Together we’ll go through the ins and outs of applying decking oil and detail exactly how to coat a deck to last in these tough Australian climates.

Before We Start Applying Decking Oil

There are a number of tools we need to correctly paint a deck with decking oil and it’s best to organise all your tools and products before hand.

• 120 Grit Sand Paper
• Soft Bristle Broom
• A brush at least 63mm wide
• Roller Tray
• Extension Pole
• Lamb’s Wool Decking Applicator
• 4L Tin Of Oil Based Decking Clear Coat such as Solver Decking Oil (adjust amount as required)
• A Broad Paddled Mixing Tool (something that can reach the bottom of the can)
• Pair of Socks (or you can go barefoot if your prefer)
• Turpentine (for cleaning the brush and applicator)

Preparing Your Deck For Coating

Depending on if you’re a do-it-yourself deck builder or if you’re using a professional builder and coating it yourself there will likely be a lot of pencil marks or chalk lines left over from measuring.

While there is really no need to sand the entire deck, it’s important to sand off all of these markings to ensure they don’t show through in the finished product.

Handy Tip: Using your 120 grit sand paper make sure you sand with the grain. This also goes for any nice timber surface you intend to clear coat.

Next, grab your soft bristled broom and give the deck a thorough sweep off to get rid of any dust or dirt.

If you’re on a second story, make sure you lay a sheet over anything underneath the deck you would want to protect from stray drips of decking oil.

Coating Your Deck With Decking Oil

I recommend coating the deck in either your socks or bare feet. This tip alone could save you a lot of tears – the last thing you want on your lovely new deck is a shoe print!

Pour some decking oil into the roller tray trying not to overfill it.

First step, using your brush, cut in around the edges of your deck (cutting in means making a border). This means we don’t have to go all the way to the edge with the applicator which can cause runs.

Now using your lamb’s wool decking applicator, dip it into the decking oil in your roller tray and proceed to do 3 to 4 boards at a time going from one end of the deck to the other.

You should aim to complete at least 3 coats of decking oil with 24 hours between coats.

Maintaining Your Decking Oil

Due to weather, wear and tear, dirt and grime your deck will need recoating to keep it maintained to that new look.

If your deck is kept clean and stain free this will make it an easier job.

Depending on the positioning of the deck, expect to recoat approximately 2 to 4 times per year. Obviously a sunny spot will need recoating more than a nice shady deck.

You can reduce this, but expect more work to get it back to it’s original state.

Congratulations, You Now Have A Pristine Deck

A deck that’s been freshly coated in decking oil can really enhance the natural beauty of the exterior timber decking.

A good decking oil will be formulated to highlight the timber grain and produce a natural timber-look finish.

I hope this guide has been helpful and remember, I’m always just a phone call away if the job becomes too big or you are after a professional quality finish.

Next article: How To Clear Coat Your Stairs With Decking Oil

Typically, the outside of your home will require re-painting every 5 years or so. Using these cleaning tips, you’ll be able to extend that up to ten years.

Before you say it, yes I know giving away this information is probably taking business away from me, but I feel it’s more important to be honest and keep my clients informed about how they can keep their outdoor paintwork in top condition.

Tip 1: Scrubbing Your Soffits

The soffits on a house are the fibro sheeting you find normally facing directly downwards when you look up to your eaves. In most cases these are painted a lighter colour than the rest of the paintwork and as such mold and grime is more visible.

Scrub the soffits on your house with sugar soap at least once a year to keep the mould away.

Tip 2: Insects and Nest Removal

Insects love making nests around your home and as such their little homes contribute to eroding your paintwork.

Clear cobwebs from the corners and around drain pipes as often as possible. I recommend investing in a cobweb clearing stick if you’re living in a two story house, otherwise just use a broom.

Mud wasps and paper wasps are also very common in Brisbane due to the climate. These nests contain all sorts of mud, sap and even decomposing spiders which will damage your paintwork. Clear them away as soon as you notice them or call your local pest control service if it’s too large a nest.

Tip 3: Wall Washing

Dirt and grime eat away at paint and encourage mould growth. The whole problem can be avoided by setting aside a small amount of time every 6 months or so to wash the exterior walls and windows.

Use a small amount of sugar soap along with water from a hose. Scrub the walls gently with a soft bristled broom. In doing this you will be surprised with the difference it makes even to aged paintwork.

Summary

Hopefully I’ve inspired a few of you to be more proactive about protecting your outdoor paintwork and getting the most for your money. The longer you stretch out the paint by keeping it in good condition the more you will save in the long run. Consider it an investment.

If you would like more information about painting the exterior of your home in Brisbane or any other painting needs, contact Keigher Painting & Decorating now.