A timber deck is a big part of outdoor living in Brisbane, but sun, rain and foot traffic wear down the finish quickly. Regular care keeps the timber looking good and helps prevent splitting, greying and rot.
Signs your deck needs attention
- The timber has turned grey or looks dry and patchy.
- Water soaks in instead of beading on the surface.
- The previous coating is peeling or worn through in high-traffic areas.
- Boards are cracking, splintering or cupping.
Oil, stain or paint?
Decking oils soak into the timber and give a natural look. They’re easy to maintain but need recoating more often, especially in full sun.
Stains add colour and can help the timber look more even, while still showing the grain.
Paints are more common on handrails, balustrades and steps than on deck boards, as foot traffic can wear a painted surface quickly.
Preparation makes the difference
A good result starts with a clean surface. That usually means washing and degreasing the boards, removing any failing coating, sanding rough or grey timber back, and letting the deck dry fully before coating. Applying oil or stain over dirty or damp timber is the most common reason a finish doesn’t last.
How often should you recoat?
It depends on the product, the timber and how much sun and traffic the deck gets. As a general rule, check your deck at least once a year and recoat when the surface starts to look dry or water no longer beads. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for your product is the best guide.
Let us take care of it
We clean, prepare and coat decks, stairs and outdoor areas across Brisbane. See some of our recent work in our project gallery, or ask for a free quote. Call 0414 334 519.