oxalic acid

[Dan_574]

Dont know if I spelt it right but has anyone used this to restore a weathered timber deck. The brand of timber cleaners from cabots, feast and watson etc have 10% acid in their mix but it costs $15/liter whereas straight acid crystals cost only $9 a half kg, which I think will work out cheaper when I have 200m2 of deck to do. Has anyone got any tips or traps to avoid.

[echnidna]

It will completely eliminate the weather gray from timber.
Use gloves etc, eye protection also very worthwhile.
As it looks just like sugar be sure to properly lable it and keep it in a very safe place

[Jacksin]

I think I have used this stuff in a leadlight course I did a few years ago, but I cant remember what it did. Oh well another senior moment I suppose!!
Jack ;)

[maglite]

The easiest way to use is to head to your nearest chemical manufacturer and buy it pre-mixed.
It has been a while since i last used it but PPE requirements were saftey glasses, mask, rubber boots and leather or PVC apron.
Oxalic is also very good at removing oxide stains caused by bore water.
We just brushed it on using a kichen broom, but you may need something coarser like a BBQ brush, it crystalises as it dries and simply hose it off.

Hope this helps
Steve

[Chesand]

If you mix it yourself make it a 10% solution.
As the others have said re safety

[Dan_574]

i think i will buy the crystals and mix my own, dont know what other goodies the cabots etc deck clean has in it but for the price I think i will stick with the crystals.

[Theva]

Oxalic acid & benzyl ammonium choloride or similar; its an algicide, try / check pool treatment products.

Cheers,
Theva

[journeyman Mick]

Don't mix it too strong or leave it on too long as it will stain your timber a lovely shade of "urine yellow" :eek:

Mick