I have decking that looks in desperate need of some protector or oil. In the UK it's already quite wintery - temperatures are consistently around 5C (~40F), most days are wet. The instructions for all the protectors and oils that I see say to apply in temperatures over 10C-15C and only in dry conditions. How important is this? Should I assume that doing something is better than doing nothing? Is there any advantage to protector over oil in this situation (I think protectors tend to be water-based, so maybe less sensitive to wet weather?).
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How big is the decking area?– UnhandledExcepSeanNov 21, 2019 at 17:18
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1I would say the real problem is that the British climate is just not suitable for uncovered wooden decks. They work well in dry sunny places, like southern California. The long-term solution is to either put a roof over your deck, or replace it with something more weather-resistant, like a brick patio. The new plastic composite decking boards might also be the answer, but I don't have any experience with those.– Mike BaranczakNov 21, 2019 at 17:54
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2 Answers
The temperature range is important because it dictates the drying time and should be followed pretty close. The dryness factor is critical. Wood absorbs water. When you set out to protect your deck you want the deck to absorb the sealer. If the deck is already wet, then the sealer won't sink into the wood and you've wasted your money. The deck must be dry so it absorbs the maximum amount of sealer. This applies to water based sealers too.
If you feel the need to do something now, You can get a water proof tarp and cover your deck and then apply the sealers when the deck is dried out. Make sure to allow for air flow while the tarp is on the deck. Then keep the tarp on the deck until the sealer dries, still allowing for air flow. Otherwise, wait until spring. Good luck.
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Even if you put a tarp over it, it's still 40F and the air is humid most of the time. I doubt that the deck would dry out before springtime. And even if it does, it'll still be too cold to apply the sealer. Nov 21, 2019 at 17:47
It doubtless took years to get into this state. In winter, with cool temperatures, biological activity (mould, fungus) aren't going to proceed with any great speed. So, waiting until spring should be fine with very little additional deterioration.
Inquire with locals for confirmation: There may be merit in applying a fungicide at this time. In the horticulture trade Captan is used, as it's hard on most fungi, but benign to plants. This would stop any fungi in places you can reach.
answered Nov 21, 2019 at 20:53
