How to Refinish Your Decking

Given our climate in Ireland, decking requires regular maintenance. We get a lot of questions at Pat McDonnell Paints this time of year about how to breathe new life into old decking. If you have decided it is time to spruce up your deck, check out our handy step-by-step guide below.

Why Does Decking Need Maintenance?

Decking is a fantastic addition to any garden, providing a great spot for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying a Sunday morning coffee. However, the Irish climate can be tough on wood. Constant exposure to moisture can lead to mould, algae, and general weathering, while UV rays from the sun (when we get them!) can cause fading and cracking over time. Regular maintenance helps to protect your decking, keeping it looking good and extending its lifespan.

When is the Best Time to Tackle My Decking?

We recommend giving your decking two coats in April. At the end of September, give your decking a third coat to protect it from the winter weather.

Tools for the Job 

1. FARBEX Exterior Fungicidal Wash
2. Hard-bristled sweeping brush
3. Hose or power washer
4. Your choice of decking paint, stain or oil
5. 4” brush

Before You Start

Check the forecast as you will need a few of days of dry weather to complete your project. Avoid very hot weather as this may cause the product to dry too quickly and not fully absorb into the wood.

Step 1: Preparation

Cleaning is key to a successful decking makeover. Start by clearing away all furniture, plants and decorations. Then thoroughly sweep the deck with a hard-bristled yard brush to remove surface debris and dislodge some of the growth (moss, algae, mildew etc.) that you will inevitably find on an Irish deck.

Use a hose with a nozzle to rinse away stubborn dirt. If you prefer, a power washer can do the job too—just be sure to take precautions to protect the timber. Keep the nozzle at a safe distance from the surface and opt for a wide fan tip rather than a pointed one to avoid damage. 

You can use a specially-designed cleaning product such as the Farbex Exterior Fungicidal Wash  to remove moss, mould, algae, and other growths effortlessly, along with dirt and stains that have accumulated over time.

Tip: Don’t use bleach cleaner, as this can whiten and damage your decking boards.

If required, sand off any loose or flaking areas. Run a cloth soaked in white spirits over the decking boards to remove any sanding dust.

Leave the decking to dry for at least two days. While the decking may seem dry the day after, you risk sealing in any remaining moisture which can lead to cracking and splitting. What’s more, you risk sealing moisture within the wood and in time, this will push any coating you apply off your deck.

Step 2: Choose the Correct Product

Typically, your decking will have already been coated with Decking Oil, Decking Stain, or a Solid Decking Colour. All treatments will enhance your deck’s appearance while also offering superior protection against UV rays, moisture, and fungi, ensuring your deck stays beautiful and durable for many summers to come.

1. Decking Paint: For a bold, opaque finish that covers the wood grain, explore decking paints from Ronseal, available in a variety of ready-mixed colours.
2. Decking Stains: If you prefer a more natural look, stains from Cuprinol, Ronseal, and Sikkens add colour while keeping the grain visible. Stains penetrate deeply into the wood, enhancing the grain, intensifying colours, or changing the tone of the wood.
3. Decking Oils: For hard-wearing protection and a natural finish, browse our selection of decking oils from Osmo.

Step 3: Time to Apply Your Chosen Product

Start by thoroughly mixing your product with your trusty Pat McDonnell Paints stirring stick. 

Use a good quality paint brush (approx. 3 - 4” in width) to apply your chosen product along the decking boards. Remember to always work with the grain. We recommend applying two coats.

Tip: For an even finish, start at the furthest end of the deck and go in an S-shape, painting one or two boards at a time.

Make sure to always follow the Manufacturer's Instructions with regards to drying times between coats. 

After your final coat, wait for at least 24 hours of good weather before using your deck.  Now, it's time to put your feet up and enjoy your newly refreshed deck!