Timber Decking Melbourne

Taking proper care of wood in external applications is critical since it not only protects your decking but also enhances the natural look and feel of the wood. As a result of shielding it from the elements, you’ll be improving its resilience to rot, decay, and insect assault.

When it comes to decking protection, general-purpose wood enhancer, or situations where additional durability is required, our team of skilled personnel will be able to advise on the most appropriate solution for the task. For any assistance you may need, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

If you have a deck, particularly one that is in a shaded or rainy position, you must recognise that mould is a natural component of the ecology. It will grow regardless of whether you choose redwood, cedar, or pressure-treated decking, or if you paint the wood. If you want to keep mould and mildew under control, you must clean your deck on a regular basis. The best thing to use is not chlorine bleach, but rather simple water and maybe some detergent.

The world is home to more than a million different fungal species, and mould is a word used to describe some of them. Fungi need moisture in order to thrive, and decking boards that do not get enough sunshine to dry out supply enough of it, as well as the cellulose on which some of the more deadly species, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, feed. This greenish-black mould not only looks ugly, but it also makes the deck slippery and hazardous, and the spores that it produces may induce respiratory sickness and allergic responses in those who are sensitive to mould. Furthermore, black mould is often associated with wood-eating fungus, which may result in rot, which can cause your deck to disintegrate.

While chlorine bleach is effective in killing surface mould, it should be avoided in the majority of situations for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the fact that it is harmful to the environment and hazardous to plants. Because bleach has a high surface tension, it is unable to penetrate into the wood and destroy the mould roots that have been lodged in it. Deck mould is best treated using pressurised steam, although in the absence of steam, a thorough washing with a basic cleaning solution would suffice in most cases. Using a pressure washer is an optional step that may assist speed up the washing and rinsing process as well as brighten the wood prior to refinishing a deck.

When cleaning a deck, you seldom require more than 1,500 psi of pressure, and practically any pressure washer — even a light-duty electric one — can generate this amount of pressure. A 40- or 60-degree nozzle and a pressure of 800 to 1,000 psi are usual for routine deck cleaning. You may easily harm the wood by using too much pressure, using a nozzle that is too small, or by holding the nozzle too near to the deck surface.

Cleaning the decking planks should be done in a methodical manner, beginning at an interior corner of the deck and working your way out. When scrubbing with a soap solution, use the same steps as before. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the deck with a garden hose to eliminate all of the soap, which might make the deck slippery.

Mold may be removed from a finish that you don’t want to harm with the use of a pail filled with water and a combination of 1/3 cup laundry detergent per gallon of water, as well as a scrub brush. If the mould has discoloured the wood, a deck cleaner that contains oxygen bleach may be used to remove the spots.

White vinegar is still another possibility. A solution of one part water to one part vinegar may be used as an anti-mildew spray. To wet the deck, use a spray bottle full of water. Baking soda may also be used; however, it should not be mixed with vinegar unless you want your back deck to become a science fair project for your children. For spreading and cleaning, a broom or a brush with strong bristles is your best choice. Combine one cup of baking soda with one gallon of warm water and scrape away. When you’re finished, rinse the area clean with a garden hose.

If you use a deck cleaning that contains oxygen bleach, it may be preferable to follow up with a deck brightening solution that is compatible with the cleaner. The acid in brighteners helps to balance the high pH of oxygen bleach cleansers, making the wood more stable for finishing.

One of the most effective methods of preventing mould development is to sweep your deck on a regular basis. It disperses leaves and other debris that mould might develop beneath, and it inhibits the roots of spores that have dropped on the deck. It is also necessary to keep the wood dry. While it may be tough on the areas of the deck that are always in shade, you may at least ensure that your gutters are in excellent working order to minimise runoff. When you sweep the deck, use a putty knife to remove dirt from between the boards; this improves drainage and helps to keep the sides and undersides of the decking boards dry.

Your wood deck is a lovely outdoor feature that is also a wonderful area for family get-togethers to take place. However, it will need regular upkeep, just like any other outdoor wood, if you want it to retain its lovely appearance over time.

If you’re unfamiliar with the process of applying oil to timber decking, or if you’re more experienced with the application of decking stain, it may be difficult to know how to properly prepare and treat your hardwood deck. The last thing you want to do is speed through the process and wind up with less protection than you need.

Here’s all you need to know about applying decking oil to a newly constructed wood deck.

One of the first things you’ll need to do before oiling your wood deck is to inspect it to see how well it’s holding up against the elements. The majority of new decking products on the market today will come pre-treated with a wood preservative that is already designed to protect against insects and wood disease. You can tell whether the deck has been pre-treated by checking for a surface that is a shade or two darker than the colour of the wood inside the individual boards.

