We recently installed some Fortress metal railing after recovering an older deck with cedar decking. Unfortunately, we did not anticipate the staining from the iron particles from cutting the rail that occurred when it rained the next day. Is there a product that you have used to remove the staining and that works well? Thanks for any input.
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
Michael Hindle explores the efficacy of deep energy retrofits and discusses essential considerations for effective climate mitigation.
Featured Video
How to Install Cable Rail Around Wood-Post CornersHighlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
Try super iron out.
http://www.summitbrands.com/brands/ironout.aspx
Sanding is about it! As soon as you can! Random orbit 80-100 grit and then seal to maintain the Cedar color.
In the mean time scrub off the decking to remove what you can of the iron particles.
Always cover what your working over! But you know that now.
Sanding will leave light spots, where it removes the natural patina. Could end up having to sand the whole deck, which would be a nightmare. I'd stick with chemicals if possible.
~ Ted W ~
Cheap Tools! - MyToolbox.netMeet me at House & Builder!
Edited 4/16/2009 10:51 am by Ted W.
That "SuperIronOut" recommendation should work - it's basically a "buffered" bleach.
A deck cleaner with oxalic acid in it will work as well. In either case you'll probably have to do the entire deck to keep the coloring even. But, they'll have a nice clean deck to show for your efforts....
Iron stains come out pretty readily with oxidants, the hard part is not lightening the color of the surrounding wood too much. Try spot treatment first, and if the results are acceptable, work the broad surface all at once.
Remember that virtually all chemical reactions require heat and time. More heat = less time or less heat = more time. Don't rush things on a cold day, and don't dilly-dally on a hot day.
-t
We used a weak solution of an oxalic acid this afternoon, and had great results. I thought it would work, but was surprised at how well it cleaned, and how quickly.
We have been using a lot of composite decking, and never considered the effect it would have on the cedar. We are reminded and chastened now.
Jim
Oh, I learned about this the hard way. Long story short: had to sand down a whole deck after cutting a bunch of steel bolts in such a way that particles landed on the cedar.
Sure, I get paid by the hour, but the boss was not impressed.
Now I know.