On Mon, 04 Jun 2007 07:38:40 -0500, Steve
wrote:

I have a 1 year old pressure treated deck, that is in need of cleaning and
protected. I have heard not to pressure wash. What cleaner and sealer is
the best quality?

I use the following:

1/2 cup TSP
3/4 cup household bleach
warm water

Stir the TSP in about 1/2 gallon of warm water for 2 minutes or until
completely dissolved. Stir in the bleach and add warm water to make 1
gallon in a garden sprayer.

Clean a 4x4 section at a time. Spray on and use a long-handled brush.
After 5 minutes rinse off using a garden hose. Wear protective
clothing and rubber gloves. The TSP is a very harsh detergent and
will strip the natural oils from your skin.


Wait 5-10 days for the deck to completely dry. Apply Cabot's Decking
stain (~$32/gal). It comes in several colors. If you have algae or
mildew issues you can add a packet of mildewcide to the stain. Your
deck should look good for 2-3 years without any other application.