Deck Cleaning, Staining & Sealing in Lake County, IL
Restore Your Deck Without Replacing It
A weathered, gray deck doesn’t mean it’s time for a replacement. Most decks just need a proper cleaning, staining, and sealing to look brand new again. At Shine On Power Washing, we restore wood and composite decks throughout Lake County — saving you thousands compared to a full deck replacement.
Step 1 — Deck Cleaning
Before any stain or sealer goes on, your deck needs to be properly cleaned. We use low-pressure washing combined with professional-grade cleaning solutions that are safe for wood — no harsh bleach that can strip the natural color or damage the wood fibers.
After cleaning, we apply a wood brightener that neutralizes the cleaning solution and opens up the wood grain, bringing out the natural color of the wood. This step is what most DIYers skip — and it makes a huge difference. A brightened deck absorbs stain evenly and deeply, giving you a richer, longer-lasting finish.
Skipping proper prep is the number one reason DIY deck stain jobs fail. The stain simply won’t bond to a dirty or chemically unbalanced surface.
Step 2 — Deck Staining & Sealing
A lot of homeowners aren’t sure what the difference is between staining and sealing — and that’s completely normal. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Stain adds color back to your deck and protects the wood from UV damage and graying. It soaks into the wood rather than sitting on top, giving it a natural, rich look.
Sealer is a clear protective coat that waterproofs the surface and prevents mold, mildew, and moisture from penetrating the wood. It’s what keeps your deck looking good long after the job is done.
The good news? Many professional-grade products combine both into one — a stain/sealer that colors and protects in a single application. Depending on your deck’s condition and what it needs, we’ll recommend the right approach for your specific situation.
Signs Your Deck Needs Restoration
- Gray, weathered, or faded wood
- Green or black algae and mildew stains
- Water is no longer beading on the surface
- Peeling or flaking old stain
Wood & Composite Deck Restoration
We work on both wood decks — including pressure treated, cedar, and redwood — and composite decks. Each material gets the right products and techniques for the best result.
Deck Restoration Service Areas
We serve homeowners throughout Lake County, IL including:
Wauconda • Libertyville • Mundelein • Round Lake • Gurnee • Antioch
Get a Free Deck Restoration Quote
Call us or fill out the form below for a free, no-obligation estimate.
