How Do I Clean Cedar or Redwood?

Frequently Asked Questions >

Frequently Asked Questions

Surface Preparation

Q: What do I use to clean Cedar or Redwood?

A: Because Cedar and Redwood contain natural tannin extractives that can produce dark colored surface stains, it is best to use a commercial cleaner that contains oxalic acid if you want to remove these stains. Oxalic acid contains the strength needed to strip away the tannin bleed as well as rust stains from nail bleed. WOLMAN makes a Deck & Fence Brightener formula specifically for Cedar and Redwood. Ask for it at your local WOLMAN products dealer.

NEVER use a pressure-washer alone to clean wood, since the pressure needed to lift the top surface layer and accompanying dirt and fungus stains will also gouge the surface, making it dangerous to touch and difficult to coat.

WOLMAN Cedar & Redwood Deck & Fence Brightener Technical Data Sheet