Do I need to oil my deck?

[PL59]

Hi All,

Just moved into my new house, and looking to purchase outdoor furniture for the deck. I was thinking of re-oiling the deck to refresh it before putting furniture on it.

However my FIL said the timber had been painted, and therefore do not need to be oiled. A pressure wash would suffice. 

Just wanted to verify with the brain trusts here.

Pictures attached below.

Many thanks!

[Jewelleryrescue]

Hi @PL59 

I think  your FIL is right it looks like a coating that is not oil.  That means wood oil will not soak into the wood as the coating will resist it.

But  there is no harm in adding a gloss clear protection layer over it to keep it fresh looking there are a number of brands that will do this for you.:)

[MitchellMc]

Hi @PL59,

It looks like there’s some surface residue that needs to be removed with a good clean to get the deck looking its best, but overall, the coating appears to be in good shape. 

It appears to be a stain/paint combo rather than a traditional oil, so there’s no need to oil it. After cleaning, if you can share some updated pictures—especially of any faded, worn, or chipped areas—we can help determine if it’s time for a recoat. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[PL59]

Thanks Mitchell,

When you mention cleaning, is it just with a pressure washer or with a deck cleaner as well?

I have never cleaned the deck before, so I am looking to get started.

Any products recommendation is welcome

Thanks!

[MitchellMc]

You don't want to use deck cleaner on a painted surface and be very careful with any pressure washing as it can take off the paint @PL59. I'd just give it a mop down with some warm soapy water (a bit of dishwasher detergent) and rinse it off with the garden hose.

Mitchell