Decking Restoration
Weathered garden decks brought back to life with cleaning, sanding and protective oil.
British weather is hard on garden decking. Fortunately, the damage is usually only skin deep, and careful sanding reveals sound, attractive timber below.
Our Cobham team applies the same care to decking as to indoor floors. The result is a deck that looks good, feels safer underfoot and is protected for seasons to come. Spring is a good time to book — see our article on decking restoration after winter.
What decking restoration involves
Deep clean to remove algae, moss and dirt
Repairs to split or rotten boards
Sanding to remove grey, weathered fibres and raised grain
Protective decking oil with UV filters
Hardwood and softwood decks
We restore treated softwood decks as well as hardwoods such as balau, ipe and oak. Grooved and smooth boards both respond well, although grooved boards need extra cleaning. Wooden steps and benches can be done at the same time.
Maintenance
A light clean each spring and a fresh coat of oil every year or two will keep the deck protected. Just as indoor floors benefit from re-oiling, decks need regular oil to stay water-resistant.
Is it time?
Faded, silver-grey timber
Green algae making the surface slippery
Rough, splintering surfaces
Patchy, flaking coatings
Tackling these early stops water soaking deep into the boards, which leads to splitting and rot. Most decks are restored in one or two days, depending on size and condition. We need a dry spell for the oil to cure, so we plan the work around the forecast. Late spring and early autumn are usually ideal.
Repairs and safety
We inspect the boards and visible frame as we clean. Split, soft or rotten boards are replaced with matching timber, and raised screws are tightened or replaced with stainless steel fixings. If the frame underneath needs attention, we will tell you before carrying on.
Because outdoor timber faces the weather, we will explain at the survey what our service guarantee covers for decking. Guide prices for decking are on our prices page.
Guide prices
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Decking restoration
Clean, sand and protect with UV-resistant decking oil.
from £15 per m²
Guide prices — we confirm a fixed price after a free survey.
Questions about decking restoration
What do you need from us on the day?
We need access to a standard power socket and, ideally, parking near the property. Everything runs from your normal sockets, and we bring all tools, materials and dust sheets.
How often should decking be oiled?
Once a year is a good rule of thumb. South-facing decks in full sun may need it sooner. Regular oiling stops the wood drying out and greying.
Can you replace rotten decking boards?
Yes — we replace rotten or split boards before sanding. New boards are blended in once the whole deck is oiled.
What does floor sanding cost per square metre?
Prices depend on the floor area, condition, repairs needed and the finish you choose. Our price list shows typical starting prices, and the free survey gives you a fixed written quote.
Is it worth restoring old decking?
In most cases, yes. We clean, sand and treat the boards with a UV-resistant decking oil that brings back the colour and reduces slipperiness. See our decking restoration service.
When is the best time to restore decking?
Late spring to early autumn is ideal. The timber needs a few dry days so the oil can soak in properly. Our guide to decking after winter explains how to prepare.
What our customers say
Floorboards transformed
“From the survey to the final coat the team were punctual, tidy and genuinely cared about the result. There was virtually no dust and the floor looks incredible.”
Weybridge
Professional from start to finish
“The team fitted the work around our weekly bookings, finished on schedule and left the hall spotless. The hall feels bright and welcoming again.”
Stoke d'Abernon
Herringbone hallway looks stunning
“Our 1930s herringbone hallway had years of grime and old varnish. Three days later it is flat, smooth and glowing. Visitors always comment on it now.”
Claygate