Reoiling your deck can sound like a colossal undertaking, especially since outdoor projects can often be complicated by less-than-ideal weather conditions (we’re looking at you, Mother Nature!). But with the right planning and preparation, you can have your deck renewed and ready in just a weekend. Our trusty guide will keep you on track to have your deck revitalised in a weekend so you can get back to what you do best - entertaining!
Pre Coating Preparation
Check the weather forecast! It seems simple, but you want to make sure you have clear weather for a few days prior to starting your deck project. The ideal temperature to reoil your deck is between 10° and 35° Celsius, and your project should be postponed if there is rain coming your way, or if the humidity is too high.
Clear your deck by removing all deck furniture, plants, BBQ and appliances that may get in the way of achieving a perfect new coating.
If your deck is raised and you have items stored underneath, take the time to cover anything stored under the deck with a plastic drop sheet. This will protect your belongings or plants from having any excess decking oil dripping on them.
Timber Preparation
Time to prep your deck! Your deck may require a bit of prep-work, depending on what condition the timber is in.
If mould is present or the deck is in a mould-prone area, the first prep step is treating the timber with Intergrain UltraPrep Mould Killer. Mix 800g of Mould Killer into 8L of warm water, and scrub onto deck using a stiff bristle brush. Leave to soak into the timber for 15 minutes, adding more if the solution starts to dry on the timer. Rinse off with a high pressure hose and follow the next preparation steps according to the condition of your current coating.
Existing Intergrain UltraDeck coat in good condition
Sweep the deck to remove any dirt or debris, and hose down with water. Mix 1 part Intergrain UltraPrep Timber Cleaner with 4 parts water and apply generously, scrubbing vigorously with a stiff bristle brush or broom. Leave for 10-15 minutes to allow the cleaning solution to penetrate the timber before cleaning off with a high pressure hose.
Existing Intergrain UltraDeck coat in poor condition
Sweep the deck to remove any dirt or debris, and hose down with water. Apply UltraPrep Tannin & Oil Remover undiluted to the timber with a stiff bristle brush, broom, or spray and leave for 10-15 minutes to soak in. Don’t allow the UltraPrep Tannin & Oil Remover to dry on the surface - add more product if the timber starts to dry out. Scrub vigorously with a stiff broom before hosing off with a high pressure cleaner. Follow up by cleaning the deck with Intergrain UltraPrep Timber Cleaner following the instructions above.
Existing Coating in varied condition
If your deck has weathered and deteriorated unevenly, strip or sand the deck back to bare timber, allowing the new coating to be applied evenly. Clean the deck with Intergrain UltraPrep Timber Cleaner following the instructions above.
Always allow your timber deck to dry completely before applying your decking oil.
Application
- Thoroughly stir the Intergrain UltraDeck Timber Oil or Intergrain UltraDeck Slip Resistant Decking Oil before and during application.
- Intergrain UltraDeck Timber Oil can be applied using the Intergrain DeckBrush (recommended), flat deck applicator, paint brush or spray. Do not use a roller.
- Intergrain UltraDeck Slip Resistant can be applied with the Intergrain DeckBrush (recommended), flat deck applicator, applicator or paint brush. Do not spray or use a roller.
- Apply your first coat by working in sections, applying long strokes going with the timber’s grain and using natural breaks in the timber as stopping points.
- Leave the first coat to dry for at least three hours before applying a second coat. Two coats is required for Intergrain UltraDeck, however a third coat is recommended for timber that is exposed to harsh conditions – full sun exposure, around pools and in humid areas.
- After applying the final coat, leave your deck to dry for a full 12 hours.
Drying Guidelines
- Recoat: 3 hour
- Deck Use: 12 hours
- Full curing: 7 days
Once you have waited the full 12 hours for the final deck coat to dry, you can start to walk on your deck and start putting all your furniture and appliances back in place. Try to avoid the dragging your belongings across your freshly oiled surfaced, and lift-and-place your belongings only.
Maintenance
We recommend re-coating your timber deck every 12 months to ensure it’s kept spick ’n span. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to redo your deck, check out our guide here: Check Your Deck: Is it Time for a Refresh?
And there you have it! A handy and easy guide to getting your deck reoiled in a weekend. The actual time it will take to finish your project will depend on the size of your deck, the number of coats and how motivated you are.