If you’ve just completed installing your wooden deck, most decking manufacturers suggest that you allow the wood to weather naturally for a period of time before using it again. The amount of time you’ll need to wait before adding a stain, colour, or oil coat may vary depending on the kind of wood you’re working with and the weather conditions you anticipate in your location. It is possible to keep decking exposed to the elements for up to six months in certain sunny locations.

In order to guarantee that your deck has enough UV protection and mould resistance, several wood decking suppliers recommend waiting no more than four to six weeks before applying an oil coating.

Because the wood has a high concentration of oils and tannins, weathering your deck is vital. Because of the exposure your boards get from the sun and rain, these compounds will begin to leach out of the wood, preparing the wood for proper response to your treatment. Applying decking oil too rapidly may result in the coating of your deck being damaged.

Spotted Gum
Designers and architects throughout the globe like spotted gum, one of the most regularly used Australian hardwoods, for its gorgeous grain structure and charming patterns. It is one of the most commonly used hardwoods in the world.

It’s our favourite materials that sell quickly and easily as  a result of its toughness and ability to function well in Australia’s variable environment, it is also a low-staining wood, as it is less susceptible to leak tannins than other species.

When it comes to treating the decking, we often stick to using a natural wood oil that isn’t tinted, since the last thing you want to do is detract from the decking’s naturally attractive look.

Teak
When it comes to performance, teak outperforms all other hardwoods on this list. In above-ground applications, it is easy to work with and retains fasteners securely. It has a lifespan of up to 40 years. Australian climates are also ideal for teak wood’s durability.

In terms of furniture, teak is a popular option because of its attractive light colour that responds well to staining and refinishing.

The fact that it functions effectively and has a half-life equivalent is frequently difficult to explain because of the high cost.

Blackbutt
As a result of its high fire resistance, blackbutt is often included on lists of authorised hardwoods for fire-prone areas, depending on where you reside.

Regarding performance, blackbutt is a pleasure to work with and is very long-lasting when properly maintained. There are no warps or splits in the material when exposed to the Australian environment.

It is possible that oiled blackbutt will have a yellowish or reddish tint to it, which is an undesirable characteristic. Instead of using natural timber oil on blackbutt, I’ve switched to utilising a silver-tinted oil on the hardwood. So that the wood is maintained and retains its lovely natural colour, it is coated with a protective coating.

Grey ironbark.

Though it has a lovely silvery grey colour, ironbark is a difficult wood to deal with because of its fragile nature. In regions that are not exposed to the elements, it functions well; but, it suffers in areas that get both rain and sunlight, which is frequently the case in Australia’s variable weather.

Grey ironbark is a highly heavy and thick wood that may be difficult to deal with because of its weight and dense nature. The dressed surfaces really take on a silvery steel lustre, as you’ll see when you examine them close up.

When planted in locations shielded from direct sunlight and rain, grey ironbark has shown to be a very successful choice; nevertheless, when planted in regions completely exposed to the elements, it has splintered and split.

Melbourne customers who know what they’re doing will only buy from Melbourne Floors Mart since our wood decking prices in Melbourne are among the most competitive and economical in the city. We have our own sawmill in remote New South Wales, as well as three showrooms in and around Melbourne. Today is the day to stop by for factory direct wood pricing and one of the most extensive timber selections available anywhere in Australia! For further information, please contact us now, or just stop by one of our conveniently located showrooms.

Timber decking involves the construction of platforms or terraces using timber planks. These decks are commonly found in gardens, patios, and around pools, creating visually pleasing spaces. Timber decking introduces an inviting ambiance to any area and can be tailored to suit different design preferences. Melbourne Floors Mart offers expert advice and quality materials to help you create the perfect deck for your outdoor space.

In Melbourne’s climate, it is essential to select timber species that can endure the weather conditions. The top choices for decking in this area include:

• Merbau: Recognised for its durability and ability to withstand termites and rot.
• Spotted Gum: A dense wood that resists decay while offering an attractive appearance.
• Jarrah: A hardwood timber known for its durability and resistance to weather and pests, boasting a rich brown hue.
• Treated Pine: A softwood option that offers a budget-friendly alternative, treated to fend off decay and insects.

These timber options are well-suited for Melbourne’s changing climate, ensuring your deck stays in top shape year-round. Melbourne Floors Mart provides these high-quality timber options to ensure your decking withstands the local climate.

Hardwood decking, sourced from slow-growing trees, is known for its robustness and ability to withstand wear and tear. Varieties such as Merbau, Spotted Gum, and Jarrah are perfect for high-traffic areas due to their beauty and durability.

