How much does deck brightener and wood cleaner cost in New Brunswick?

Deck brightener and wood cleaner typically costs $15-35 per gallon in New Brunswick, with most homeowners spending $40-80 total to clean and brighten a standard 200 square foot deck.

The cost depends on the product type and where you shop. Basic wood cleaners like Thompson's WaterSeal or Behr deck cleaners run $15-25 per gallon at Canadian Tire, Home Depot, or Kent Building Supplies. Premium oxygen bleach cleaners and specialized deck brighteners from brands like Cabot, Sikkens, or Benjamin Moore range $25-35 per gallon.

Most products cover 150-300 square feet per gallon depending on the wood's condition. A typical deck cleaning project in NB requires both a cleaner (to remove dirt, mildew, and old stain) and a brightener (to neutralize the cleaner and restore the wood's natural pH). You'll usually need one gallon of each for a standard 12x16 deck.

New Brunswick's Maritime climate makes deck cleaning especially important before staining. Our high humidity promotes mildew growth, particularly on north-facing deck surfaces that don't get direct sun. The freeze-thaw cycles also drive dirt and contaminants deep into the wood grain, requiring thorough cleaning to ensure proper stain adhesion.

Timing is critical in NB — deck cleaning and brightening should only be done between mid-May and September when temperatures stay consistently above 10°C. The wood needs 24-48 hours to dry completely before applying stain, and you need several rain-free days. Many homeowners clean in late May or early June, then stain in July or August during our most stable weather.

Popular products available in NB include:

• Thompson's WaterSeal Deck Cleaner ($18-22/gallon)


• Behr Premium All-in-One Wood Cleaner ($20-25/gallon)


• Cabot Problem-Solver Deck Cleaner ($25-30/gallon)


• Benjamin Moore Restore Deck Cleaner ($28-35/gallon)

For pressure-treated lumber that's been weathering for 3-6 months (the recommended wait time before first staining), a good cleaning and brightening is essential. The process removes the surface oxidation that prevents stain penetration and ensures your new stain will last the full 2-3 years in our challenging climate.

Professional deck cleaning services charge $3-6 per square foot if you prefer to hire the work out, which includes power washing, cleaning, brightening, and proper disposal of the cleaning solution.

Need help finding a deck contractor for cleaning, staining, or repairs? New Brunswick Decks can match you with local professionals who understand our climate's specific requirements.