Everett Abrams Wood Restorations / Marketing

The Wizard of Wood: Everett Abrams’ Standards for Deck Cleaning & Restoration

When it comes to exterior wood restoration and deck cleaning, few names carry as much authority as Everett Abrams, widely known in the industry as “The Wizard of Wood.” Through his company Deck Restoration Plus
, Everett has helped set the standards for deck cleaning and restoration, guiding contractors, homeowners, and associations alike—including those maintaining composite products like Trex decking.

Below is a breakdown of Everett’s proven process, rooted in decades of hands-on experience.

Step 1: Preparation

Before cleaning begins, proper preparation is critical. Everett recommends having:

Protective tarps, plastic sheeting, and blue tape to cover nearby surfaces.

The right equipment: pressure washer or garden hose with nozzles and sprayers.

Safety gear: gloves, boots, and glasses.

(Source: Deck Restoration Plus
)

Step 2: Pre-Wet the Wood

Everett stresses the importance of pre-wetting all wood surfaces before applying any cleaning solution. Keeping the wood damp ensures the cleaner or stripper works correctly while also protecting the surface from damage.

(Source: Deck Restoration Plus
)

Step 3: Cleaning / Stripping

Apply a cleaner or stripper to remove dirt, algae, and old finishes.

Let the solution dwell: usually ~10 minutes for cleaners and 20–30 minutes for strippers.

Dwell time depends on coating type, wood species, and weather conditions.

(Source: Deck Restoration Plus
)

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

Everett’s golden rule: “Rinse, rinse, and rinse again.”
Multiple rinses ensure that all product residue is removed, leaving the deck ready for brightening and staining.

(Source: Deck Restoration Plus
)

Step 5: Brightening

Brighteners restore the wood’s natural beauty and open the pores for better stain absorption. They can also remove rust or metal stains.

Apply brightener while the wood is still wet.

Let it dwell 10–30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

(Source: Deck Restoration Plus
)

Step 6: Drying & Staining

Once the deck is clean and brightened, it must dry completely before sealing or staining.

Follow the stain manufacturer’s drying recommendations.

Apply stain with a “wet edge” method to prevent lap marks.

Start with railings and work down to floors.

(Source: Deck Restoration Plus
)

Everett Abrams’ Four Key Rules

Everett’s full process is summarized in his Four Standards of Wood Restoration:

Pre-wet all wood surfaces.

Let the products do the work, not excessive pressure.

Rinse thoroughly—multiple times.

Finish with a protective stain or coating.

(Source: J. Racenstein Expert Advice
)

Why This Matters for Trex and Composite Decking

Although Trex and other composites differ from natural wood, many associations—such as HOA groups—have adopted Everett Abrams’ standards as a reference point because they emphasize safety, chemistry, and proper technique. The principles of pre-wetting, chemical reliance over high pressure, and thorough rinsing apply across both natural wood and composites.

Final Word

Everett Abrams didn’t earn the nickname “The Wizard of Wood” by chance. His straightforward yet highly effective process has shaped the industry’s best practices, ensuring decks—whether wood or composite—are cleaned, restored, and protected for years of enjoyment.

For more, visit Deck Restoration Plus
.
.