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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck)?
  2. How does Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) work?
  3. How should Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) be applied?
  4. How long should Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) remain on the surface?
  5. How do I know when the Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) has worked and the stain is ready to be removed?
  6. Will Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) remove paint?
  7. Will Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) darken Redwood, Cedar and Exotic Hardwoods?
  8. Do I need to protect adjacent surfaces?
  9. What surfaces can Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) be used on?
  10. If unstripped areas remain after rinsing, what should I do?
  11. Can I use Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) for any thing else?

What is Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck)?

Stripper/Cleaner is a strong blend of Sodium Hydroxide and other ingredients, formulated to remove weathered exterior Acrylic and Oil finishes, including; water sealants, semi-transparent and solid hiding stains.

How does Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) work?

Stripper/Cleaner contains a powerful solvent that breaks down the old stain combined with an emulsifier that allows it to be rinsed off with water.

How should Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) be applied?

By brush, roller or garden sprayer. Stripper/Cleaner is thick enough to apply to vertical surfaces, making it effective on cladding, fences and railings.

How long should Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) remain on the surface?

15-30 minutes is usually sufficient to remove most stains, although some stains may require a longer standing time.

How do I know when the Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) has worked and the stain is ready to be removed?

Test a small area after 15-30 minutes with a 'small scrub brush.' If the finish has softened then it is ready to be removed, if not, leave to stand a little longer then test again. Once the finish has softened, scrub the area with a stiff bristle or nylon brush (do not use a wire brush) and rinse using the highest-pressure source available from a tap or with a power washer using 1000-1500 psi with a 150 nozzle. Ensure the nozzle is 12-15 inches from the surface to avoid damage. On vertical or angled surfaces, work from the bottom to the top, to avoid streaking. Do not spray directly at the butt end of cladding or shakes. High pressure spraying at the butt end can lead to damage, causing unnecessary replacement. It can also force water underneath, leading to internal leaks.

Will Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) remove paint?

It may, but this is not its intended use. Test a small area for effectiveness first.

Will Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) darken Redwood, Cedar and Exotic Hardwoods?

Yes, it may react with the tannins (extractives) in the wood. If this happens, apply Net-trol using a brush or roller, as soon as the stripper/cleaner has been rinsed off. Do not allow the timber to dry prior to applying the Net-trol. Allow the Net-trol to sit on the surface until the wood lightens (approx 10 min), then rinse thoroughly with water. If Spa-n-Deck is to be applied as the finish coat, then lighten wood with a 1:2 bleach: water solution and NOT Net-trol.

Do I need to protect adjacent surfaces?

As with all strippers it is important to protect any areas that you do not wish to treat, including stained or painted cladding, glass, plants and shrubbery. Stripper/Cleaner can brown the leaves of plants and shrubs, so always ensure these areas are adequately covered. Thoroughly rinse everything with large quantities of water afterwards.

What surfaces can Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) be used on?

It can be used on all exterior wood, both vertical and horizontal.

If unstripped areas remain after rinsing, what should I do?

Squeegee the area to remove excess water, allow to slightly dry then reapply Stripper/Cleaner.

Can I use Stripper/Cleaner (Prepdeck) for any thing else?

Yes. Not only will Stripper/Cleaner remove old finishes and stains, but it will also remove mill glaze; just dilute it 1:4 with water and leave to sit on the surface for 15-30 minutes before rinsing off. Diluting it up to 1:20 with water makes a powerful cleaning agent for removing dirt and other surface contaminants. It will also remove grade stamps.