How to seal a new Merbau deck?

Innov8tive

This is a completely brand new merbau deck. The person that built it recommended 50% linseed oil and 50% turpentine to seal the deck.

I have a Wagner spray gun machine and was intending to use it to seal the deck.

My questions are, can turpentine and linseed oil be used in the Wagner or will that cause other jobs such as paint spraying any more challenging?

I'm assuming it will if it is not thoroughly cleaned after use.

MitchellMc

Hi @Innov8tive,

As the linseed oil and turpentine combination is a home-brew mix, I'd suggest directing the questions about spraying it back to the person who built your deck and recommended the solution. They might have experience applying that particular mixture with a sprayer.

Typically these days, you'd use a purpose-made decking oil such as Cabot's Aquadeck or Natural Decking Oil. Decking oils are generally applied quite liberally as the timber needs to absorb a significant amount of product, so you'll most commonly see them applied with a lambswool decking applicator or brush rather than a spray gun.

Also, as this is new Merbau, you'll need to allow the timber to naturally weather so the tannins and extractives can leach out before coating it. Alternatively, you can speed up the process by using https://www.bunnings.com.au/cabot-s-4l-new-timber-prep_p1520593 to prepare new timber for coating. Whichever method you choose, follow the preparation requirements of the decking oil you intend to use.

I'd also recommend checking Wagner's instructions before putting the linseed oil and turpentine mixture through your machine. Unless Wagner specifically confirms those products are suitable for your particular sprayer, I wouldn't recommend using them in it.

Here's a helpful step-by-step guide: How to oil your deck.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell