There are two aspects to consider,

(a) First and most important is TOTAL PROTECTION of the timber

DECK-DOC is the only product that will repel moisture being absorbed into the timber for several years. The oil absorbs into the timber and seals from the inside as well as the outside. This feature is important as it protects the timber against wood rot and fungal damage, such as mildew and algae. Equally important, the oil will encapsulate the timber and retain the natural oils and tannins therein, preventing the timber drying out, cracking, splitting and warping. The tannins determine the colour of the timber, so protecting the tannins and keeping them in will retain the timber's natural colour.

DECK-DOC’s Revolutionary Oiling System will protect for years and never crack or peel.

Important note: IF WATER DOES NOT BEAD ON THE SURFACE, THE TIMBER IS UNPROTECTED

(b) Secondly, THE COSMETIC APPEARANCE of the timber

We all want our outdoor timber to look its best year-round. Like anything exposed to the elements, it accumulates dust, grime and airborne pollution over time. Just as we wash and polish our cars to keep them looking good, our outdoor timber deserves the same care.

Over time, timber can appear grey because of dirt buildup. It’s not the timber that’s turned grey; it is the accumulation of dirt built up on the surface.

The dirt buildup needs to be cleaned off from time to time, and once refreshed with a light coat of oil, the cosmetic appearance will come back to like new as the oil is protecting the colour in the timber fibres.

If timber is not exposed to the full weather elements and has some protection, the cosmetic surface and the natural beauty can be easily maintained by occasionally cleaning the surface by lightly sweeping with an oiled Lambs Wool Applicator and Oil Scouring Applicator.

SOLID COATINGS VERSES ABSORBING COATINGS

SOLID COATINGS: These coatings leave a solid membrane on the surface, will solidify and with constant movement of outdoor timber, will ultimately break down in a short period of time, resulting in the coating cracking and peeling, causing damage to the timber. It will absorb moisture, dry out, and lose its tannins (colour). The maintenance in restoring this timber is costly, as it will require mechanically sanding back the timber.

ABSORBING COATINGS: Using a natural oil-absorbing coating brings out the timber's natural colour and beauty, and only needs enhancing and enriching with repeat applications without requiring costly maintenance.

DECK-DOC’s UNIQUE OILING SYSTEM:

Works with the timber's natural movement, sealing in its oils and tannins to preserve colour and protect the wood.

This depends on the absorption rate of your timber, as well as weather conditions. A guide is to “Feed it when it needs it”

See with the eye and reapply oil when the surface appears dry. It's natural for exposed areas to require more frequent attention than those under cover. For routine maintenance, there is no need to re-clean the timber; simply apply a small amount of oil to the areas that need it.

A good rule is to protect your timber before winter and before summer elements come into full effect.

As the oil absorbs and builds up in the timber fibres, the less frequently you need to reapply.

By following the instructions carefully and not over applying, it should only take 24 hours to dry in summer. In winter however, it can take longer and is therefore recommended to apply on sunny days 15° – 27°

Surfaces should be completely dry before applying.

DO NOT APPLY TO WET SURFACES

This is due to over applying. Timber will only absorb so much oil within a 2-3 hour period. Flooding the timber does not make it absorb any more oil. Therefore, any wet oil that has not absorbed into the timber will sit on top and needs to be wiped off. This will then allow the oil to dry into the top surface layer.

A tacky surface occurs when excess oil is left on the surface and dries without being wiped down, or when too much oil is applied at once. To prevent this, always work in 2m² sections to allow adequate absorption before the oil has a chance to dry.

If the surface is already tacky, spray kerosene over the affected area to soften and reactivate the oil. Scrub with a Deck-Doc Oil Scouring Applicator and wipe away the excess with dry cloths. Always work in 2m² sections at a time, particularly in hot conditions where drying time is accelerated.

Lanolin (wool grease) acts as a natural deterrent to Insects including termites. However, it will not guarantee that termites won’t penetrate the timber in all situations.

See instructional videos here.