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Before & Afters DIY Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

How to: Rejuvenate your timber deck for summer

As the sun comes out and the temperature rises, it’s time to refresh timber decking. While regular sweeping and cleaning is valuable, a deck re-coat is recommended every 12-to-18 months to maintain the quality, durability and appearance of the timber.

BEFORE deck Image courtesy of The Whimsical Wife
BEFORE deck
Image courtesy of The Whimsical Wife
AFTER deck Image courtesy of The Whimsical Wife
AFTER deck
Image courtesy of The Whimsical Wife

Timber coating specialist Sikkens offer the following tips to achieve professional looking results:

Oil vs. water-based coatings
Quality coatings save time and money in the long run, whether it’s oil or water-based, each finish has its own benefits. Oil-based coatings penetrate the wood better and are more durable however take longer to dry. An advantage of using an oil-based coating is its transparency, allowing for the natural characteristics of the timber to show through.

A water-based coating is environmentally friendly and doesn’t produce as much odour during application or drying. Advantages to using water -based coatings are faster drying time and easy clean up. With re-coating possible within two hours, the Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro is perfect for a weekend project. Available in five ready mixed colours, its high quality, transparent finish accentuates the natural character and colour of the timber.
Oiling the deck Image courtesy of The Whimsical Wife
Oiling the deck
Image courtesy of The Whimsical Wife

Do not mix water-based and oil-based coatings

It is recommended to stick with the most recently used coating type – whether oil or water-based. Those looking to change between coating systems will need to completely strip the existing coating back to bare timber prior to re-coating which will ensure optimum adhesion

Importance of cleaning the deck

Ensure the timber is clean and free from dirt and grime to allow the new coating to properly penetrate and adhere to the timber for long lasting protection. For hardwood decks that are weathered or grey, a cleaning product such as Sikkens Cetol BL Deck & Wood Cleaner needs to be applied before re-coating. This fast acting gel formula will brighten and revitalise grey and weathered timber, in preparation for application of the re-coat.
Sikkens products are available at all major hardware and independent paint stores.
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Design DIY Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT Shopping

6 DIY projects to spruce up your outdoor space

Before the wet weather and cold front arrives, revamp your outdoor area and ensure it’s well protected for the upcoming season. These simple DIY projects for the backyard and home entrance will be sure to give your home the spruce up it so desperately needs.

Timber screening for extra privacy

Boral Timber_McMasters Beach_DSC1514

Create private spaces, add shade and disguise unsightly walls with timber screening. Install Boral Timber Australian hardwood decking vertically for a smart, simple and relatively quick makeover. Leave a gap between boards to allow sunlight and breezes to filter through, maintaining a connection to the natural environment.

Old treasures, new look

metal bench_resized

Give outdoor metal fixtures and furniture a fresh new look with Hammerite Direct to Rust Metal Paint. Whether it’s a rusting gate or neglected outdoor setting, this easy to use paint provides a strong coating for long-lasting protection with it’s anti-corrosive formulation. It is a ‘one tin’ solution, performing as a primer, undercoat and top coat all in one – saving time and money. Available in a range of colours and in a smooth or hammered finish.

Protect and rejuvenate

Outdoor pool area_resized

Ensure the timber deck and outdoor furniture are well prepped and protected for winter with Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro finish. This quick-drying water based exterior timber finish provides good durability and flexibility. It’s microporous formula allows the timber to breathe while repelling unwanted moisture making it UV and weather resistant. Available in five stains, the transparent finish accentuates the natural character and colour of the timber.

Outdoor loungingScreen Shot 2015-06-04 at 10.12.24 amThe King Living outdoor collections offer durable and flexible solutions for outdoor entertaining and relaxing. Constructed using marine grade materials, these designs offer superior corrosion resistance and can withstand temperature fluctuations, salt water, wind and rain. Waterproof cushion covers, vents in seating and meshed, in-built storage areas also help to release water from rain to prevent mildew. King Living offers a range of outdoor furniture that delivers uncompromising style, comfort and outdoor practicality.

Backyard sanctuary

SlimWall Designer Fence (1)

Slimwall is a contemporary architectural fencing solution for modern outdoor environments. Featuring proven acoustic benefits, Slimwall will block urban noise four times more effectively than common fencing products, bringing a sense of quiet tranquillity to the backyard. The panels are quick and easy to install making a new fence the perfect weekend DIY project.

Create an entrance with impact

Boral Cultured Stone_Brigalow St case study 5

A home’s entrance area can make all the difference in creating a welcoming and memorable first impression. Add depth and texture with Boral Cultured Stone cladding. Engineered to look like traditional stone, it is cost-effective, easy to install and can be retrofitted to existing homes.

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Interiors Addict

A product to keep your interior timber looking brand new

You don’t have to be a design guru to know that timber is having a serious moment! Perfect for adding a touch of nature and warmth to modern interiors, timber is increasingly being seen in more non-traditional ways: from vanities, to benchtops to decorative panelling.

Int - Mosman 003

But like typical decking timber, interior timber benefits from regular care to maintain colour depth and clarity, helping to avoid damage from sunlight, indoor heating and cooling systems, knocks and spills.

A product which can do this is the Sikkens CETOL TSI Satin Plus, which provides a high quality transparent, satin finish that accentuates the grain and texture of all timber species. The oil-alkyd resin formulation is suitable for decoration and protection of soft and hardwoods.

Self-leveling for a smooth, even finish, this nontoxic and easy to clean coating can also protect surfaces exposed to high moisture levels such as bathrooms and saunas.

Sikkens TSI Satin -mosman (crop)

Sikkens CETOL TSI Satin Plus retails for $51.05 and is available from all good paint retailers and major hardware outlets. For a list of stockists visit Sikkens website here.