a biodegradable formula (oxalic and inorganic acids) to clean without harming the environment.
  • Limitations: Won't remove existing paint, stain, or clear finishes that are still in good condition.
  • Precautions: Be careful around aluminum surfaces and rinse well to avoid damaging painted or metal areas.
  • Coverage: One gallon of diluted X180 can cover 150-250 square feet.
  • Application: Test on a small inconspicuous area first to determine the best cleaning method for your deck.
Additional Tips:

  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and safety.
  • Wear gloves and eye protection when using the product.
  • Consider using a deck cleaner specifically designed for your deck's wood type for optimal results.
  • After cleaning, you may want to stain or seal your deck to protect it from future weathering.
Further Resources:

The provided links (1-6) offer more information about the product from various retailers. You can visit them to see product reviews, pricing, or additional details.

Do you have any other questions about using ABR X180 or perhaps other deck restoration options? I can help you find more information online.
 

PeppermintPatty said:
Have you considered power washing your deck. Power washers can make that wood look new with minimal effort.
Click to expand...
Thanks Patty. I don't own a power washer. I suppose I could rent one, but considering the rental cost plus two 2-way trips to nearby city, to rent & bring back (time plus truck-fuel cost), I'm not sure whether that or using the X180 would be the better choice.
 
JBR said:
Thanks Patty. I don't own a power washer. I suppose I could rent one, but considering the rental cost plus two 2-way trips to nearby city, to rent & bring back (time plus truck-fuel cost), I'm not sure whether that or using the X180 would be the better choice.
Click to expand...
I’m not sure either JBR. I think we paid $300 for our power washer but we wash everything including our vehicles and house veranda. With the right setting and nozzle it can make old wood like new again. I ‘might’ be easier that trying to make new wood look old but only you will know that. Good luck with whatever you decide. Will you show us the results?
 
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A couple of years ago we were considering a power washer. It was on sale at the time and the price was very reasonable. Not sure of the power needed to renew an aging deck. If nothing else, it would clean it up.
 
JBR said:
Could it be there are generic products similar to the ABR X180 concentrate that are less expensive?
Click to expand...
Copilot
Usingthe web
Certainly! If you’re looking for alternatives to the ABR X180 Weathered Wood Restorer, here are a couple of options that might be more budget-friendly:
  1. Folexin:
  2. Viviscal:
Remember to explore these alternatives and find the one that best suits your needs! 🌿🌟 1

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I
Paco Dennis said:
Copilot
Usingthe web
Certainly! If you’re looking for alternatives to the ABR X180 Weathered Wood Restorer, here are a couple of options that might be more budget-friendly:
Click to expand...
Copilot has played a little joke there, or maybe is simply confused, off-beam. ARB X180 is a wood bleach or restorer. What Copilot has come up with are over-the-counter elixirs or potions. So I'm supposing we can generally trust humans more than AI. !!
 
Here is what the product's website says about it:
https://www.abrp.com/product/x-180-weathered-wood-restorer/

Description​

X-180 Weathered Wood Restorer™ was developed because exterior wood surfaces, including decks and shake roofs, become discolored from dirt and general weathering. X-180 Weathered Wood Restorer™ counteracts the weathering process by eliminating years of fungus and discoloration from cedar, redwood, and other types of wood. It cleans and restores wood surfaces back to the appearance of new lumber.

Using high pressure water alone to clean wood will create damage to wood fibers as well as, uneven stop and start marks. Water alone will not remove the fungus growth in the fibers.

CAUTION: Household bleaching solutions (namely Sodium Hypochlorite) harm the environment, and will not produce a new natural wood color. Using bleach to clean wood may produce a chemical reaction to the outer wood fiber forming a film, causing future adherence and penetration of stains and paints to fail and separate. X-180 Weathered Wood Restorer™ is a biodegradable blend of oxalic and inorganic acids combined with a nonionic surfactant.
Here's even more specs: https://www.abrp.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/X-180-SPEC.pdf

You could try to call the company and ask if it can be used on pressure treated wood.
 
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JBR said:
I

Copilot has played a little joke there, or maybe is simply confused, off-beam. ARB X180 is a wood bleach or restorer. What Copilot has come up with are over-the-counter elixirs or potions. So I'm supposing we can generally trust humans more than AI. !!
Click to expand...
Yes. Most definitely. NEVER trust anything unless you can be confident that it is verified!!

Edit...bold. Too big a generalization. It depends, it could be the other way around also. :)
 
Paco Dennis said:
Yes. Most definitely. NEVER trust anything unless you can be confident that it is verified!!

