TREATING DECKS

 

As decks are horizontal surfaces, they will typically encounter much harsher conditions than a vertical surface. It is therefore in your interest to use the best quality paints and stains to help minimise wear and weathering of the timber and maximise the time between re-application.

Decking conditions include:

  • High incidence of UV light from sunshine.

  • Stress from standing water, snow, wet leaves, etc.

  • Wear from foot traffic, furniture, pets, etc.

Application advice:

  • Paint, or stain wood exteriors immediately after installation, unless the wood has moisture left in it. In this case, the wood should be left to dry for up to 2-6 weeks depending on the level of water.

  • To best protect the timber substrate, the stain or paint should be applied to all faces, edges, ends, including the undersides of pieces.

  • Boards should be painted from end to end to avoid lap marks.

TIP: For new decks, the boards can be treated on work horses on all faces prior to installation.

  • Use appropriate products when painting or staining decks. Always use an exterior stain and always use a suitable exterior wood primer under paints.

  • Apply paint or stain when the deck area is shaded from direct sunlight, and when cold weather and rain are not predicted with the next 24 hours.

Preparation advice:

  • Pre-stained or painted surfaces: remove all loose paint or stain by sanding the surface. Ensure all flaking, dirt and dust is removed prior to application of stain or paint.

  • Raw wood should be sanded, and clean, ensuring all residual cleaner, bleach, dirt and dust is removed.

NOTE:  Stains and paints require more frequent application on deck surfaces compared to vertical surfaces. Re application should be carried out as needed, typically yearly. Re-application of stains can lead to a more intense colour, or variation from the original tone as the stain layers build up.

The information above is provided to assist our clients and is based on our experience in the paint industry. For further information, technical assistance or pricing please contact the Axolotl Paint sales team.

The information above is provided to assist our clients and is based on our experience in the paint industry. For further information, technical assistance or pricing please contact the Axolotl Paint sales team.