Timber’s a beautiful thing — natural, strong, and full of character. But it doesn’t stay that way on its own. If you want your deck to hold up through the seasons, you’ve got to treat it right.
This guide breaks down what actually works when it comes to timber deck care — no fluff, just real advice from the field.
Why Timber Decks Need Care
Your deck deals with a lot: sun, rain, foot traffic, BBQ spills, even the dog’s claws. And because timber is a living material, it reacts to all of it.
Here’s what you’re up against:
- Moisture — causes swelling, warping, or rot
- UV exposure — dries out timber and causes fading or cracking
- Grime and stains — build up fast and ruin the look
- Previous coatings — often fail and trap problems underneath
Proper care means:
✔ Longer deck life
✔ Better appearance
✔ Less damage and fewer repairs
✔ No wasting weekends redoing the same job twice
The 3 Essentials of Timber Deck Care
Let’s break it down into what you actually need to look after your deck the right way.
1. Timber Deck Strippers & Deep Cleaners
Before you seal or oil, you need a clean surface.
That means getting rid of:
- Old coatings
- Grease and grime
- Black mould or tannin stains
- Greyed timber fibres from sun damage
Products to look for:
- Deck Stripper – removes stubborn oils and failed coatings
- Deep Cleaner – lifts stains, dirt, mould and mildew
- Timber Rejuvenator – brightens timber and preps it for sealing
Pro tip: A fresh clean deck holds finish longer and looks better. Don’t skip prep.
2. Timber Deck Oils & Sealers
Once your timber is clean and dry, it’s time to protect it.
Whether you want a raw, natural look or a richer wet finish — the goal is to seal out moisture and UV without trapping issues underneath.
Types of finishes:
- Penetrating Oils – soak in deep and nourish hardwoods like Spotted Gum, Merbau, Blackbutt
- Clear or Tinted Sealers – repel water and block UV while keeping the grain visible
- Film-Forming Sealers – create a satin finish with more surface protection and anti-slip texture
Pro tip: We only stock sealers that pass the field test — not just the label test.
3. Timber Deck Maintenance Cleaners
Protecting your deck doesn’t end after sealing.
Maintenance is what keeps it looking good and lasting longer without needing to strip and recoat every year.
Use maintenance cleaners to:
- Remove surface dirt and prevent mould regrowth
- Restore water-beading and anti-slip on coated decks
- Clean without damaging your existing finish
Pro tip: Clean your deck every 2–3 months to extend the life of your oil or sealer.
How to Seal Your Deck (Step-by-Step)
✅ Strip & Rejuvenate
Remove any old coatings, built-up grime, or grey timber using a deck stripper and deep cleaner. Follow up with a rejuvenator to bring the timber back to life. Let it dry fully.
✅ Sand & Prepare
Lightly sand with 40-100 grit to open up the grain for better absorption. Wipe off all dust before sealing.
✅ Apply 2–3 Coats of Finish
Use a deck applicator brush, lamb wool pad. Work with the grain in thin, even layers. Allow proper drying time between coats.
✅ Let It Dry
Give it at least 24 hours before walking on the surface — longer in cold or humid weather. For best results, wait a few days before placing furniture.
How to Keep Your Deck Looking Fresh
✅ Use proper timber cleaners — not harsh chemicals
✅ Avoid pressure washing too aggressively
✅ Keep leaves and debris off the deck
✅ Clean spills right away
✅ Do a light maintenance clean every 2–3 months
Final Word
A good deck adds value to your home — but only if you look after it.
The key is doing it right from the start, using products that are tested, trusted, and matched to your timber and conditions.
At Sealix, we’ve done the work. We’ve stripped, sealed, and restored hundreds of decks across Melbourne — so every product on our shelves is there because it works.
Need help choosing the right cleaner, oil, or sealer?
Come visit us in Dandenong or shop online at www.sealix.com.au
Call the crew — we’ll help you seal it right.
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