HOW TO USE DECKING OILS AND STAINS

Wooden decking is a beautiful addition to any garden space. It adds character, charm and can also be functional too. However, if you want your deck to last for many years, it is important that you look after the decking.

Over the months and years, the weather can cause damage to the wood, especially in this country where we have lots of rain! The water can saturate the wood and lead to it rotting. Oiling your decking can providing a protective layer that will prevent the rot. Oil can also help maintain some moisture in the decking so that it does not dry out causing it to crack or split resulting in splinters in your feet or hands.

Here are some tips to ensure your decking is oiled effectively:

1.       Thoroughly clean your decking using Ronseal Decking Cleaner. This will remove the dirt and grime before applying your oil. It will also help the oil to stick to the deck, so it'll look great for longer. Make sure you remove any loose flaky bits of old oil with a scrubbing brush.

2.       Pour your decking oil or stain into a tray to make it easier to apply. A long brush is ideal for applying, however some people like to get down on their hands and knees and use a foam pad.

Going in the direction of the grain, apply the decking oil, making sure its well worked into the wood. Once the full area has been covered, leave for 5mins to penetrate.

You can use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess decking oil. Leave to dry for around 4 hours before applying a second coat.

3.       If you regularly brush your decking and keep clean of dirt and leaves, especially in the winter, it will save an even bigger job come the spring.

The difference between a decking oil and stain is that oil soaks into the wood and enhances its natural beauty. Using a decking stain will cover the natural grain so not ideal if you want to show off the wood. However, you can get some modern colours to give a more contemporary look so if that’s what you prefer then staining is the option for you. Follow the same process as cleaning the decking and applying the stain. Apply a second coat for a long lasting finish.