Prepping a Cedar Fence for Re-staining

Stripper and brightener is the correct way to prep this.

Thanks. I've ordered the Restore-A-Deck Stripper and Brightener and will see how it goes.

Hi all,

Hope this is the right spot for my specific questions. If not, please direct me where I should post elsewhere within the forum.

My questions are not re a deck but rather a mailbox surround made from cedar 1"x4" slats. (See attached photos below) Should have done this a long time before but I need to refinish this wood and looking for the best way to proceed with this particular application. 

Basic info:

Originally built 2-1/2 years ago (not sealed or stained) with this being the first cleaning, seal and/or stain application. Should have done this a lot earlier but the wood is still structurally sound.

I would like to go with a natural weathered grey look but the wife wants a "cedar" look. 

SO, here are 3 questions: 

1) Do I need to clean and stain or will some sort of sealer work?

2) With the wood in its current shape, will it even take a semi-transparent cedar stain or would a weathered gray finish take better?

3) I've read through the deckstainhelp site and it looks like the cleaner-brightener along with the green label Restore-a-Deck material would be good. 

Your thoughts?

Many thanks and best regards...

You have an old stain so you need the Restore A Deck Stripper and then the Brightener. Once done, you can use the Restore a Deck Stain in any color that you like.