Oiling New Merbau deck - how long it can be delayed?

[RJ2]

Hi Bunnings Community, I’m back with another question.

We recently had our deck installed (about 6–7 weeks ago) and it looks like most of the tannin has now been removed. I’ve used Cabot’s Timber Deck Cleaner and the deck is looking to be in good condition.

I’d now like to oil the deck and have purchased Cabot’s Aquadeck Natural. However, I’m running into an issue: the Himalayan Ash tree overhanging the deck is dropping a lot of fine flowers early in the morning and late evening, when thousands of bees visit it to collect pollen and nectar.

I have a few questions:
• Is it okay to oil the deck while these fine flowers are falling, or should I use a tarp to prevent them landing on the surface while I’m working?

• How soon is too soon for the flower to be dropping on the deck while oiling?
  • The safest option might be to wait until the tree finishes flowering, which could take another 4–6 weeks, but I’m concerned that waiting too long may expose the Merbau to too much sun.

Any advice would be appreciated.

[JacobZ · Accepted solution]

Hi @RJ2,

The critical period is the first one to two hours after application, when the oil is at its tackiest. Once it begins to settle, light debris is less likely to stick, and after about four to six hours, Aquadeck is usually dry enough that falling flowers will not cause issues.

If there is a practical way to set up a tarp so that it is not in direct contact with the deck, like a canopy, then this would be an option, but looking at the size of the deck, it wouldn't be easy to do.

In saying this, I would agree that the safest and, in my opinion, best option, is to wait till the tree finishes flowering. As long as water is not allowed to pool on your deck, then another 4-6 weeks will not be an issue. You will just need to give it another clean with the deck cleaner before applying your decking oil.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[RJ2]

Thanks @JacobZ that’a very helpful. I will wait for another 4-5 weeks as you are right, covering the deck with tarp won’t be an easy task. 

[RJ2]

@JacobZ  Just wanted to give you a quick update. The bees have finally taken a break from our tree, so I went ahead and oiled the deck. Since it’s in full sun, I applied three coats and I think it turned out pretty well.

I did have one question though—while oiling, I noticed some of the merbau boards were quite rough, possibly from weathering. Should those have been sanded smooth first? I’ve oiled them as-is for now, but if sanding is recommended, I’d be happy to do it when I re-oil next spring (if its ok to leave them as is).

[Jason]

Looks great @RJ2. Nice work. 

I would hold off sanding until the boards are unevenly weathered in appearance. 

Jason

[EricL]

Hello @RJ2 

You've done a wonderful job! I suggest sanding it down next spring for the meantime enjoy your freshly oiled deck.

Happy Holidays!

Eric