Edit...bold. Too big a generalization. It depends, it could be the other way around also. :)
Click to expand...
We could have another thread on the topic of the "don't trust AI" being 'too bold, too big a generalization'.🙂 I hope this thread comes back to rejuvenating a wood surface.😉
 
Thanks for replies so far. I'd appreciate it if this thread could return to the question of what members' experiences might be in renewing exterior/outdoor wood surfaces. "Copilot" ( AI ), post #9 above, got confused about the topic.
. . .

But, for instance, the Thompson Waterseal company makes a "3-in-1 Wood Cleaner" product. Do you know if that, or some other product, is recommendable? Dear members, just want you to know I'll appreciate learning from your experience.
 
JBR said:
Thanks Patty. I don't own a power washer. I suppose I could rent one, but considering the rental cost plus two 2-way trips to nearby city, to rent & bring back (time plus truck-fuel cost), I'm not sure whether that or using the X180 would be the better choice.
Click to expand...
No personal experience with this either but I've been told that power washing can erode the wood leaving a very open grain if the pressure isn't carefully controlled.

I, too, will be interested in any others can bring to this discussion.
 
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@JBR Here is another inquiry U might find useful. Gemini.ai

Here's how you can effectively wash and clean your stained pressure-treated deck to restore its look without replacing most of the boards:
Materials:
  • Stiff bristle deck brush
  • Garden hose with nozzle (or pressure washer - see caution below)
  • Deck cleaner (appropriate for pressure-treated wood)
  • Tarp or plastic sheeting (to protect surrounding areas)
  • Bucket
  • Safety glasses and gloves
Steps:
  1. Prepare the area: Move any furniture or planters from the deck. Cover plants and shrubs around the deck with a tarp or plastic sheeting to protect them from cleaner overspray.
  2. Pre-wet the deck: Use your garden hose to thoroughly wet the entire deck surface. This helps loosen dirt and grime and prevents the deck cleaner from drying too quickly.
  3. Apply deck cleaner: Follow the manufacturer's instructions on your chosen deck cleaner. These cleaners typically involve mixing a concentrate with water in a bucket and applying it to the deck with a sprayer or pouring it directly onto the wood.
  4. Scrub the deck: Once the cleaner has sat on the deck for the recommended time (usually 10-15 minutes), use the stiff bristle brush to scrub the wood in the direction of the grain. Pay close attention to areas with heavy mildew or dirt buildup.
  5. Rinse thoroughly: Use your garden hose to rinse away all the cleaner solution. Ensure no cleaner residue remains on the deck.
Pressure Washer Caution: While a pressure washer can be tempting for faster cleaning, be cautious! Using too much pressure can damage the wood fibers of your pressure-treated lumber. If you choose to use a pressure washer, keep the spray at a wide angle and use a low-pressure setting (around 1,500 psi). A deck cleaning attachment can also help regulate the pressure and distribute the cleaning solution.
Post-Cleaning:
  • Inspect the deck: Once the deck is clean and dry, take a close look at the boards. Replace any boards that are warped, cracked, or show signs of rot.
  • Restoring the finish: After the deck is completely dry (usually 24-48 hours), you can consider applying a deck brightener to restore the wood's natural color. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.
  • Re-staining: If you want to add color back to the deck, you can re-stain it. Choose a stain specifically designed for pressure-treated wood and follow the application instructions carefully.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean and restore your stained pressure-treated deck, extending its life and improving its appearance without replacing most of the boards.






name some safe biodegradable deck cleaning products​




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Here are some safe, biodegradable deck cleaning products that you can use on your stained pressure-treated deck:
  • Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner: This versatile cleaner is a popular choice for many cleaning tasks, including decks. It's made with plant-based surfactants and is biodegradable and phosphate-free.
    It's readily available and relatively inexpensive. However, it might not be strong enough for tough cleaning jobs.
    Image of Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner Opens in a new window www.drbronner.com
    Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner

  • Simple Green Deck and Fence Cleaner:This concentrated formula is phosphate and bleach-free and is designed to remove environmental pollution, dirt, and grime from decks, fences, and other outdoor structures. It's safe for use on wood, vinyl, and composite deck materials. Simple Green is another affordable option that is effective for most cleaning jobs.
    Image of Simple Green Deck and Fence Cleaner Opens in a new window simplegreen.com
    Simple Green Deck and Fence Cleaner

  • Deck Renew Wood Deck Cleaner: This oxygen bleach-based cleaner is effective in removing stains, mildew, and graying wood without harming the wood fibers or surrounding plants.
    Deck Renew is a good choice for decks that are heavily stained or mildewed.
    Image of Deck Renew Wood Deck Cleaner Opens in a new window armorpoxy.com
    Deck Renew Wood Deck Cleaner

