Restoring and Preserving Weathered Wood Decking

Date: 2nd September 2024
Categories: Barrettine, Products

Like any exterior feature, wooden decking is constantly exposed to the elements. Over time, sun, rain, wind, and fluctuating temperatures can take their toll, leaving your once-pristine deck looking tired and grey.

Restoring and preserving weathered wooden decking is not just about maintaining its aesthetic appeal; it's a crucial step in ensuring the safety and longevity of your outdoor living space.

A combination of weather, fungi, mildew growth and daily wear-and-tear can cause timber decking to lose its structural integrity, creating a safety hazard. A well-maintained deck provides a space for relaxation and entertainment that is not only beautiful, but also safe to use.

Like any exterior feature, wooden decking is constantly exposed to the elements. Over time, sun, rain, wind, and fluctuating temperatures can take their toll, leaving your once-pristine deck looking tired and grey.

Restoring and preserving weathered wooden decking is not just about maintaining its aesthetic appeal; it's a crucial step in ensuring the safety and longevity of your outdoor living space.

A combination of weather, fungi, mildew growth and daily wear-and-tear can cause timber decking to lose its structural integrity, creating a safety hazard. A well-maintained deck provides a space for relaxation and entertainment that is not only beautiful, but also safe to use.

Protecting Your Investment

The best way to protect your wood deck - and the significant investment it represents - is to shield it from the elements from the outset. However, if your wood deck has already weathered or you've inherited a less-than-perfect deck with a new property, don't despair.

It's never too late to restore and protect it for the long term, preventing future weathering and moisture damage. After all, restoring a wood deck is far more cost-effective than building a brand new deck altogether!

Is it really possible to restore a deck that's already weathered?

While preserving your decking from day one is the best way to keep it looking beautiful, it is still possible to bring a weathered deck back to life once it's been exposed to the elements. With the right products, you can have your deck looking almost new again!

Preparation: The First Step in Deck Restoration

Before diving into the restoration process, there are a few key preparation steps. First, remove any furniture or planters from the deck. Then, sweep away any loose debris, leaves, or dirt.

It's important to note that while many people resort to pressure washers for cleaning decking, we advise against this method. Pressure washing can be harsh on wood, lifting fibres and creating a rough surface and a breeding ground for unsightly mould to spore. It can also exacerbate existing cracks or split areas. For weathered wood, pressure washing often does more harm than good.

Deck Cleaner: A Gentle Approach to Restoring Decking

Instead of using a pressure washer, opt for a specialised product like the Barrettine Super Concentrated Decking Cleaner. This gentle yet effective cleaning solution is designed to clean decking without causing damage. In cases where fungal growth is present, homeowners can instead use Knockout Driveway & Patio Cleaner, which contains biocidal ingredients to eliminate mould and fungi.

Restoring Decking: Revitalising Grey Wood

Over time, wooden decks exposed to UV rays can turn grey. However, this doesn't mean your deck is beyond saving. Barrettine Wood Reviver is a great option for restoring decking, helping to bring colour back into grey, weathered wood.

This water-based formula harnesses the natural cleaning power of oxalic acid to effectively remove grey discolouration, tannin stains, and even rust marks from the surface of the wood.

To use Barrettine Wood Reviver, start by applying the product generously to the surface, working in manageable sections that don’t allow the product to dry. You can always wet the surface lightly with water if this starts to happen.

Allow it to penetrate for 15-30 minutes before gently scrubbing with a damp stiff brush. Rinse thoroughly and repeat if necessary. Remember, the final appearance may vary depending on the wood's condition, so it's advisable to test the product on a small area first. Allow the wood to dry completely before applying any subsequent finishes.

Preserving Your Restored Decking

Now that your deck has been restored, it's crucial to preserve it to prevent future weathering.

Most wooden decking is crafted using timber that has been pressure treated, an essential process that allows preservatives to penetrate deep into the wood, protecting against rot and fungal decay. However, if your timber deck has not been previously treated or preserved, you’ll need to treat it using a product like Barrettine Universal Preserver Primer.

For previously preserved or treated timber, you can proceed directly to using the Barrettine Decking Oil All In One Treatment.

Barrettine Decking Oil All-In-One Treatment

This versatile product is specifically designed for pressure-treated and preserved timber, offering exceptional protection to deck boards, tiles, and balustrades.

Available in a variety of translucent colours as well as a clear option, the non-flaking formula and water repellent properties of the Barrettine Decking Oil All-In-One Treatment help shield your decking from the elements. By applying this treatment, you'll not only enhance your entire deck's appearance but also significantly extend its lifespan.

This innovative product also combines UV fade-resistant pigments with water-repellent resins to protect decking, making it an essential step in deck maintenance.

Applying Barrettine Decking Oil All In One Treatment

Ensure your decking is clean, dry, and free from debris before application.

Always test the oil on a small, inconspicuous area to check the desired finish. Apply one coat liberally with a brush, sprayer, or roller, ensuring even coverage on all sides of the decking boards and going in the direction of the grain of the wood.

A recommended second coat should be applied after 12-24 hours. Additional coats will also provide a deeper stain to the wood. Allow 24-48 hours drying time before heavy foot traffic.

Remember to apply the coating in suitable weather conditions, avoiding temperatures below 5°C and damp conditions. This will help prevent bubbling or peeling of the stain, giving your decking a nice, even finish.

Further protection: Anti-Slip Top Coat

To further improve the safety of your restored deck, consider applying Barrettine Decking Oil Anti-Slip Top Coat. This product not only adds an extra layer of protection but also helps prevent slips and falls, especially in wet conditions.

Barrettine Decking Oil Anti-Slip Top Coat is a premium product designed to enhance safety on your wooden surfaces. This award-winning oil incorporates anti-slip technology to improve grip on decking, steps, and handrails.

Beyond safety, it also offers protection against the elements with UV stabilisers to prevent greying and a water-repellent formula to resist cracking and flaking. This product combines safety and durability, making it an ideal choice for maintaining your outdoor wooden surfaces. 

How to Apply Anti-Slip Top Coat

Shake the product well before use and apply an even coat with a brush, working in the direction of the wood grain.

Allow sufficient drying time before subjecting the surface to foot traffic. Remember to apply in suitable weather conditions for best results!

Barrettine: Experts In Woodcare

Restoring decking is a rewarding project that can transform your outdoor space. With the right care and products, you can breathe new life into your weathered decking, ensuring it remains a safe and stylish feature for years to come.

Barrettine offers a comprehensive range of products to help you achieve the perfect finish. From cleaning and reviving to protecting and preserving, we have everything you need to restore your deck to its former glory.

Find your local Barrettine stockist today or get in touch with our expert team if you have any questions.