Water based v Oil Based Decking Protection
A well-maintained timber deck not only enhances the beauty of your outdoor space but also adds value to your property. One crucial aspect of deck maintenance is choosing the right type of protective finish. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between water-based and oil based decking oil to help you make an informed decision for your deck.
Water-Based Oil:
Pros
1. Quick Drying: Water-based oils are known for their fast-drying properties. This means you can enjoy your freshly coated deck sooner and with minimal downtime.
2. Low Odor: One of the advantages of water-based oils is their low odour compared to traditional oil-based products. This makes the application process more comfortable for both the applicator and those in the vicinity.
3. Environmentally Friendly: Water-based oils are generally considered more environmentally friendly as they contain fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This makes them a preferred choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
4. Easy Cleanup: Cleaning up after applying water-based oil is a breeze. You can typically clean your tools with water, reducing the use of harsh chemicals.
5. Colour Retention: Water-based oils tend to retain the natural Colour of the wood, offering a clear finish that showcases the beauty of the timber.
Cons
1. Peeling: If not properly maintained they can be prone to flaking / peeling / chips / cracks blisters.
2. Maintenance: If not regularly maintained and it gets to the above stage then its costly to resolve. It would typically involve sanding back to bare timber or the use of chemical strippers. Both are hard work and time consuming, and ultimately costly.
3. Wood Grain: As water based typically sits on top of the timber, a build up of applications and eventually you will lose the appearance of the natural grain of the timber.
4. Not As Forgiving: Due to the faster drying time it may not be as forgiving during application, if not careful you could potentially end up with brush marks in the finish.
Oil Based:
Pros
1. Deep Penetration: Straight oils, being oil-based, penetrate deep into the wood fibres, providing excellent nourishment and protection from within. This can enhance the longevity of your deck.
2. Richer Finish: If you're looking for a finish that brings out the natural richness of the wood, straight oil is a great choice. It often results in a warm, deep Colour that adds character to the deck.
3. Easy Recoating: Straight oil allows for easy maintenance and recoating. It blends seamlessly with the existing finish, eliminating the need for extensive preparation.
4. Water Resistance: While water-based oils are water-resistant, straight oils provide an additional level of water repellency, helping to protect the wood against moisture damage.
Cons
1. Effectiveness: Typically an oil based does not last as long as a water based oil. Oil based will likely need redoing every 6-12 months depending on exposure to the weather.
2. Less Environmentally Friendly: Not as ECO friendly due to the higher levels of VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds). Also due to the VOC's they have a higher odour than water based. The odour may last for a few days after application.
3. Drying Time: May need 24 hours and possibly 48 hours drying time (in cooler weather). May not be suitable for wet or humid climates.
4. Clean Up: Doesn't clean up in water and may need soapy water and in some circumstances mineral turpentine to clean up.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the choice between water-based oil and oil based oil depends on your preferences, the specific needs of your deck, and your commitment to maintenance. Water-based oils are convenient and eco-friendly, while oil based oils offer a richer finish and deeper protection. Consider factors such as drying time, odour, environmental impact, and the desired look for your deck when making your decision.
Remember, regular maintenance and timely reapplication are key to ensuring the long-lasting beauty and durability of your timber deck.
Choose wisely, and enjoy your well-protected, stunning deck for years to come!
Cheers
Ian