The secret to deck restoration & staining for cedar is using the right method, not the most pressure. In Lansing, MI, we match the cleaner and pressure to the surface so it comes out clean without damage. On cedar, the method we use is low-pressure wash.
Method and pressure
Cleaning solution: A wood cleaner and brightener suited to cedar.
Caring for cedar
Cedar decks and fences turn silver-gray as the surface weathers. Gentle cleaning with a wood cleaner and brightener brings back the color, and a penetrating stain keeps it longer.
Avoid: High pressure, which gouges the soft wood and raises the grain.
How often: Clean yearly; refinish every 2-3 years.
Signs you need deck restoration & staining for cedar
- Stain peeling, flaking or worn through in traffic areas
- Gray wood that soaks up water
- Cracking, splitting or splinters
- Black spots that come back after washing
Where the grime comes from
- UV breaking down the stain and wood surface
- Film-forming stains that peel instead of wearing
- Water standing on boards
- Mildew feeding on old finish
Easy upkeep between cleanings
- Do the 'water drop test': if water soaks in instead of beading, the wood needs sealing
- Replace or fasten loose boards and popped nails first
- Keep the deck clean between finishes
Not sure what you're looking at? The free stain identifier and safe pressure guide explain each stain and surface.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Stain over dirty or damp wood, which peels quickly
- Stripping with too much pressure
- Mixing incompatible old and new stains
- Staining in direct hot sun, which leaves lap marks
Our process for deck restoration & staining for cedar
- Inspect the deck and the old finish and choose a stain with you
- Clean or strip the old finish
- Brighten the wood and let it dry fully
- Sand rough spots where needed
- Apply a penetrating stain or sealer and allow it to cure
How much does deck restoration & staining for cedar cost?
What moves the price:
- Size: square footage of siding, roof or flatwork
- Condition: heavy growth, old stains and peeling finishes take longer
- Access: number of stories, roof pitch, slopes and how close we can park
- Add-ons: sealing, gutter brightening and other services done in the same trip
These are typical U.S. ranges, not a quote. You get an exact price before any work starts. For a quick estimate, try the pressure washing cost calculator.
Other services for cedar
Deck Restoration & Staining for Cedar in Lansing, MI
Decks and fences in Michigan spend months under snow, and the short summer is the only window to clean and refinish them. Plan deck staining for a stretch of dry days above about 50°F.
Besides Lansing (ZIP codes 48901, 48906, 48908, 48909, 48910 and more), we handle deck restoration & staining for cedar in Edgemont Park (2.2 mi), Waverly (3.3 mi), East Lansing (3.6 mi) and Okemos (6.5 mi). Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote in Lansing.
Deck Restoration & Staining for Cedar: frequently asked questions
How much does deck restoration & staining for cedar cost in Lansing, MI?
Deck Restoration & Staining for Cedar typically costs $800-$2,500 for a typical 200-400 sq ft deck with rails, and usually takes 1-2 days including dry time. The exact price depends on the size and condition, and you get it before any work starts. Call (555) 010-0000 for a free quote.
Do you use high pressure for deck restoration & staining for cedar?
For cedar: usually 500-800 PSI; cedar is soft and marks easily. What we avoid: high pressure, which gouges the soft wood and raises the grain. The cleaning solution does most of the work, followed by a gentle rinse.
Is deck restoration & staining for cedar safe for my plants and pets?
We pre-wet plants and lawns, keep cleaning solutions diluted to what the surface needs, and rinse landscaping again when we finish. Keep pets and children inside until surfaces are rinsed and dry.
How often should I schedule deck restoration & staining for cedar?
Clean yearly; refinish every 2-3 years. Shade, nearby trees, humidity and heavy traffic mean more frequent cleaning; sunny, dry spots can go longer. Our free cleaning frequency tool gives a recommendation for your climate.
What if it rains on the day?
Light rain doesn't stop most washing, but heavy rain, high wind, lightning and freezing temperatures do, and sealers and stains need dry weather to cure. If the weather isn't right, we reschedule at no charge. Our work is backed by a satisfaction guarantee.