How to Bring Your Decking Back After Winter
Getting your outdoor space ready
By the end of winter, most decks are in need of some attention. Months of rain, frost and low sunlight leave many decks grey, covered in green algae and dangerously slippery. The good news is that a proper restoration can bring it back to life ready for warmer weather.
Why decks go grey and green
Untreated or poorly protected timber turns grey as UV light breaks down the surface fibres. In damp or shaded spots, algae and moss grow quickly, creating a slippery and potentially hazardous surface. Left untreated, boards may split, warp or loosen.
The restoration process
Cleaning
We start by deep cleaning the deck to remove grime, algae and any flaking old finish. A specialist decking cleaner is applied, worked into the grain and rinsed off, often revealing more colour than you would expect. The deck then needs time to dry thoroughly before sanding.
Repairs
Loose boards are re-fixed, protruding screws are replaced and badly damaged boards are swapped for new ones. This makes the deck safer and gives a better finish.
Smoothing the surface
Sanding removes the grey, weathered surface and any remaining coatings, revealing fresh timber underneath. It also smooths raised grain and splinters, making the deck more comfortable underfoot, particularly for bare feet and children.
Applying decking oil
Finally, the deck is treated with a quality UV-resistant decking oil. Oils soak into the timber, help repel water and slow down greying from sunlight, without forming a film that can peel. Clear and tinted options are available, depending on the look you want.
Is your deck worth restoring?
Even very weathered decking is usually worth saving. As long as the boards are not rotten and the frame underneath is sound, cleaning, sanding and oiling will usually bring them back. A simple test is to press a screwdriver into the boards and joists: if it sinks in easily, the timber may be rotten and need replacing. A few damaged boards can be replaced as part of the restoration without the cost of a new deck.
Restoring rather than replacing is also better for the environment, as it keeps good timber in use for longer.
When to restore decking
The ideal window for decking work is late spring into summer. Dry weather is essential, both for sanding and for giving the oil time to penetrate and cure. Booking early is a good idea, as many people want their decks ready for the first warm weekends. Autumn restorations are also possible, giving your deck extra protection before winter arrives.
Safety first
A green, slippery deck can be genuinely dangerous, especially for young children and older relatives. Regular cleaning and a good protective oil make the surface much safer underfoot.
Key points to remember
Even a grey, mossy and slippery deck can usually be brought back after a hard winter.
Restoration involves deep cleaning, repairs, sanding and a protective UV-resistant decking oil.
Check for rot with a screwdriver; soft timber may need replacing before restoration.
Late spring and early summer are ideal, as the timber and oil need dry weather.
Re-oiling once a year keeps the deck protected and avoids a bigger restoration later.
Keeping decking looking good
Keep the deck clear of leaves and debris.
Treat green patches as soon as they appear.
Keep drainage gaps between boards clear.
Re-oil once a year, ideally in spring or early summer.
Move plant pots and furniture occasionally to avoid damp patches.
With an annual maintenance coat, your decking will stay protected and looking good for many seasons. The longer it is left, the more work will be needed to restore it.
Ready to enjoy your deck again? Our decking restoration service is available throughout Cobham for decks of every size. You can check typical costs on our prices page.