Australians love outdoor living and no backyard feels complete without a deck. But after months of rain, winter shade and the harsh summer sun, many timbre decks need serious attention before they’re ready for weekend barbecues, summer drinks or Christmas lunch.
Haymes Paint category manager of woodcare Wendy Payne recommends inspecting your deck as the weather warms to spot early signs of wear. Look for surface damage, mould and mildew, moss and lichens, especially on decks shaded through winter, along with greying timber, loss of colour and general staining.
“Regular maintenance to keep your deck clean, stained and sealed is the best way to extend its lifespan and your enjoyment of your outdoor space,” Wendy says.
Fortunately, refreshing a deck is straightforward with a little planning. Here are Haymes Paint’s top tips for getting yours summer-ready.
Check the forecast
Unseasonal weather can make deck maintenance tricky. Wendy notes that you’ll need at least 48 hours without rain to achieve the best results from your deck stain.
“You also don’t want the weather to be too hot, as the stain won’t adhere properly and may leave a patchy finish,” she says.
“For the best results, aim for a couple of days of fair weather, dry conditions with mild temperatures.”
Preparation is key
Before staining, the timbre must be thoroughly cleaned so the stain can penetrate the grain.
“A thorough clean allows the stain to adhere properly to the decking,” Wendy explains.
Use wood cleaner with a stiff scrubbing brush, then allow it to stand for ten minutes before rinsing with a pressure cleaner. A pressure cleaner is ideal for reviving weathered timbre but always test it in an inconspicuous area first to avoid accidental damage.
Sealer, stain or both?
When choosing a finish, decide whether you prefer a natural look or a touch of colour.
“A natural stain lets the timbre’s grain and tones shine through, while toners add colour but still reveal the wood’s natural character,” Wendy says.
“Either option will protect your deck from the harsh Australian sun and help keep it looking its best.”
How much stain do you need?
Timbre varieties have different characteristics, but a simple way to estimate product quantity is to calculate your deck’s square meterage. For example, a 6m x 5m deck equals 30m².
Haymes Paint Dexpress covers 10m²/L. Using that calculation, a 30m² deck needs 3L for one coat or 6L for the recommended two coats.
Wendy emphasises the importance of following the label directions to ensure the correct life, colour and sheen. Apply the stain generously along the length of the boards, working two to three boards at a time with a good-quality brush or applicator. If you’re trying a new colour, always test it first on an off-cut or a discreet section of the deck.
“Returning your deck to its best is easy if you know how and have the right products. With a little work, your deck will be ready for summer and Christmas in no time,” she says.
“To keep it looking great, it’s worth giving it a clean every now and then with a mild detergent or wood cleaner.”
