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Outdoor furniture on a deck outside a townhouse

Overview

Almost any deck can be rejuvenated and brought back to life by following some simple steps. The team at Intergrain share how to do this with their range of products.

Tools and materials

Steps

1Start with the water bead test

The first thing you need to do when starting your deck restoration is a water bead test. Water soaking into your timber means that decking oil and stain should do the same.

To do this, splash some water on your deck and see if the water beads or absorbs into the timber. If the water beads, then further preparation, sanding, stripping or weathering is required.

When the water absorbs into the timber, you're ready for the next step.

2Prepare the timber

Before you apply any oil or stain to your deck, you need to prepare the timber.

This can be done with an oxalic acid-based cleaner, such as Intergrain Reviva, which will bring the timber back to a natural colour while removing any denaturing or light stains.

Also make sure you hose down any plants near your deck before and after using the cleaner to minimise any damage to leaves.

3Apply the oil

Once your deck is dry, you're ready to apply the oil.

If you use Intergrain UltraDeck, 2 coats should be used for undercover areas and 3 coats for areas in direct exposure to the elements.

Having the right coverage rate is important to ensure the durability and longevity of your coating.

Follow the example below to work out how much Intergrain UltraDeck you'll need.

UltraDeck coverage = 12m2 per litre (on average)
6m (L) x 4m (W) deck = 24m2
Therefore, you'd need 4L of UltraDeck to cover your 24m2 deck with 2 coats

4Start restoring your deck

Check out the full Intergrain range available at your local Bunnings.

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.