What Do You Need to Know about Timber Decking Stains and Oils?
Outdoor timber decking is a great addition to your home. You can build a deck right next to your house so that you have additional space for recreation and spending time outdoors. Certainly, timber decks are a better choice compared to traditional concrete patios. They are less bulky and are easier to build. Timber also has an unmatched natural look that enhances the aesthetic merit of your outdoor space. However, you must be wary of the weathering elements that will damage your timber decking. Applying a stain or oil protects the wood against weathering elements such as UV radiation. The following discussion will help you make the right choice between decking stains and oils:
Timber Decking Oils
Just as their name suggests, decking oils come in greasy formulations that produce a smooth, buttery finish on the surface of your timber decking. Most manufacturers make the oils in a way that they can penetrate into the grain of the timber to guarantee a durable and efficient coat. They also make them in clear or coloured formulations to meet all your beautification needs.
The top benefits of timber decking oils include:
• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation filters to mitigate the effects of harmful sun rays and increase the lifespan of your timber decking.
• Unmatched coverage per unit of decking oil. Good oils can go as far as eight square metres for every litre of oil.
• Proper coating of the deck without peeling or flaking for long periods.
On the other hand, you must be sure of want from a decking oil because you cannot use any other coating over them. The wood has to weather for several years before you can apply another finish.
Timber Decking Stains
Stains are another alternative you can use to coat your timber deck. They are varnish-like formulations available in various shades to match different wood surfaces. Undeniably, stains are reliable at sealing wood effectively. Their colour pigment reduces exposure to ultraviolet radiation, preserving the wood. They are also resistant to algae and mould.
On the downside, wood stains interfere with the visibility of the wood. This is because of their colour pigmentation. The plastic-like cover that they form over the wood may also start to crack and peel after some time.
Conclusion
Timber decking oils are the better alternative of the two. The oils do not interfere with the natural appearance of the wood. They are also resistant to peeling and flaking.