I'm stripping latex off my second story deck (8x38). I've stripped approximately a 12x8' section using 2 gal of Jomax Stain & Finish Deck Stripper. (This should have been enough to do 200 sqft instead of 90) While it says it will remove latex finishes, this product isn't exactly made to remove paint - but it has worked, slowly - dwell times of 1-2 hours instead of 15 minutes. It is also $20 per gal and I'd need 6 or 7 gals to complete the surface.
Since this, and most deck finish and paint strippers, are just Lye (Sodium Hydroxide) and a surfactant, what would a recommended ratio be to make my own solution? 1-2 oz lye to 1 gal - Stronger?
What surfactant - Tri-sodium phosphate? Dawn?
I'll whip something up tomorrow one way or another, so any pointers is appreciated.
I'll be neutralizing with oxalic acid.
I'm open to other recommendations for stripping that does not involve sanding or scraping.
[Of course, eye, skin, hearing, and respiratory protection will be worn throughout... ;)]