How to preserve your decking

Once you have built the perfect outdoor space using high-quality timber decking, you’ll want to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. A well-built deck can withstand years of use and weathering without succumbing to wear and tear.

In that regard, a skilled deck builder can ensure that the deck is constructed with high-quality materials and proper structural support to prevent warping, cracking, and other types of damage. They will also pay attention to important details like proper drainage and ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and decay. This is why hiring a good deck builder is essential for increasing the longevity of your deck. So, if you are in need of a new deck, you can search for “deck builders near me” on the internet to find an appropriate decking contractor.

That being said, regular maintenance and upkeep are crucial for extending the life of a deck. To protect your outdoor timber surfaces the best thing you can do is to use a high-quality oil-based preservative for wood. It is also recommended that you use a preservative that has built-in UV inhibitors. This makes your decking last a lot longer and stays looking new for a long time.

Outdoor timber decks are among the most beautiful additions you can make to your home. However, to keep it lustrous and clean, it needs to be maintained frequently. One way to go about this is by installing deck covers. You could also try oiling the deck, but, before you begin oiling a deck for the first time, there are a few things you should know. The preparation for oiling your deck might differ depending on whether it is new or has been a part of your home for many years. If you have recently had a new deck installed around your home, it may be tempting to oil it right away to remove the dullness and bring it to a gleaming shine. However, before you begin oiling your new deck, you can check with your timber supplier or solely look for someone nearby who can do the oiling for you for the first time, merely by searching “Deck Oiling perth” or for any other location.

Oils are not like paint and penetrate the wood deeply to protect it from moisture throughout the timber. It eventually evaporated out of the pores and leaves it then unprotected. Because of this, it is important that your recoat the decking beams every 12 to 18 months.

When you oil horizontal surfaces the fluid can easily puddle and collect in scuffs and grooves and then be transferred onto your feet, shoes, furniture and pets etc. To avoid the puddling effect of too much oil, only use as much preservative as you need to cover and soak the planks without them puddling and becoming too wet.

Use back-brushing to help force the oil into the timber decking and never use a nylon brush with anything oil-based.

You can make your own wood preservative using:

  • Mildicide
  • Pigment (The same used to colour paint)
  • Mineral Spirits
  • Boiled Linseed Oil

Use equal parts of mineral spirits and linseed oil and add the pigment to your desired strength. Then add in the mildicide as if it was being added to an equal volume of paint.