Deck Cleaning and Restoration - Williamsport, Pennsylvania

This Residential Pressure Washing and Deck Cleaning project in Williamsport, Pennsylvania involved existing stain removal, sanding and staining of a large deck with stairs in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. This project produced fantastic results and ultimately extended the life of the wood by many years. In addition, the wood is now coated with an easy to maintain penetrating wood stain that produces excellent curb appeal and reduces the risk of a fall. This customer was not happy with the existing product that was applied to their deck. It was a coating-based stain that was beginning to flake, chip and peal. Unlike some coating-based products, our stains are penetrating oil-based products that do not need stripped or removed. The maintenance process on our stain is simply wash and apply another coat of stain. It never cracks, lifts or peals, making maintenance a breeze.

Our initial testing procedures allowed us to choose the correct detergent for the project.

For this application, we utilized a more aggressive hydroxide-based cleaner strong enough to dissolve the current coating yet mild enough to not cause damage to the wood surface or surrounding plant life. Here at United Restoration and Exterior Cleaning, we have a deep understanding of the pressure washing and wood restoration process. Through preliminary testing we can determine the safest and most effective approach to each project.

This project required our standard two-step stripping and neutralization process necessary for professional stain removal and wood restoration. We began this project by conducting our property protection procedures. This included taping electrical receptacles, windows and doors to prevent water damage and taking before photographs for documentation. After all preliminary cleaning procedures were conducted, we prewet and applied a safe stain removal solution designed to lift the original stain and reveal the original wood surface. This detergent remained on the surface for 20 minutes and softened the remaining stain. At that time, we utilized our professional pressure washing equipment to pressure wash and remove the existing stain. After pressure washing, we mixed and applied our wood neutralizer to restore the natural wood color.

After the Deck Cleaning and Pressure Washing, we allowed the wood to completely dry to below 20% moisture. This ensures our penetrating stain gets maximum absorption in the wood surface. Prior to staining, we lightly sanded all high touch areas such as handrails. This added step removes splinters and sharp edges that may have developed over the years. After sanding, we applied new oil-based stain on all surfaces beginning with the railings and ending with the deck floor and stair treads. For this process, we apply two coats, one heavy initial coat and then back roll after ten minutes. This ensures the wood absorbed as much of the stain as possible.

This fantastic Deck Restoration project produced undeniable results. Future maintenance will include a mild Deck Cleaning and application of stain to ensure this deck remains beautiful for many years to come.

Location: Williamsport, PA