Garden decking can be costly to install, so decking treatments and preservatives are essential to ensure it lives up to its lifespan. This not only enhances its appearance but also protects it from harsh UK weather.

Today, Beesley and Fildes will discuss the best decking treatments for your garden deck so you can enjoy a beautiful and durable garden.

Different Types of Decking Treatments

There are various decking treatments to choose from, each offering its own set of benefits and being suited to different types of decking.

Here's a closer look at the main types of decking treatments available:

Decking oils

Decking oils help to preserve the natural beauty of wood.

These penetrate the wood's natural fibres to replenish natural oils and provide long-lasting moisture protection. With UV and weather-resistant properties, this prevents fading, swelling, and warping.

Best for: Hardwood decking like teak or iroko.

Decking Stains

Decking stains provide a protective coating for your decking while enhancing the colour.

Stains offer a middle ground between oils and paints, allowing some of the wood grain to show through for a natural look. This adds extra character to your decking. With UV and weather protection, you can choose from an array of colours to suit any garden.

Best for: Softwood and hardwood decking.

Decking paints

If you prefer more of a dramatic look for your garden, then decking paints are perfect for you.

Paints offer a bold look for your decking, completely covering the wood so no signs of weathering or grain show through. This is especially beneficial for hiding imperfections.

Decking paint is also UV-resistant and can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Best for: Older or weathered decking.

Preservatives

Preservatives are often applied to decking materials before other treatments are carried out.

This acts as a protective barrier against rot, fungal growth, and insect damage. Preservatives, which can be used with oils, paints, and stains, can help extend the lifespan of your decking.

Best for: Decking exposed to damp or shaded areas.

How to Decide Which Treatment to Use

A few more factors must be considered when choosing which treatment method to use to ensure the best result.

No one wants to ruin their garden with the wrong products after paying loads of money for an upgrade!

Exposure to the Elements

If your garden receives a lot of sunlight throughout the year, a UV-resistant treatment is essential. This will prevent fading and greying, protecting the appearance of your deck.

For areas with lots of heavy rainfall, water-resistant treatments like decking oils and stains are ideal. These will prevent warping, swelling, and rot.

Wood type

Hardwood decking, such as teak and iroko, is dense and durable. Oil treatments penetrate the fibres of these woods, resulting in a natural, earthy look.

Stains and paints offer a thicker protective layer for softwoods like pine or spruce, preventing general wear and tear.

Foot traffic

If you use your decking quite frequently, opt for treatments with abrasion-resistant properties, such as hard-wearing stains and decking paint.

For homes with children and pets, non-slip treatments can prevent falling and injury, helping your garden remain safe and functional.

Maintenance requirements

If you don't have the time to maintain your garden regularly (like most of us), low-maintenance treatments like decking stains and paint are your best option.

These require fewer frequent re-applications than oils, saving you time and money.

Budget

Decking oils and stains are generally more affordable to buy and maintain, whereas paints and premium treatments may cost more upfront.

However, investing in a more expensive treatment or preservative can save you money on repairs and touch-ups in the future. Ronseal is a great and affordable brand for decking stains and preservatives.

Tips for Application

Before applying decking preservatives or treatments, it's best to remove debris and grime or mould.

Once this is done, sand the surface to create a smooth and uniform decking area. This will remove any rough spots or splinters. Repair any loose screws, nails, or damaged boards before applying the treatment.

Rollers and paint brushes ensure even and detailed coverage for a smooth application. If you're short on time, a sprayer can do the trick. Always apply decking treatments in dry weather, allowing the surface to dry off for 24–48 hours before using.

Complete Your Decking with Long-Lasting Treatments at Beesley and Fildes

We know how important it is to have a beautiful and functional outdoor space for relaxing in your home.

That's why we offer a wide range of decking treatments and preservatives to add the perfect final touch to your garden.

If you're looking for a long-lasting finish, Ronseal Ultimate Protection Decking Stain is the best choice. With a variety of colours and finishes to choose from, you can find the perfect fit for your project.