Ready for summer, Aotearoa? Got the BBQ sizzling and the sunscreen stocked up? There might be one thing you’ve missed—getting your deck sorted. Just like us, our decks need protection from the harsh New Zealand sun. They’re where summer memories are made—whether it’s soaking up the rays, cooling off in the pool, or having the whānau over for a good catch-up. So give your timber some love and keep it looking great with a fresh coat of stain or oil. But before you do, don’t skip the most important step… prep!
Prepare
Prepping your deck before coating ensures you get the best looking deck possible. Cabot's offer the essentials you'll need depending on the condition of your timber: Cabot's New Timber Prep, Cabot's Deck Clean, Cabot's Deck Brush, Cabot's Deck Hand Bucket. With Cabot's Deck Clean, your deck is clean and rejuvenated, working to clean grey, weathered and soiled timber, while removing mould and other contaminants. If your timber is new, New Timber Prep will remove tannins and oils meaning you can skip the 6 week weathering.
- Scrub damp timber with Cabot’s New Timber Prep, following the label instructions.
After using New Timber Prep, apply Cabot’s Deck Clean, following the label instructions.
- Use a squeegee on Cabot’s Deck Prep brush to remove excess water from the timber surface.
- Allow the timber to dry for at least 1 hour before coating.
- Note: Cooler conditions may slow down drying time.
Use sandpaper or a paint stripper to thoroughly remove the existing coating from the timber surface.
Clean with Cabot’s Deck Clean following the instructions provided on the product label for best results.
Use Cabot’s Deck Clean to clean the timber surface completely, following the label instructions.
Sprinkle a small amount of water on the timber surface.
If the water beads on the surface, the timber needs more sanding.
If the water soaks into the timber, it’s ready to be coated.
Sand back the surface to expose fresh wood.
Use Cabot’s Deck Clean to clean the surface and remove dust, dirt, and residue.
Once dried, your timber is ready for the next steps or use.
Application
- Generously apply the cleaning solution to the timber surface.
- Use a brush to scrub the timber vigorously, ensuring the solution penetrates well.
- Leave the solution on the timber for 10–20 minutes.
- Add more solution as needed to keep the surface from drying out.
- Garden Hose: Use the highest pressure setting to rinse thoroughly.
- Pressure Cleaner: If using one, select the lowest setting to avoid damaging the timber.
Follow with 2 to 3 coats of your chosen finish for one good looking deck! Check out Deck Clean and get your deck ready!
What you’ll need
