CARING FOR YOUR TIMBER DECKING

What is the condition of your decking?

What condition is your decking?

If it’s newly laid, we recommend leaving it to weather naturally
for about six months before being stained or oiled.

If it’s untreated, over six months old or previously stained or painted,
you can start your restoration project.

Stains - Deck stains are more opaque than paint, so you can still see the natural wood grain with a layer of gorgeous colour. Some can also protect and waterproof decking in one so read the labels carefully.

Before you start your chosen treatment, give your decking a good clean. A special cleaner and reviver is designed to restore the wood and remove moss, mould, and algae.

If your decking has layers of previous paint and you want to go back to a more natural wood look, sand them down using a belt or palm sander. This only works for smooth boards and not grooved ones. Always sand in the direction of the grain/ deck board.

Apply your decking cleaner directly to the wood and start scrubbing it with a scrubbing brush. Rinse off thoroughly with clean water. Using a pressure washer on the minimum level will give you a great finish.

Allow the deck boards to dry for at least 24 hours before applying any paint or stain.

Brushes are great for fiddly areas, such as between expansion gaps, and so can be a helpful addition to other tools. However, by themselves, they can take a long time to get the job done.

To work more quickly, consider a roller. These allow for greater coverage in one application than a brush and can be fitted with extension poles for ease and comfort.

Like a roller, a paint pad can also be used with a pole and works well applying stain to both grooved and smooth decking. Paint sprayers are the ultimate in convenience and use less product, and are also the quickest choice.

Treating your decking

• Cover any nearby surfaces with dust sheets to avoid splashes.
• Give your chosen deck paint, oil, or stain a really good stir before applying to make sure you get a consistent colour.
       Pour the product into the tray or bucket. Start in the furthest corner to ensure you have an exit path and work your way back from the painted deck.
• Leave to dry and then apply further coats as needed.