How to Oil a Timber Deck

Written by: Peter Harrison

Category: General

Published: December 5, 2023

Over time, the natural oils in timber become depleted and your deck loses its lustre. Oiling a timber deck regularly restores its colour and makes it stronger, preventing cracking and splitting from foot traffic and weathering. It also protects against moisture and mould, fungus and algae growth.

The type of decking timber you have will determine how often it needs to be oiled. Some types of timber (such as Jarrah) require more frequent oiling than others (such as treated pine). However, all decks should be oiled to prevent the build-up of mould and mildew and to prolong their life and beauty.

You need to be very careful when choosing a decking oil, as some deck oiling Bangalow contain chemicals that are toxic to children and pets. The best oil to use is a water-based treatment that will add a natural tint to the timber without darkening it and will last for up to five years. Two high-quality water-based treatments we recommend are Intergrain’s UltraDeck Timber Oil and Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro, both of which can be purchased in 10l cans.

Once you’ve decided to go with a water-based treatment, it is crucial that the deck is completely dry before the first coat is applied. If the deck is still damp, it will absorb the oil poorly and may start to flake or peel off prematurely. You should check the drying times in the instructions on the tin, as they will vary depending on the brand.

During the sanding process, it is very important that you do not sand too finely or smooth, as this will close the surface of your timber and prevent the oil from absorbing deep into it. It is also recommended to avoid sanding on a hot day as this can cause the timber to heat up and crack.

It is a common misconception that some kinds of timber, such as hardwood, do not need to be oiled. However, all timbers, even hardwoods, require regular care to keep them in good condition and to prevent greying and weathering. This includes sanding, staining or oiling.

When your deck needs to be restored, you will need to remove any mildew or mould and then sand the entire deck to prepare it for the oiling. If you are not confident in doing this yourself, it is a good idea to have a professional do the job for you. A qualified landscaper, such as Christies Landscaping, will know how long to leave the deck before re-oiling it and can advise you on the best products for your unique timber. An expert will also be able to tell you whether your deck requires a second coat of oil and will be able to give you a quote for the work.