Our 5 Step Power Washing Process
Decks, Fences and Other Outdoor Wood
1. Apply stain lifting agent and deck cleaner.
Bio-degradable solution is evenly applied to deck floor, ,steps, railings and fascia. This begins to break down the existing finish and loosens oxidized dead wood fibers.
Stripper prepares the deck for power washing.
2. Pressure washing
Deck Shine washes the entire length of each board following the grain with 1,500 psi forced water generated from commercial pressure washers to remove old finish, mildew, dirt and dead gray wood cell fibers. Experience is critical as incorrect technique will do more harm than good. When used correctly, pressure washing provides excellent results.
Pressure washing will clean and remove the dead layer from the wood.
3. Apply Brightener and Conditioner
After the deck has been pressure washed and the old finish is removed, it is necessary to condition the clean wet lumber with wood brightener. Stain lifting agents initially darken the wood grain by raising the pH levels. Applying brightener neutralizes the elevated pH level and returns the natural beauty and color to the wood. The conditioner helps open the wood grain pores to better receive oil based semi-transparent sealer.
Brightener restores the wood's natural color and beauty and neutralizes the stripping action.
4. Sanding
After your deck has dried completely, Deck Shine sands all handrail caps, bench tops and other problem areas as needed. This final step prior to applying the new sealer completes the prepping of your “new” deck.
Sanding smooths surfaces and removes splinters.
5. Apply oil based transparent stain/sealant
We apply the highest rated oil based stains through a combination of commercial airless sprayers and staining pads. We utilize a combination of tarps and plastics to protect your siding, plants, patio furniture and surrounding area. With multiple colors to choose from, Deck Shine will work with you to determine the finish that’s right for you.
TWP is one of our recommended finishes.
Our 5 Step Deck Sanding Process
STEP 1: Set raised or exposed nails and screws
Set fasteners (nails/screws) that may have worked themselves above the surface of the deck flooring, steps, benches and handrails over time. This is a critical first step in preparing your deck for complete belt sanding.
STEP 2: Belt Sanding
Deck Shine uses 4” x 24” belt sanders for maximum maneuverability, versus stand-up floor or orbital sanders. Belt sanding follows the grain of each individual board and results in the appearance of newly milled lumber. Other companies typically use large surface area sanders, or oscillating sanders, which cut across the grain of the lumber and can result in unsightly track marks or an uneven finish. Belt sanding is performed on all horizontal surfaces including floor, benches, steps and handrail caps.
STEP 3: Palm Sanding
Next we complete the sanding of the deck along difficult areas where belt sanding is impractical with ¼ sheet palm grip sanders. This protects your siding, and includes surfaces beneath railings, benches and stairs.
STEP 4: Rinse and Condition
After your deck has been completely sanded, Deck Shine applies wood brightener and conditioner. This crucial step returns the lumber to its proper pH balance, and further accentuates the inherent beauty and natural color of the wood species. Additionally, the conditioning aspect of the product opens the wood grain pores to ensure deep penetration of oil based semi-transparent stain.
STEP 5: Apply oil based transparent sealer
After deck has dried completely we apply the highest rated oil based semi-transparent stains through a combination of airless sprayers and 6″ and 18″ staining pads. We utilize a combination of tarps and plastics to protect your siding, plants, patio furniture and surrounding area. With multiple colors to choose from, Deck Shine will work with you to determine the finish that’s right for you.
Furniture, Fences, and House Washing
Deck Shine's 5 Step Power Washing Process works great on wood furniture, playsets, and brick pavers. All exterior wood needs regular maintenance.
Serving all of Oakland County including Birmingham Bloomfield Hills Berkley Clawson Troy Rochester Rochester Hills Oakland Twp Auburn Hills Lake Orion Oxford Commerce Novi