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At Savoy Timber, we’re experts when it comes to timber and composite decking, and our stunning range includes options for every type of outdoor space. As autumn approaches, you can feel it in the air – the weather is getting cooler, Halloween decorations and trick-or-treat sweets are starting to pop up in shops, and pumpkins are appearing in windows.
You might find yourself looking out of the kitchen window at your back garden, noticing the leaves starting to fall around your decking. And then you think, “Do I need to seal the decking before the cold really sets in?” The answer depends on the type of decking you have and when you last sealed your boards. Let’s talk about it!
If you have a composite deck, you’re in luck! Composite decking doesn’t need sealing. Composite boards are made from a blend of wood fibres and plastic, which means they’re naturally resistant to rot, decay, and splintering. Unlike timber, composite decking doesn’t absorb water, so you don’t have to worry about moisture damage. These boards also don’t need painting or staining, making them incredibly low-maintenance. All that’s required is a good clean to remove autumnal debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt, which can gather between the boards and leave unwanted stains and not to mention create slippery and unsafe surfaces.
If your deck is made of timber, it needs a bit more TLC. Timber decking needs to be sealed every 2-3 years to keep it in top condition. However, this timeline can vary depending on factors like the weather where you live and how exposed your deck is to the elements.
If it’s been a few years since you last sealed your timber deck, now could be your last chance to do it before winter arrives. Sealing your deck helps to protect it from water damage, which can cause rot, weaken the structure, and lead to costly repairs. A well-sealed deck not only lasts longer but also looks better for years to come.
Can’t remember when you last sealed your deck for a point of reference? No problem! There’s an easy test you can do. Simply pour a small amount of water onto the deck’s surface. If the water absorbs quickly into the wood, that’s a clear sign that it’s time to reseal. On the other hand, if the water beads on the surface, your deck is still protected, and you likely don’t need to seal it yet.
It’s a good idea to keep track of when you last sealed your deck so you can maintain a regular sealing schedule. This helps your deck withstand the elements better, especially during the autumn and winter months when debris build-up and freezing temperatures can cause warping, cracking, and splintering. It might not seem like that big of a deal but it can quickly spiral downhill into a costly repair or even the need to replace boards – so it’s not worth ignoring!
If you’ve decided that your decking does need sealing, you might wonder if it’s too late to do it in autumn. The good news is that sealing in autumn is still possible, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
While we recommend sealing your deck on a mild day in late spring or summer, autumn can work in a pinch – as long as the weather is right. The ideal temperature for sealing your deck is over 10 degrees Celsius, so early autumn days are often still suitable. However, rain is your main concern. The deck needs to be completely dry before sealing, and you’ll need at least 24-72 hours of dry weather afterward for the sealant to cure properly. If it rains before the deck is dry or during the curing process, the finish can be ruined, and the sealant won’t work effectively.
Some water-based sealants dry faster than oil-based ones, so keep this in mind when choosing your product. Provided the weather is mild and dry enough, you should be able to seal your decking just in time to protect it from the harsh winter weather. Our one tip would be to check the weather forecast, and then check it again, and again and again – we all know how temperamental British weather can be!
Once you’ve protected your timber decking from the elements, it’ll be ready to withstand the colder, wetter months ahead. After sealing, why not give it a seasonal touch by decorating it with pumpkins or spooky Halloween decor?
If you need supplies or advice for sealing your deck or if you’re thinking about upgrading your outdoor space, feel free to stop by one of our stores in Blackpool, Bradford, Wigan, or Preston. Or if you’re not local, you could always just give our expert a team call at 0345 0268 799 for some friendly, helpful advice over the phone!
