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Timber decking

Timber decking provides beauty and value to a home – as long as they are finished and maintained properly. If not, they can end up making your house look untidy and uninviting.

After years of trial and research we have discovered the best coating methods to ensure longevity of your deck. We prefer the use of more natural penetrating sealers which allows moisture to escape from the grain of the timber and the surface, to wear more evenly – allowing for an annual rejuvenating recoat.

This is compared to a petroleum based surface seal, which not only turns orange with time but also due to osmosis , traps water beneath the surface – deteriorating both the timber and the coating from the inside out. This then causes dry rot and staining in the timber, and the coating to crack and peel. Once this occurs, a simple recoat will not rejuvenate the surface and only a complete re-sand will bring the deck back to looking new.

Austimber provides a complete service from sanding and finishing of new decking – to replacing and resurfacing old ones. We also work in conjunction with a local builder if a complete new or rebuild is required.

Decking F.A.Q.s

Do new decks need sanding?

Yes – During the milling and installation process, the timber grain becomes closed and dirty. Sanding the deck takes away the top layer of dirt and oil, leaving the grain open and allowing the coatings to penetrate. If this is not done, the coating sits on top of the grain, and wears off prematurely.

Can all decks be sanded?

Decks that are fastened with a decorative dome head nail or bugle head screws that are left flush with the surface can not be sanded.

Dome heads need to be punched down – which will cause splitting.

Bugle heads need to be countersunk below the surface.

In these cases, a timber deck can be washed down with an acid deck cleaner and high pressure washed before coating. This will clean the surface and open the grain – but not to the same extent of sanding.

This will not get the surface of the deck flat – as decking timber will almost always cup aid warp.

How many coats are required?

For decks under cover – generally 2 is sufficient, if not covered or exposed to harsh conditions – 3 coats are required.

How long should decks last before recoating is needed?

Recoating should be done every 12-18 months depending on exposure. This will ensure the surface of the timber is renovated and leave the deck looking its best.