I have a few questions.
1. I've powerwashed my 20 year old cedar deck. The last application of stain (Cabot, I think) was probably 5 years ago. Do I need to clean AND brighten, or just brighten?
2. I probably need to strip (and clean and/or brighten per the answer to #1) the railings, particularly the spindles because I couldn't powerwash the spindle sides that faced each other. I know you can't give me a definitive answer, but is it typically sufficient to spray on stripper and then powerwash? Maybe twice?
3. I bought a recommended pad applicator. Is that ok for both coats or do I have to "back-brush". If so, what is "back-brushing"?
4. There is a stained area where the grill was. I expect I need to sand it (if stripping doesn't do anything). I know you're not a fan of sanding because it closes the grain. Is the brightener sufficient to re-open the grain?
Thanks for all your help.