Top 4 Tips for Upgrading Your Decking
If your decking needs a little TLC, here are our top tips on what you can do to help it look its best and protect it from the elements.
1. Assessing the damage
A great place to start is by investigating the areas of decking that are most damaged, dirty or stained. Dripping water from hanging baskets or plant pots is a common cause of damage, so try to clean these spaces regularly or relocate these plants to other areas of the garden. Climbing plants can also cause damage if not controlled and try to keep on top of falling leaves. Damp leaves can cause rot or cause staining to your decking.
2. Cleaning and treating
One of the quickest ways to refresh your deck is to give it a good clean. We offer Barrettine Decking and Patio cleaner that can help remove moss, mould and algae. If you’re using a pressure washer, we recommend setting it to the minimum pressure, as some high-powered washers can harm your decking. Cleaning your decking also makes it easier to apply deck paint, stains and oils.
3. Stains, paints and oils
There are many options for the colour or finish of your decking. Whatever option you choose, you will be adding protection to your timber.
- Decking stains are available in a variety of colours, while weatherproofing and protecting.
- Specialist decking paints are the perfect makeover option. They come in bold, subtle, matt or glossy finishes and they are great for hiding damage or filling small cracks.
- Decking oils offer waterproofing and replace natural oils in the wood enhancing its beauty.
4. Replacing damaged decking boards
If you are looking to replace some of the boards in your decking, it is important to remember that it can be difficult to match the colour exactly. Our top tip is to try and place any new boards in less visible spots and try to move existing boards to cover any main damaged areas.
Once refitted, treat the whole decking area with your choice of stain, paint or oil.
If you need some help, pop in and see us! Our friendly staff will be happy to find you the closest match for your decking boards and give you advice on the best treatments.
