https://forum.deckstainhelp.com/deck-cleaning-questions-and-answers/cedar-deck-how-cleanprep-then-sealstain/ Deck Stain Help Forum Discussion Board en-US Wed, 29 Apr 2026 03:52:39 +0000 wpForo 60 https://forum.deckstainhelp.com/deck-cleaning-questions-and-answers/cedar-deck-how-cleanprep-then-sealstain/#post-8643 Tue, 06 Aug 2013 17:44:29 +0000 I am getting confused with all the different 'advice' I'm getting from various sources (either paint & stain stores or articles by experts on the internet).
Quick facts:
Cedar deck (quite small - basically extends a few feet from steps to back door); fairly high off the ground though enclosed below.
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba (so, all 4 seasons, and harsh winters)
Gets afternoon and evening sun
Mostly not heavy traffic except stairs and entry area. In winter I sweep off snow rather than using a shovel.


4 years ago it was pressure washed and then I used Thompson's water seal (tinted). I had tried sanding but I just didn't have the physical strength. Looked good but some spots didn't really hold so I touched up those areas a couple years ago. This year, definitely time to re-do. Much is greying. It's hard this year to find a good stretch of tie without rain but it needs to be done.

Sherwin-Williams said that I shouldn't pressure wash the deck since it'll leave it fuzzy (last time, only a couple spots were as the guy was a professional painter). They recommended that I do a light sanding (put it on a pole) using 80 grit sandpaper just to get rid of top layer of dead wood, and then applying Deckscapes. They didn't think it needed a wash or brightener. I see that the review of the Deckscapes product on this site isn't that great.

I see TWP recommended here but I've never seen that locally.

What steps and products should I use? I really don't have the physical strength to do serious intensive sanding, but can I have it pressure washed again? is that enough? Would a light sanding be enough? Thanks!]]> Deck Cleaning Questions and Answers MarieS https://forum.deckstainhelp.com/deck-cleaning-questions-and-answers/cedar-deck-how-cleanprep-then-sealstain/#post-8643