Why Preparation is Important Before Staining or Coating a timber deck

Mar 22, 2022 | News

Timber is a big investment! While it is important to make sure you choose the right protective coating system for your project, there is something else to consider first. The timber is properly prepared before applying the coating or finish. If you don’t prepare the timber you can end up with a poor quality finish that won’t last as long as it should.

But no need to worry, it’s easy to prepare timber and it only involves a few simple steps.

Clean the timber

Remove any soil or debris from the surface of the timber deck.

New timber – for timber that is under 12 months old or if the timber is high in tannins, use Sap Strip to remove mill glaze, tannins and extractives and to open the grain. This will prepare the timber and prevent poor adhesion and compromised performance.

Old weathered timber – Timber that has never been coated or if the oil stain has mostly worn away.  Apply a solution of Dex Prep to clean and brighten the old weathered, dirty or grey timber.

Old timber, previously coated with oil or stain – if the old oil or stain are still clearly visible in certain areas, use Power Clean first to remove the old stain or oil. Then neutralise the timber with Dex Prep before coating.

Old timber, previously painted – Use Q-Strip paint remover. It is safe to use around plants and will lift a coating in about 45 minutes (paint dependent). Once the paint has been removed wash with Dex Prep before applying the stain.

Apply the Finish (Oil or Stain)

Now the timber has been cleaned and prepared, apply a coat of Quantum Timber Finishes Decking Stain or Oil. Choose from Ecodex or Timbre Plus Decking in the colour of your choice and brush or roll on as directed.

The few points to remember:

Preparation is the key to a long-lasting finish. Putting the time in to clean and prepare the timber with the right products will pay off with not only a fantastic finish but will greatly enhance the longevity of the coating.

So here’s a quick recap on the preparation products. Also take a look at our Selector Chart to help you choose the right products for your project.

  • SAP STRIP – use on new timber under 12 months old. Removes tannins and extractives (no need to weather timber).
  • DEX PREP – timber cleaner that cleans and brightens old weathered and grey timber.
  • POWER CLEAN – removes old oils and stains to ensure an even finish.
  • Q-STRIP – removes old paint.

It’s tempting when painting or staining timber to get straight into it and skip over some of the more laborious tasks like cleaning. But for best results, you must take the time to clean the timber properly. If you skip the preparation, you risk having to repaint or restain your timber, which will be even more time-consuming – and not to mention expensive!

Still need some more information. Take a look at our video in action…