How can we salvage our discolored deck boards after using diluted Oxiclean, without redoing part of the deck?
Asked by Florence Scott 
7 months ago
Last Updated: April 27, 2024
I could really use some advice before I end up divorcing my husband. We’re about to stain our new deck this weekend, but he tried using diluted Oxiclean to remove some stains and now the boards are discolored. Will this be noticeable after we stain it with Cedar semi transparent stain? Is there a way to fix this without redoing part of the deck?
And what about all the other stains? Should we just leave them and stain over it? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
The labels on the deck will fade over time, but to speed up the process, you may want to consider sanding them off. How long has the deck been in place? Typically, treated lumber should be allowed to weather for a few months before applying stain. If the deck is newly installed, I would recommend waiting until next spring to stain it. By then, any new stains from the husband may have faded. If not, you may need to use a sander to remove them completely. You could also try pressure washing, but be cautious as it may not be very effective.
The new deck should not be stained for 6-8 months to allow the boards to properly cure and adapt to the environment.
I can’t help but wonder if you completely got rid of your husband in the second picture 😬
You have the option to sand off the stamps.
Try flipping the hoards with stamps and then waiting to stain as others have suggested.
How about picking up a random orbital sander, grabbing some 80 grit paper, and dedicating a couple of hours to sanding?
Remember to sand the surfaces before staining.
‘t worry if you don’t stain them right away. You can always sand them off later, pressure wash, let them dry for a few days, then apply the stain. It’s important to let the wood adjust.
Is totally on point! We’ve had way too much rain, so let’s give them a break and let them dry out until spring.
Make sure the boards are not too moist (below 15% moisture) before applying the stain.
Have you thought about checking out YouTube for your husband? Maybe he’d be better at housekeeping than working with wood. Even if he can’t read, YouTube has tons of helpful videos! Remember, different chemicals are specific to different materials, so make sure you’re using the right ones. It’s an easy fix though, with plenty of options available. Your deck looks amazing, and the space it creates will give you years of enjoyment. My wife and I had a similar experience with a deck built by friends. They used a framing gun instead of screws, and the deck quickly warped and started falling apart. We ended up rebuilding it with man-made materials and even added a roof, transforming it into a porch we lovingly call the “Dorch” – girl power!
I searched for a DIY wood wash and saw that oxiclean was suggested. After trying it out, I noticed that it lightened my boards and removed mold and other stains, making them look better. It seems like the darker spots are the areas he missed, not the other way around. It’s a good idea to use a wood wash before staining or painting wood. I believe he made the correct choice.
Turn the boards over.
Hey there, ! Remember when laying deck boards, make sure the cupping in the board faces down, not up. It’s a safety measure, as boards laid with the grain facing up will cup upwards and create tripping hazards.
Consider staining the wood next year. Preparing for stain application includes sanding, which will remove those marks. It’s best to let the boards weather a bit before adding any product.
It will add some character
The wood markings can be easily sanded off. Make sure to let the deck dry and adjust before applying the stain. By the time you’re ready to stain, the oxiclean spots will be barely noticeable.
Speaking as a painter, try not to be swayed by imperfections towards using solid color stain. It’s not a good idea. Make sure the wood has aged for at least a year before proceeding – nothing will adhere well to newly treated lumber.
Avoid staining newly built decks. Let them dry out for a year before proceeding. By then, any imprints will have disappeared. If it really bothers you, you can do it now as well.
Remove the decals gently. Allow a year before applying the stain.
Should have added the stamps during construction. They usually only stamp one side. If not, you could use a white-based latex wood stain and have it tinted. Otherwise, go with the clear stain and let the stamps be a unique conversation piece!
The general consensus is that the boards should have been fastened with the stamping on the underside. Depending on the weather where you live, I would recommend waiting about 6 months to a year before staining. When it comes to staining, go for a quality oil based stain like Cabot’s Australian Timber Oil, apply it with a pad and wipe off any excess. Avoid water based stains and anything labeled as semi transparent. The best approach is to stain the top, bottom, and sides of the boards. If you used deck screws, wait until next spring to do that, ensuring the boards are completely dry. Remember, moisture inside the wood can be detrimental.
Haha, how much for the golf clubs? Are you serious about getting a divorce? Let me know!
It’s lucky you nearly ended your marriage over a few pieces of wood, otherwise you wouldn’t have realized the big error of staining a newly built deck right away. 😊
It’s been 7 months since it was installed but some recommend waiting 12 months
Give Oxalic acid a try. It’s effective and makes it easier to maintain consistent color.
Sand down the deck and prepare it with a deck brightener before applying the stain. It’s recommended to do this at least 9 months to a year after installation.
To remove the stamps, simply lightly sand them away.
The stamps are not oriented vertically. The boards should be installed with the crown facing up. If the stamp is on the underside of the crown, then it’s perfect. If it’s on the crowned side, then a light sanding is all that’s necessary.
Indeed, make sure the “bark side” is facing up on the bottom.
How long has it been sitting there – it’s recommended to wait 6 months before staining it
Hey, has been with us for just over 6 months!
Why don’t you just consider getting a divorce from your husband?
You have the option to apply a stain over the stamps, but I recommend sanding them off first. Another approach is to try sanding the area where the oxyclean was used, which may help restore the stamps.
Give them a good sanding
Sand multiple times! If you want to avoid back pain. Consider renting one of the larger standing sanders that you operate from behind
Gently sand them down. Piece of cake
I suggest waiting a few weeks after installation and at least a week of dry weather for the best performance. Do NOT wait until winter.
Sanding will eliminate the stamps, but you will then notice the sanded areas. Test it on scrap pieces.
Hey everyone – we attempted to remove the stamps by sanding as recommended and now we have these spots. Will these be visible after staining? I feel like we’re just making the deck worse.
Instead of removing it, consider incorporating it into a stamp motif in that corner. It could be a great conversation starter or turn it into a herb corner with insect-repelling herbs. Another fun idea could be to have your children leave their handprints and footprints there.
Hey, don’t sweat the small stuff. Try these: 1. Let them fade away. 2. Place a table or chair over it. 3. Express gratitude to your husband for building such a beautiful deck. 4. Remember, is this really a matter of life or death? 5. Count your blessings for having a caring husband like yours. I lost mine 8 years ago, and despite his flaws, I would give anything to have him back.
Don’t take her post too seriously. It seems like her husband knows he made a mistake, but they are probably figuring out solutions together.
Your wood needs to be weathered for at least a year before applying any kind of stain. The moisture content is too high and will cause your finish to peel, especially with the harsh Canadian Winter adding more moisture to the underside of the boards. Let it weather for a year. Next year, clean, sand, and stain (oil holds up much better in Canadian temperatures – I highly recommend Ready Seal – it comes in pre-mixed colors). Feel free to PM me if you have any questions 😊
I have used nail polish remover to eliminate them in the past.