  • Eco-Friendly Deck and Patio Cleaner by Liquid Rubber:This organic, non-corrosive deck cleaner is formulated with acid salt and other naturally occurring ingredients to remove dirt, light surface mildew, and gray fibers from weathered wood. It will not harm plants or shrubs and does not contain VOCs, acid, chlorine, or bleach. This is a good option for those who want an all-natural cleaning solution.
    Image of EcoFriendly Deck and Patio Cleaner by Liquid Rubber Opens in a new window shopliquidrubber.com
    EcoFriendly Deck and Patio Cleaner by Liquid Rubber

  • Wash Safe Deck Wash Wood Deck Cleaner:This powerful bleach-free deck cleaner is made with hydrogen peroxide and is effective in removing stains from mold and mildew. It's safe for use on pressure-treated wood, cedar, redwood, and other types of deck wood. It biodegrades quickly and is safe for people, pets, and plants. Wash Safe is a good all-around deck cleaner that is effective on tough stains.
    Image of Wash Safe Deck Wash Wood Deck Cleaner Opens in a new window washsafe.com
    Wash Safe Deck Wash Wood Deck Cleaner
Important Note: When using any deck cleaning product, always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Be sure to test the product in a small inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire deck.
 
PeppermintPatty said:
Have you considered power washing your deck. Power washers can make that wood look new with minimal effort.
Click to expand...
I tried that and the washer was too tough on the wood IMO. So I use ordinary washing machine chlorine bleach. About a 1/3 bleach to water ratio. It removes all the living stuff from the wood and paint along with a lot of dirt. The secret to not breaking your back is to spread the mixture on the planks and then let it sit a good 3-5 minutes. Then put your back into it, but lightly. If you have to scrub hard, apply more of the bleach mixture and let it sit a big longer. Obviously, keep the bleach away from plants, though I have found that it doesn’t really kill them easilyh. And don’t let your pets walk on the surface until it is thoroughly dry.
 
JBR said:
Thanks for replies so far. I'd appreciate it if this thread could return to the question of what members' experiences might be in renewing exterior/outdoor wood surfaces. "Copilot" ( AI ), post #9 above, got confused about the topic.
. . .

But, for instance, the Thompson Waterseal company makes a "3-in-1 Wood Cleaner" product. Do you know if that, or some other product, is recommendable? Dear members, just want you to know I'll appreciate learning from your experience.
Click to expand...
I've had best results with Mineral Spirits. Clean the spots w/mineral spirits(follow directions), then, when it's thoroughly dried, protect it with Thompson's water seal.
 
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Old fashioned anti-freeze (not the new safe ones) is a marvelous way to treat wood that is rotting out but still OK. It kills just about anything that will rot out wood including the eggs of most wood eating bugs. Again, keep pets away until it had dried and been soaked into the wood
 
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You shouldn't use a power sprayer on your wood deck. If you use the wrong setting, you could peel off a layer of wood. A pro should do it for you, if that's what you want.
 
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Brookswood said:
I tried that and the washer was too tough on the wood IMO. So I use ordinary washing machine chlorine bleach. About a 1/3 bleach to water ratio. It removes all the living stuff from the wood and paint along with a lot of dirt. The secret to not breaking your back is to spread the mixture on the planks and then let it sit a good 3-5 minutes. Then put your back into it, but lightly. If you have to scrub hard, apply more of the bleach mixture and let it sit a big longer. Obviously, keep the bleach away from plants, though I have found that it doesn’t really kill them easilyh. And don’t let your pets walk on the surface until it is thoroughly dry.
Click to expand...
It’s sounds like you’ve got a perfect solution. I like how you keep your family safe while you’re working including the plants. Will you show us a picture of the finished product when you’re done?
 
PeppermintPatty said:
It’s sounds like you’ve got a perfect solution. I like how you keep your family safe while you’re working including the plants. Will you show us a picture of the finished product when you’re done?
Click to expand...
Personally, I don't think you should use bleach on wood. Unless you don’t mind stripping it of its natural color and damaging the cellular structure.

Oxygen bleach is an alternative that won’t wash out colors (or harm plants), but it’s still not appropriate for redwood.
 
Murrmurr said:
Personally, I don't think you should use bleach on wood. Unless you don’t mind stripping it of its natural color and damaging the cellular structure.

Oxygen bleach is an alternative that won’t wash out colors (or harm plants), but it’s still not appropriate for redwood.
Click to expand...
That’s why I suggested a power wash. Most power washers have varying end attachments so you can adjust the force of how the water comes out. I know our power washer has 5 settings.

Plus , I don’t want to criticize any ones’ working methods either.
 
Murrmurr said:
You shouldn't use a power sprayer on your wood deck. If you use the wrong setting, you could peel off a layer of wood. A pro should do it for you, if that's what you want.
Click to expand...
That’s why you do testing on a sample piece of wood first. A couple of weeks ago I power washed our entire veranda. It’s a combination of wood and vinyl. It came out wonderful.
I did it myself. I must be a pro. 😂🤪
You find the right setting first MurrMurr.
 

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