Hot-tub manufacturers advocate staining the wood cabinet surrounding the tub at least four occasions each year if the tub is outdoors, but only twice a year if it’s inside. Because the tub is exposed to different elements, the wood could deteriorate and dry out. Refinishing the outside surface provides years to the cabinet by removing mildew stains, so protecting the wood from wear and refreshing the finish.
Wash the outside of the hot tub cabinet with a deck wash. Pour the appropriate amount of concentrated deck wash into a garden sprayer after the dilution directions on the tag. Attach the sprayer into a garden hose and spray on the outside of the cabinet with the wash. Let the wash remain on the surface for about 10 minutes, then rinse with clean water. Allow the cabinet to dry.
Pour blot and finish remover into a bucket. Wear gloves and use a paintbrush to paint the outside of the hot tub cabinet liberally with the remover, covering only 1 side at one time. Let the remover sit for about 30 minutes, then scrape on the cabinet with a putty knife to remove the loosened finish. Repeat on the remaining sides of this hot tub cabinet.
Dip an abrasive mat into a small container filled with mineral spirits. Scrub the outside of the cabinet to eliminate any finish residue. Allow the cabinet to dry thoroughly.
Pour fresh stain and finish remover into a bucket. Paint over the cabinet outside again with a clean brush, and let it remain on the surface for 10 minutes. Rub a wet stripping pad in a circular motion to remove the blot from the outside of the cabinet.
Rinse the outside of the hot tub cabinet with a rag dipped in water, rinsing a tiny area at one time. Allow the cabinet to dry.
Use a handheld oscillating tool armed with a fine-grit sanding accessory. Sand the outside of the hot tub cabinet to smooth the surface.
Paint the cabinet with a weatherproof deck stain. Allow the stain to dry and apply a second coat if necessary. Allow the stain to dry thoroughly.
Paint over the blot with a sealer designed for outdoor wood surfaces to protect against water damage. Use a paintbrush. Allow the surface to dry and apply a second coat to the cabinet.