Conversely, softwood timber decking is derived from fast-growing trees and tends to be less dense. While options like Treated Pine are more affordable and simpler to work with, they may not offer the same level of durability as hardwoods. Nevertheless, following Melbourne Floors Mart’s upkeep advice and with attention, softwood decks can still provide a visually appealing solution.

In terms of longevity compared to other decking materials, timber decking can endure for decades with the right care. With proper maintenance practices in place, timber decks have the potential to last 20 to 30 years or longer. Compared to composite decking materials, timber offers durability and natural beauty that may be lacking in materials like PVC or aluminium. Regular care such as sealing and treating for pests can help prolong its lifespan.

Melbourne Floors Mart’s timber decking is considered eco-friendly for several reasons:

• Many types of timber come from sustainably managed forests.
• Wood naturally absorbs CO2, contributing to reducing carbon emissions.
• Timber can be reused or repurposed at the end of its life, minimising waste.

Opting for certified timber supports sustainable forestry practices, which play a role in preserving ecosystems and reducing environmental harm.

Absolutely! You can install timber decking over an existing patio by creating a frame on top of the surface and securing the decking boards onto it. This method revitalises concrete areas and creates a fresh outdoor space. Proper installation ensures ventilation and drainage, preventing moisture accumulation and extending the longevity of your deck. Melbourne Floors Mart can assist with professional installation to ensure your decking project is successful.

To safeguard timber decking against damage, it is recommended to treat the wood with specialised insecticides and preservatives. The process involves several steps:

• Use timber that has already been treated with chemicals that repel termites.
• Apply a surface coating to deter termites and other pests.
• Conduct regular checks and reapply treatments as necessary to maintain long-term protection.

By using treated timber and maintaining a barrier against termites, you can help prevent infestations and keep your deck safe.

Hardwood types of timber decking are robust enough to withstand heavy foot traffic and outdoor furniture. Hardwoods are dense and resistant to damage like dents and scratches, making them suitable for high-traffic outdoor spaces. Softwoods can also handle traffic well with proper treatment and upkeep. To prolong the lifespan of your deck, it’s advisable to use pads under furniture legs and avoid dragging objects across the surface. Melbourne Floors Mart’s durable timber decking options ensure your outdoor space remains beautiful and functional.

There are several ways to incorporate timber decking into garden layouts:

• Multi-Level Decks: Design decks with different levels for dining, relaxing, or gardening purposes.
• Integrated Planters: Incorporate planters into the deck to seamlessly blend with your garden.
• Shade Structures: Enhance the appeal and provide shelter by adding pergolas or shade sails.
• Bridges: Utilise timber decking to create pathways or bridges over garden elements like ponds or flower beds.

These design concepts aim to create a cohesive space that integrates well with your garden. Melbourne Floors Mart can help bring these creative ideas to life with customised decking solutions.

Yes, certain timber decking options offer slip resistance. For better traction, consider:

• Opt for timber with a textured surface for enhanced grip.
• Apply anti-slip coatings specifically designed to increase traction.
• Select boards with grooves to help channel water away and reduce slippery surfaces.

These choices can enhance the safety of your deck. Melbourne Floors Mart provides various anti-slip solutions to ensure your deck is safe and functional.

Melbourne Floors Mart (MFM) provides a range of colour options for timber decking, including:

• Natural Tones: From light yellows to browns and deep reds.
• Stains and Finishes: Various staining and finishing options can complement or alter the wood’s natural colour.
• Custom Colours: Choose from a variety of custom colour options to perfectly match your design preferences.

These colour selections give you the flexibility to personalise your deck to harmonise with the exterior of your home and reflect your style.

On average, a timber deck can last between 20 to 30 years, depending on the wood type and maintenance practices. To increase the longevity of your deck:

• Maintenance: Keep your deck clean by sweeping off debris and giving it periodic cleaning.
• Sealing and Staining: Apply sealants and stains to shield against moisture and UV rays.
• Proper Care: Treat the wood to prevent termite or insect infestation.
• Prevent Water Buildup: Ensure proper drainage to prevent water from accumulating on the deck.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly extend the durability and attractiveness of your deck, ensuring it stays a valuable addition to your home for many years. Melbourne Floors Mart offers expert maintenance advice to help you keep your decking in top condition.

Our goal in addressing these queries is to offer insights into timber decking, assisting you in making well-informed choices for your outdoor space in Melbourne. Whether you prioritise durability, appeal, or eco-friendliness, Melbourne Floors Mart timber decking provides a sustainable solution.