Day 1

DAY 1
Cleaning and power washing. For decks, remove everything: grills, furniture and planters. Try to remove grease stains by scrubbing them with a solution of dish soap and hot water. Spray wood with water. Mix wood cleaner in a 5-gallon bucket. Redwood usually needs a special cleaner. Try to use a nonbleach cleaner (bleach will kill plants and grass) or use dropcloths to protect landscaping. Clean any overspray immediately with a soapy, wet rag. Spray cleanser on wood with an applicator and allow it to stay on about 20 minutes before removing it with a power washer or a garden hose.
DAY 2
Sealing. Make sure wood is dry. Test by putting a few droplets of water onto the wood. If water absorbs into the wood in 1 to 2 seconds, it's ready for treatment. Set up dropcloths again. Apply water repellent sealer with a sponge mop. Treat vertical then horizontal surfaces. Use a brush to remove shoeprints or drip spots. Apply a second coat about 15 to 30 minutes later, while the first one is still wet.