The most common timber decking problems – and how to solve them!

Timber decking is a relatively low-maintenance way to make your garden more accessible. That being said, it does still come with a little work if you want to keep it looking its best! There are also potential problems which can lead to bigger issues if left alone, which is why we recommend all our clients be vigilant with their decking checks.

High-end timber species such as Ipe, Cumaru and Yellow Balau, will not require much maintenance. But even the highest quality timber decking will still need to be looked after, here are some things to look out for:

Slippery Decking

One of the most common issues we see with timber decking is the boards becoming slippery. Typically this is caused by timber becoming wet, or the build-up of leaves and other debris lying on the surface of the wood. In themselves, these two factors can make a deck pretty slippery, but they also encourage the growth of algae and fungus which adds to the slick feeling of your boards.

How to Prevent Slippery Decking

Luckily, it is a simple task to prevent slippery decking. Start by adding an anti-slip solution – such as our GripChoice strips – to your boards. These are designed to bring extra friction to your decked area, helping everyone stay on their feet even in the rain.

You should also regularly clear your decking of leaves and other debris, such as twigs and moss. Use a stiff brush to get rid of dirt without damaging the wood, giving the timber a good clean every two weeks. Some people also like to use algae and moss killers if their decking is particularly susceptible; just make sure any products you apply to your decking are safe for use on wood.

Faded Decking

We love the silvery glow of weathered timber, but this is not going to be everybody’s cup of tea. The faded look of wooden decking boards occurs when it is exposed to sunlight and water, it does not mean that there are any structural problems. However, you can bring it back to its original colour for aesthetic purposes.

How to Prevent Faded Timber

To prevent your timber from weathering to silver, use a UV-resistant finishing product designed specifically for wood. This will not completely prevent the weathering process from fading your decking, but it will slow it.

How to Treat Faded Timber

For timber which is looking a little faded, you can look into decking restorers which contain Oxalic acid, and this helps to bring back the natural appearance of your timber species. You can also use coloured stains, oils and paints to add a little colour to your wood.

Blackened Decking

Blackening is always a risk when you have timber decking, but it does not mean it is the end of the line for your wood. These black areas are caused by fungi growing on wet wood, creating a pretty nasty black stain which can be a sign you are on your way to a rotten deck. In this case, it is vital you check whether your boards have good ventilation all around.

Or your black marks could have been caused by ferrous fixings, such as screws or nails, reacting with the tannin in your timber to create a dark stain.

How to Prevent Blackened Decking

To stop blackening before it starts, we recommend aiding water runoff by installing your decking boards at a very slight angle. You can also use anti-fungal washes and water-resistant coatings on your timber, keeping them safe from rot.

It is also crucial you use fixtures which are appropriate for timber. These include stainless steel and galvanised steel, both of which are corrosion-resistant and are less likely to stain your wood.

How to Treat Blackened Decking

If it is too late and you already have got black spots on your timber decking, there is no need to panic! Instead clean the wood with an anti-fungal or mould and mildew cleaner (checking it is safe for use on wood). Allow your timber plenty of ventilation and time to dry out, and clear it of standing water frequently.

You can also remove black stains by using Oxalic acid, being sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to stay safe.

Find Out More at EcoChoice

At EcoChoice, we are sustainable timber decking experts. To learn more about common timber problems or ask us a question about your decking, get in touch with us today. When it comes to your decking, we are always happy to help!