Replies

1. 
   HowardAcheson | Apr 30, 2006 10:49pm | #1

   As always, it matters what kind of stain it is and what it is covered with.

   In general, you can use a paint stripper.  Use one that contains methylene chloride if you want to be sure it will work completely and quickly.  Look for the one that has the longest list of cautions on the label.  Follow the label instuctions and you will be fine.

   Once you have done the above, you may find yourself lucky and all the coloring will be gone.  If the stain was a pigment stain, the paint remover will remove almost all and some light sanding should clean it up.  If however, a dye was used, then you will have to bleach the dye out.  Use a fresh bottle of Clorox or much better and faster, swimming pool chlorine.  Once you have the color out, you can do whatever you want.

   Howie.........
2. 
   DonC | May 01, 2006 10:29pm | #2

   Howie's advice is dead-on. One little tip that helps. Add a few drops of conventional dish soap to the bleach. This helps reduce the "surface tension" of the wood and allows bleach to do it's thing better.

   By the way, adding a little soap to any grow/prevent products that goe on your lawn or garden will result in immediate results.