If you’ve got a brand new decking then the first thing you should be thinking of is how can you prolong its beauty and ensure it remains in top condition. Oiling your deck is one such way you can do this, if it’s your first time oiling a deck then there are some things you should know before you start the process.
Our best tips on how to do it right can be found in our comprehensive guide on how to oil your wooden deck. This guide to oiling your deck covers everything you need to know, including when you need the oil, how to know when to oil, the best oil to use and a step-by-step guide on how to use the oil for optimum results. Oiling your deck doesn’t have to be complicated or difficult, and the preparation you put into it will pay off significantly.
If your deck is new, the wood may have been treated with chemicals to prevent dirt from getting in. When it is colored, make sure to remove loose flakes and skins from the finish. If the coating is weathered, a floor cleaner can remove dirt, and green stains to improve the appearance of the applied oil. To test the timber oil, use a small patch and make sure you are satisfied with the results. Decks can be slippery with oil, so make sure they are dry before using them.
Ensure you clean your wooden deck with water or detergent with a standard cleaning solution before you decide to apply any oil. This is because for an oil stain to be effective, it must be able to penetrate deep into the wood surface. A major cause of problems with top coatings is the application of coatings not being on a clean surface. Deck surfaces should be oiled, cleaned and re-oiled every year to keep the wood protected
Applying a good quality oil is the most important thing you can do for the protection of your deck from water, dirt and sun damage, therefore you must ensure you apply an even coat onto the wood as regularly as required. Oils with natural ingredients tend to work better than synthetic oils because they are gentler and do not strip the wood’s natural properties away. It’s just about making sure the oil pushes through the wood, rather than leaving it on the surface.
It is best to apply the oil every 6 months or so to make your wooden decks look best. If your coating needs an oil treatment in summer or autumn, make sure you apply it before the rain to ensure that excess water has drained away before you apply it. Terrace oil is a nice alternative to lacquer or stain as it is a very friendly oil that maintains the natural color and surface of the wood
If you’d like to add character or really bring out the natural grain and beauty of your timber deck, then you could consider using a deck stain, Decking stain tends to be a paint product that coats the surface of the deck. It was designed primarily to change the colour of the floorboards and improve the appearance of the wood by emphasizing the natural grain. The best way to dye a deck is with a large roller brush, as it ensures uniform and easy application.
A new deck is a beautiful thing to behold, however it needs to be maintained with products if you’d like for it to remain this way. Follow the above tips to ensure your timber decking stays stunning all year around.
