Replies

1. 
   DanH | Jun 30, 2011 09:59pm | #1

   You might try oxalic acid ("wood bleach").

1. 
   MikeMicalizzi | Jun 30, 2011 10:03pm | #2

   Thanks!

   Thanks Dan. I never heard of that stuff. I'll try to find who sells it. 

2. 
   calvin | Jun 30, 2011 10:07pm | #3

   Here in Ohio,

   They've always had print on the treated decking (likewise with the framing lumber.

   Sanding was the only way to get it off.

   Belt or orbital, seemed to work every time.  You could blend out the lightened area.

3. 
   byhammerandhand | Jul 03, 2011 05:39pm | #4

   Oxalic acid is sold as "deck brightener"   It's good for bleaching out sun damage and black stains caused from iron and tannins in the wood (if you've ever seen black stains on oak, that's them.)

   I would first try a series of solvents.  Start with Denatured Alcohol as it is a solvent for lots of inks (like Sharpies).   If that doesn't work, look at acetone.

1. 
   DanH | Jul 03, 2011 09:14pm | #5

   If you find that a solvent seems to work, here's a hint:  dump about a 1/4" layer of corn starch over the mark, then saturate that with your solvent.  As it dries, the corn starch will draw out the ink.

1. 
   caseyr | Jul 11, 2011 02:01am | #7

   Goof Off claims to remove ink stains, along with other things.  Claims to remove dried latex paint but doesn't say anything about oil based paints.  The stuff is available at the big boxes and most hardware and paint stores.  Might be worth a try. 

4. 
   JWRoofing | Jul 04, 2011 04:08pm | #6

   Hi Mike,

   Most inks will come off with alcohol. Permanent markers, like sharpies, will wipe right off with it.  However, since this is on wood, you might want to do a small spot test as not to dry out the wood.