A timber deck is the perfect place to enjoy outdoor living at its best, and if shown the right love and care can remain in top-notch condition for years to come. Here are our top tips on looking after your timber deck.
Clear your deck of any initial debris
First, clear your deck of all objects. Then, give it a sweep to remove big bits of dirt and debris. Use a soft, bristled brush for a gentle touch. Remember not to use too much power since that can end up harming your deck instead.
Clean your deck to avoid the build-up of mould
Your deck is exposed to the elements and undergoes wear and tear just like everything else. If you let leaves sit on it for too long, you’ll find specks of discolouration, which can also lead to mould.
Select a cleaning solution that is right for your deck. There are separate products for composite decks and wood decks.
You don’t need to spend too long giving it a scrub down. Just be careful that the bristles on your brush don’t scratch up the boards.
Once you’re done, rinse everything off with a hose. If you forget any suds, they can stick and cause discolouration. So you’ll definitely want to avoid that.
Check over your deck regularly
Check your deck over for loose and cracked boards. Over time, some boards grow loose, and you may find nails sticking out. Hammer them back into place, and re-fix any loose boards.
You don’t want anyone stepping on stray nails, after all especially if you have kids or pets.
Seal your timber deck yearly
Decks need to be sealed at least once a year. But how can you tell if you need another coat or if you’re wasting your time?
Just splash a little water on the boards. If the water slips off the boards, your coat is fine and doing its job. If the water sinks into the board, then your coating is no longer effective.
There are 2 options for sealing your deck: oiling or staining. Both provide protection from UV rays, which can cause cracking and shrinkage of your timber decking. However, staining also allows you to alter the colour of your deck at the same time.
Sealing helps you protect the boards from sun and water damage. A timber deck that doesn’t get sealed will need premature replacement later on since it’s vulnerable to heat.
The kind of sealer you use depends on your deck, so consult your decking supplier to determine which one is right for you. To seal your deck, you will need a roller, paintbrush, or sprayer for application. If you are opting to oil your deck, you should use a lambs wool deck applicator.
Finally, before applying your sealer, be sure to check the weather forecast. A single coat is generally enough in most cases, however, if you wish to apply a second coat, allow 24 hours of drying time.
Once you’re done, give the sealant 48 hours to settle, and you’re ready to use your deck again!