Should I oil or varnish a new Spotted Gum deck?

[beemerx65]

hi all

im asking for advice. I’ve just finished my deck. I’ve used spotted gum. I’ve just finished sanding ready for sealing it. It will be predominant under cover of pergola. What would you recommend as to oil or varnish?? 
tia 😁

[MitchellMc]

Hi @beemerx65,

Typically, decking oil is used to protect a timber deck. You apply a new coat every year or bi-yearly to keep the deck protected. Unless you skip some years or it is heavily weathered, there is no need to sand in-between coats. The issue with varnish is that once it wears down, you'll need to sand the varnish off before applying a new coat. Due to this significant amount of additional work, varnishes are not generally used on decks. I am also not aware of any varnishes suitable for exterior use that are also trafficable.

It would be my advice to go with an oil. Here's a helpful step by step guide: How to oil your deck.

Please let me know if you have further questions.

Mitchell