From Decking Oil to UV Oil: Caring for Your Exterior Timbers

Wood has long been a popular choice for outdoor features, including decking, fencing, cladding, outdoor furniture and outdoor buildings like sheds. There are plenty of big benefits to opting for wood as your choice of material, but before you make your decision, it’s also important to be aware of the pitfalls that come along with it too. In this blog, we discuss the pros and cons of building exterior surfaces in your outdoor space, and how to effectively take care of these surfaces. 

Pros

Wood makes for a great material for outdoor features for several reasons, including:

Visual Appeal

It’s no secret that timber simply just looks great in anyone’s garden. Wood's natural warmth and texture contribute to a timeless and visually appealing outdoor space. It complements various aesthetics, so whether you’re looking to create a nature-filled garden or contemporary entertaining area, there will be a wood grain that suits your style. You really can’t go wrong looks-wise when it comes to wood!

Versatility

Wood's adaptability allows for a whole world of design possibilities, making it a particularly useful material for building all kinds of exterior features. If you’re planning on building a deck and fencing, for example, you can use the same timber to make sure the two features match. 

Sustainability

Responsibly sourced and treated wood is a sustainable choice that doesn’t contribute to harmful deforestation practices. It is renewable, biodegradable and has a lower carbon footprint compared to alternative materials, like plastic, making it an eco-friendly option for eco-friendly homeowners who want to improve their outdoor spaces.

Cons

While wood is an excellent choice, it’s also good to be aware of some of the downsides of using it for outdoor applications. 

Susceptibility to Weathering

Outdoor wood is exposed to harsh weather conditions all year round, which over long periods of time can lead to issues such as rotting, warping and decay. The continuous exposure to UV rays from the sun can also result in fading and deterioration.

Moisture Absorption

Wood's natural tendency to absorb moisture can lead to swelling, cracking and the growth of mould and mildew. This is particularly problematic in light of the UK’s very damp climate, and could pose challenges to maintaining the wood's structural integrity over time.

Maintenance Requirements

Regular maintenance is essential to preserve the integrity and appearance of exterior wood. Without proper care, wood can deteriorate quickly, impacting its longevity and overall visual appeal.

Tips on Treating Exterior Wood

While the disadvantages of choosing wood for outdoor features can be a little off-putting, the good news is that practicality all of these disadvantages can be remedied with the help of wood treatment products. High-quality wood treatment products are designed to not only preserve exterior wood by protecting it from harsh weather conditions and general wear and tear, but also work to maintain the natural beauty of the wood, helping it to last for much longer. 

If you’re wondering what type of timber treatment would be best for your outdoor wood, we’re here to help. The main types of treatment you’ll find on the market include:

  • Varnish

  • Oil

  • Stains

Within these types, there are two key varieties of treatment that are designed to perform different roles: 

  • Coating treatments: Exterior coating treatments, such as varnishes, are designed to withstand the effects of weathering. These treatments are highly durable and versatile, meaning they can be used on many different types of exterior wood surfaces. They work by forming a protective seal over the outer layers of the wood, shielding it from damage. 

  • Penetrative treatments: These types of easy to apply wood treatments, including oils and stains, soak deep into the wood grain and protect it from the inside out. 

Let’s take a look at each type of wood treatment in greater detail. 

Varnish

Varnish protects and preserves wood by providing a waterproof layer, ensuring that it stays in great condition for longer. Think of it like paint, but without the pigment. It’s a combination of oils and resins which, once applied to a wood surface, acts as a safety barrier against scratches and stains. 

For a varnish that’s perfect for outdoor furniture and decking, we recommend Treatex Teak Protection.

Tips for Application

When working on exterior wood products with varnish, getting the application just right is key. Here are some tips for a flawless finish.

  • Preparation: Before you apply any varnish, make sure the wood is sufficiently prepped. Varnish can often highlight, rather than hide, any imperfections on the surface, so start by sanding the wood down with a medium grit sandpaper, before filling in any cracks.

  • Avoid dust: Be sure to varnish the wood in a dust-free environment, as dust can stick to the drying varnish and potentially ruin the finish. For best results, choose a quick-drying varnish like Treatex Teak Oil.

  • Work horizontally: It’s far easier to apply varnish to horizontal surfaces as opposed to vertical ones. If you’re working on garden furniture, turn it so that the surfaces are lying down. Make sure to remove any drawers or shelving before you start!

Oil

Wood oil offers a decorative finish, as well as protective traits. It works by penetrating deep into the wood grain and restoring the material’s natural oils. Because outdoor wood surfaces can begin to look worn out and faded when exposed to the elements, wood oil can help return them to their original state, giving them a new lease on life. Treatex UV Oil is a great example of this type of product. 

Tips for Application

  • Preparation: As with applying varnish, wood oil works best on unfinished timbers, as previous finishes will stop the oil from penetrating the timbers properly. Previous finishes should be lightly sanded and removed before any application. Ensure the timber is dry and clean, removing dirt, grease, algae and any other contaminants.

  • Recoating the oil: Recoating times depend on the type of oil you’re using. For example, additional coats of Treatex UV Oil can be applied after 12 hours, and left for a further 12-14 hours to dry. 

Stain

Wood stains are a valuable product for restoring the natural colour of exterior wood. Its semi-transparent properties penetrate the wood to give it a new colour. Although mainly used for decorative purposes, it does also offer a UV protective finish. There are plenty of different shades to choose from, depending on your requirements and preferences. 

For a wood stain that really rejuvenates your exterior wood’s looks, try the Treatex Classic Colour or Eco Colour collections. 

Tips for Application

  • Use a foam brush: It’s best to not opt for a bristled brush to apply stains onto the wood. This is because wood stains are incredibly tough to remove from the bristles of a paintbrush. Instead, you could use a foam roller or a lint-free cloth.

  • Follow the grain: When applying the wood stain, make sure to follow the direction of the grain of your wood surfaces. This will ensure that the colour looks natural. Make sure that you wait for the stain to soak in before wiping off any excess.

  • Apply a sealant: Remember to use a sealant after leaving the stain to dry, as this provides a little extra protection for your wood.

UV Decking Oil & Weather Resistant Paint Suppliers

Whether you want to protect your exterior wood for the elements or restore it to its natural beauty, Treatex can help. We supply a wide range of premium-quality wood treatments to keep your wood surfaces looking their very best. You can count on us for everything from UV decking oil to weather resistant paint for your outdoor furniture and fencing - all at highly competitive prices. 

Shop online with us today, or for more information about our products, please get in touch. 

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