timber decks – The Interiors Addict

How To: Revitalise exterior timber in a weekend

Exterior timber in need of some TLC? Fear not, it doesn’t need to be a massive hassle. It is a common misconception that re-coating a stained timber deck will hide everything. According to Anthony Scott of Channel 10’s DIY program The Home Team, re-coating instead of cleaning first, is more likely to highlight the stains, trapping them and making the timber look worse than it was.

Revitalising a timber deck to protect it over the coming cold and wet winter months can be a simple weekend project when using a specific cleaning program that removes stains properly and rejuvenates the natural beauty of timber. “Having a timber deck helps frame the home as well as adding a soft touch to the front or backyard,” says Anthony. “However, a grey weathered deck will do just the opposite. Sikkens provides a quick and easy solution to remove dirt and grime from timber, leaving it fresh and in its natural raw timber state. The Sikkens Cetol BL Deck and Wood Cleaner is a fast acting gel that only takes 15 minutes to revitalise and brighten grey and weathered timber.”

In some instances, the existing coating may be peeling, flaking or have a different product to the new coating, for example if the existing is an oil based coating and the new coating is water based. If this is the case, it will be necessary to strip back and sand the timber before applying a new coat.

Once the timber is clean and dry, and the surface ready for a new coat, Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro is a water based coating that can be re-applied within two hours. Providing superior durability and flexibility, with quick drying properties, Cetol BLX-Pro is available in five ready mixed stains and will provide a high-quality, transparent finish that accentuates the natural characteristics and colour of the timber.

For more information visit the Sikkens Australia YouTube channel or www.sikkens.com.au

Is decking the answer for inner city dwellers tight on space?

For the many inner city dwellers squeezed for space a well-designed deck may be the answer to getting the most from outdoor areas. Decking is a versatile and durable option for creating comfortable outdoor zones, and with proper planning and design a deck will form a natural connection to indoor areas.

Leon Travis from Boral Timber offers the following advice for urban homeowners planning a deck:

1. For a smoother transition from the home’s interior, consider a decking timber species that is no darker than interior flooring. Timber is simple to treat and darken at a later stage if desired; however a naturally dark timber cannot be lightened if homeowners change their mind. Also, consider the direction of interior flooring. Installing timber decking boards accordingly helps to maintain consistent design and flow from indoors to out. Blackbutt species is a popular choice and is available in flooring and decking boards.

2. When choosing timber it is important to bear in mind that only certain species adapt well to decking. Australian hardwood decking is well suited to the Australian climate — from the suburbs to the city.

3. The size of the deck will also contribute to how practical it is. Will it fit a table and chairs, a barbecue, a herb garden or serve as a safe children’s play area? For year round use, consider a weather or shade cover, such as a retractable awning or more permanent shelter, depending on the aspect of the home and how much exposure to the sun it receives at different times of the day. Remember, the angle of sun will also change from winter to summer.

4. If space is limited consider how the area beneath the deck can be used. Depending on the deck’s elevation it can be designed to serve as a functional storage space for outdoor furniture, garden supplies or sporting equipment.

5. Designing and installing a highly functional urban deck can be a complex undertaking, so using a licensed builder is recommended.

For more information.