Waterproofing 101: Protecting Decking Before BBQ Season
Date: 24th June 2025
Categories: Barrettine, Products
As the days grow longer and the promise of summer entertaining beckons, now is the perfect time to turn your attention to one of the most important garden maintenance tasks: protecting decking.
Whether you're a trade professional advising customers or a DIY enthusiast preparing for the BBQ season, proper deck protection is essential for ensuring your outdoor space remains beautiful, safe, and durable for years to come.
At Barrettine, we have all of the products needed to achieve a professional finish, and we are armed with over 145 years of industry experience and expertise to help you get the best out of your timber decking.
Why spring is the ideal time for protecting decking
The weeks leading up to BBQ season present the optimal window for protecting decking. After the harsh winter months, timber decking requires attention to address any weather damage and prepare for increased summer use. Spring's milder temperatures and typically drier conditions create perfect working conditions for cleaning and applying protective treatments.
Starting your restoration project now means your deck will be fully cured and ready for those first hot summer days when friends and family gather for outdoor gatherings.
Understanding the threats to your outdoor decking
Moisture is the primary enemy of wooden decking and deck boards. When water penetrates the surface of the wood, it can cause timber to swell, warp, and gradually deteriorate. This water damage doesn't just affect appearance – it compromises the structural integrity of your entire deck.
Excess moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for rot, mould, algae, and mildew. These biological threats don't just cause unsightly staining; they actively break down the timber fibres, leading to splitting, warping and eventual failure of the decking boards. Even composite decking isn't immune to these issues, though it may be more resistant than natural timber.
UV radiation presents another significant challenge. Without adequate UV protection, even the most beautiful wood will fade and turn grey, losing the natural beauty of the wood grain. This degradation happens surprisingly quickly, often within a single season of exposure.
Prepping your deck for treatment
Before applying any protective coating, thorough preparation is crucial for achieving the best results. Start by removing all garden furniture and clearing the entire surface of the deck. Use a stiff broom to sweep away loose debris, leaves, and moss that may have accumulated over winter.
The next step depends on your deck's condition. For general dirt and grime without biological growth, Barrettine's Super Concentrated Decking Cleaner offers exceptional value and effectiveness. This fast-acting, water-based formula is suitable for all decking types, including wood, composite decking, and plastic surfaces.
Mix the cleaner according to the surface condition – use a quarter bottle per 10 litres of water for light cleaning, or half a bottle per 10 litres for heavy-duty cleaning. Apply using a watering can for even distribution, scrub immediately with a stiff brush, then allow 15-20 minutes before agitating again and hosing off thoroughly.
Removing mould and algae growth
If your old decking shows signs of mould, algae, or fungal growth, opt for our Driveway, Decking & Patio Cleaner instead. This ready-to-use formulation contains a biocide that kills existing growth and helps prevent future problems. It's suitable for both external and internal use on various surfaces including timber, concrete, brick, and stone.
Apply this decking cleaner via brush or sprayer, covering approximately 5 square metres per litre. Two coats are recommended for the best level of protection, with 24 hours drying time between applications to maximise the biocidal effect.
Should you pressure wash a deck?
Generally no - pressure washers can be too aggressive for timber decking. The intense water pressure damages wood fibres, causes splintering, and forces moisture deep into deck boards where it can cause swelling and decay. Stick to manual scrubbing with appropriate cleaners for effective results without risking expensive damage.
Long-term protection with decking oil
After cleaning and allowing the surface to dry completely (minimum 48 hours), the next crucial step in protecting decking is applying a high-quality treatment. Barrettine's Decking Oil All-In-One-Treatment provides comprehensive protection, combining oils, stains, and preservers in a single application.
This innovative formula offers built-in UV protection through fade-resistant pigments, helping prevent the natural ageing process that turns timber grey. The translucent finish preserves the grain of the wood while providing excellent water repellency that helps prevent splitting and cracking.
Available in a variety of colours plus clear, this decking treatment allows you to maintain or change your deck's appearance while providing essential protection. The low-odour formulation makes application more pleasant, and the non-flaking properties ensure a long-lasting finish.
Application tips for a perfect result
Apply using a paintbrush, roller, or sprayer, working in the direction of the grain for the best results. Coverage varies depending on timber condition – expect up to 8 square metres per litre on smooth surfaces or 5 square metres on rough sawn timber. A second coat is recommended, applied 48 hours after the first coat has dried.
For unpreserved timber, consider using Barrettine Universal Preserver first as a primer to ensure maximum durability.
Adding anti-slip protection for safe entertaining
The final step in your deck protection system addresses safety during summer entertaining. Barrettine's Decking Oil Anti-Slip Top Coat – winner of 'Best Garden Product' in the DIY Week awards 2019 – incorporates anti-slip technology that significantly improves grip on decking surfaces.
This premium topcoat features a low sheen finish with UV stabilisers, excellent water beading properties, and film biocide protection. Most importantly, it's rated as Low Slip Risk according to BS 7976-2, giving you confidence that your deck will be safe for family and guests during the summer season.
The anti-slip properties are particularly valuable on deck boards that may become wet from morning dew, spilled drinks, or unexpected showers during outdoor entertaining.
Professional results for trade and DIY applications
Whether you're a trade professional seeking reliable products for customer projects or a DIY enthusiast tackling your own restoration project, our comprehensive range ensures professional results.
Regular maintenance using this systematic approach – proper cleaning, protective treatment, and anti-slip coating – will extend your deck's lifespan significantly while maintaining its appearance.
Get started on your decking protection project with expert woodcare from Barrettine
Ready to begin protecting decking before BBQ season arrives? Our range of products are available through a network of trade stockists, builders merchants, and decorating centres nationwide.
For expert advice on choosing the right products for your specific project, or to locate your nearest stockist, contact the Barrettine team directly. You can reach us through our online contact form or email sales@barrettine.co.uk.
All press releases