Having a deck in your home is one of the biggest features that make your backyard functional. It is not only for entertaining your guests or relaxing but also for adds great value to your home. While building a deck is luxurious and aesthetic, you can enjoy its benefits only when you properly maintain it.
From regular cleaning to sanding, sealing and polishing – you have to give proper care to your deck to ensure its longevity, durability and aesthetics. One of the simple yet effective way to enhance your deck aesthetics is by deck oiling. When you do the oiling right, you can enhance the natural beauty of your timber deck while protecting it from harsh elements.
So, if you are wondering how to do the oiling, here is the blog that can help you navigate through the process.
Why Oiling Matters:
The timber deck is constantly exposed to various kinds of weather elements that have adverse effect on the surface. the harsh sun leads to the results like fading, warping, splitting and mould growth.
When you oil the surface, you can protect the surface and can prevent drying or cracking. If you live in a humid area, you can save the timber surface from the growth of mould and mildew. Oiling will also regain the natural shine and grain of the timber. Oiling is a part of deck maintenance that ensures the longevity of the deck.
Process of Oiling the Deck:
The Right Oil Matters
When choosing the oil, the right kind matters. There are both water-based and oil-based oils allowing you to choose the suitable one for your deck. Choose the water-based if you want the oil to dry faster. However, for long-lasting protection, you should use the oil-based penetration.
There are also tinted and clear finishes. The tinted one will give a new colour to the deck while a clear one will enhance the existing colour by giving it shine. You should also consider the type of wood used for your deck to choose the oil.
Deck Preparation
Before oiling, you have to prepare the deck. To do it, you have to clear the surface from the dirt, dust, debris and other furniture present on the deck. Clean the surface properly using soap water mix and ensure the deck is clear from visible stains and marks.
If the surface is more rough or uneven, consider sanding the deck before oiling as it will help even the deck. It will give you a fresh surface for better absorption. Lastly, allow the deck to dry completely before applying the oil.
Apply The Oil Carefully
Choose a dry day to do the oiling process. Avoid working under the direct sun or during rainfall to get the better application of oil. After picking the oil, ensure to mix it well to get even colour and consistency. Using the tools like applicator pad, lambswool applicator and quality brush, apply the oil properly. Always give priority to thin coats rather than thick ones as those can leave sticky patches. If there is any excess oil, wipe it off after 30 minutes. Consider professional deck oiling if you are still unsure about the process.
Deck Maintenance
Once the oil is applied, you have to maintain the deck surface properly to maintain your deck. It will stay in a top condition if you reapply oil for every 6-12 months. Clean the deck regularly and occasionally wash to have a smooth surface always.
Final Thoughts
You need to oil your deck regularly to get proper benefits from your deck. With the right tools and techniques, you can create a fresh surface to your deck that you can enjoy all-year round. It can also save your money from expensive maintenance repairs that come when you don’t oil it regularly. Enjoy a beautiful deck with just a simple task of oiling.