Oil and Your New Deck
Whether your deck is brand new, needing some TLC or in need of full restoration, oiling is extremely important in protecting the timber and can really help it to stand out.
When to Oil Your New Deck
At Pacific Patios, our consultants recommend you wait 4-6 weeks before oiling your new deck. This period of time allows your deck to settle and release the natural oils contained within the timber. These natural oils are beneficial to the life of your deck.
After this time, oiling becomes an important step in sustaining your new outdoor living space.
The Importance of Regular Oiling Your Deck
The importance of oiling your deck is often understated, but the positives that come from regular upkeep of your deck are invaluable.
Oiling your deck keeps it from weathering too quickly. This occurs as the oil soaks into the timber and keeps water, dust and dirt out. As a result, your deck will stay in tip top condition for longer, and the natural ageing of your timber will be slowed.
Oiling makes subtle changes to the look of your decking too, giving you the opportunity to change the shade of the natural timber that your deck has been built in.
What can Happen when Regular Deck Oiling isn’t Performed?
If regular oiling and maintenance is not performed on your deck, there can be some unpleasant consequences.
In most circumstances, it’s just a case of natural deterioration over time resulting in fading, warping and weakening of the timber.
If that is not bad enough, in some shady or wet locations mould or fungus can intrude. Mould and fungi are not only ugly, but can pose a health hazard. If you see any signs of these on your deck, it’s time to think about doing some maintenance!
How Often Do I Oil My Deck?
Within the deck building industry, it is usually recommended that decks need to be oiled once every 6-12 months. This varies depending on factors such as orientation, use, climate and whether or not it is exposed to the elements A deck with a covered roof and weatherproof blinds will as one would expect require less maintenance that one fully exposed to the elements.
A great way to check whether or not your deck is in need of oiling just requires you to splash some water onto the timber. If you can see the water absorbing into the timber, this is a pretty strong indicator that your deck needs to be oiled. If the water beads up and stays on the surface, your decking oil is doing its job.
How To Oil your Deck
If you are restoring an older deck, it may be wise to check if sanding is required. Sanding is very useful for freshening up the surface of the deck, removing the older and more weathered exterior. If you think that this is required, you can watch a handy tutorial. (https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/outdoor/decking/how-to-sand-a-deck).
If sanding is not necessary, it is still very important that the deck is given a deep clean before applying oil to your decking boards. T
Cleaning Your Deck
his can be done by first sweeping the deck, and using a high pressure cleaner. Be careful, and be sure not to damage the timber! Spray from an appropriate distance and pay attention to where you are spraying. If you don’t have one of these, a hose can be used in its place. Scrub the deck with a hard bristled brush and some deck cleaning liquid to remove the tougher dirt and dust. Spraying the deck down a second time removes this from the deck surface.
After letting the deck dry completely, use masking tape to cover any surfaces that you wish to protect while oiling.
Applying Decking Oil
Use a decking oil applicator or a soft, clean broom to liberally apply the decking oil of your choice to the deck. Use long, smooth strokes and cover the planks completely. Apply two coats, and allow to dry completely before using. It’s just that simple!
Pacific Patios
If we have built a beautiful deck for you, please do not forget the importance of maintaining your deck. We at Pacific Patios recommend using Cabot’s products. We would love to hear from you if you have any more questions!
Pacific Patios are carport, deck and patio builders on the Gold Coast