SURFACE PREPARATION:

For best results, always clean new, gray or yearly maintenance decking before applying Ipe Oil®. Begin by using DeckWise® Deck & Wood Cleaner Part 1 to remove stains and mildew, followed by Deck & Wood Brightener Part 2 to restore the wood’s pH balance. Let the wood dry completely for 24 to 48 hours before applying an Ipe Oil® product. 

We do not recommend the use of a pressure power washer because it can damage the wood and can leave streak marks as well as frequently tend to raise the wood grain rendering a rough unwanted surface.

NOTE: New decking should be allowed to age for 6-8 weeks before cleaning, brightening, and applying oil. Existing lumber will already be adequately weathered for optimal oil penetration but will still need cleaned and brightened prior to applying a finish.

DeckWise® Wood and Deck Cleaner Part 1:

The main function of DeckWise® Wood and Deck Cleaner is to remove contaminants such as mold, oxidation (graying), dirt, algae, and dull or deteriorating deck finishes. This cleaner effectively removes dirt and graying while also serving as the first step in prepping your wood for a new finish.

It comes in a concentrated powder form, similar to a mild laundry detergent, and is sold in 16 oz. containers. Each container can produce up to five gallons of cleaning solution. For tougher cleaning jobs, multiple applications or a stronger solution may be needed, which could reduce coverage. To mix, use a 4:1 ratio of powder to water, or 1/3 cup of powder per gallon of warm to semi-hot water.

DeckWise® Wood and Deck Brightener Part 2:

DeckWise® Wood and Deck Brightener Part 2 restores the pH balance of hardwood to a neutral state, while also removing tannin stains, dirt, rust, grime, and fungi from the wood surface. Tannins, which naturally occur in many hardwoods, often cause dark discoloration when exposed to moisture, but this brightener eliminates those stains.

The brightener is an oxygenated concentrate with Oxalic Acid as the active ingredient, which helps neutralize the wood. Once neutral, the wood is ready to evenly absorb an oil finish like Ipe Oil®, enhancing the overall appearance of the wood.

This brightener is sold as a powder concentrate in 16 oz. containers, with each container making up to five gallons of solution. For stubborn stains, you may need multiple cleanings or a stronger mix, reducing the coverage area. Mix the brightener at a 4:1 ratio with warm to semi-hot water, or 1/3 cup of powder per gallon of water.

Application

Step 1: Sweep and Remove Debris from the Wood Surface
Before applying any finish to wood decking or siding, always begin by sweeping or brushing away dirt, dust, and debris from the surface and gaps. Once the area is free of debris, you're ready to start the cleaning and brightening process.

Step 2: Rinse the Wood and Keep It Wet
After clearing away debris, thoroughly rinse the wood surface with water. Be careful not to let water stand or pool on the surface. Use a broom or brush to remove any excess water, ensuring the wood stays damp but not flooded.

Step 3: Mix Cleaner Part 1 (1/3 Cup) with 1 Gallon of Warm/Hot Water
Measure 1/3 cup of DeckWise® Wood and Deck Cleaner Part 1 and mix it with one gallon of warm or hot water. Stir until all particles dissolve completely. Apply a generous amount of the solution to the wood using a mop or brush to create suds. Allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes, keeping the wood damp by misting it with water if necessary.

Step 4: Scrub the Wood with Cleaner Part 1, Then Rinse
Using a long-handled brush for larger areas and a handheld brush for smaller spaces, scrub the wood vigorously following the grain to dislodge dirt. After scrubbing, rinse the wood thoroughly with water.

Step 5: Mix Brightener Part 2 (1/3 Cup) with 1 Gallon of Hot Water
For the brightening step, mix 1/3 cup of DeckWise® Wood and Deck Brightener Part 2 with one gallon of hot water. Make sure all particles dissolve completely before application. Apply a generous amount of the solution to the wood, ensuring it suds up. Let it soak for 30 minutes, misting with water to keep the wood moist.

Step 6: Scrub the Wood with Brightener Part 2, Rinse, and Let Dry
Scrub the wood again with a brush, going with the grain to create suds. Rinse thoroughly to remove all residue and let the wood dry completely before applying a finish.

Step 7: Apply an Oil Finish or Stain Once Dry
Once the deck or wood surface is clean, brightened, and fully dry, apply a protective finish. We recommend using Ipe Oil® products to enhance and preserve the natural beauty of the wood.