New decks have a green appearance naturally between boards which is the result of the preservative process and is unavoidable. As the timber weathers and is exposed to direct sunlight these variations will fade, become less obvious and eventually disappear, and after several years the deck surface will change to a silvery grey colour. The original preservative treatment will be unaffected and will continue to protect your Acorn deck.

Timber is a naturally beautiful product and varies in its grain pattern, density and weathering characteristics. Knots, checks, end splits and seasonal swelling and shrinking are inevitable and should be seen as part of the characteristics of your completed deck. Timber checks and end splits will occur, but are not usually structurally significant so will not affect the safety of your Acorn deck.

It is not necessary to apply additional preservative treatments, so the use of additional treatments is therefore your personal choice. However, to enhance and maintain its initial colour, minimize the natural effects of weathering and increase water repellence, decorative coatings are available. The use of any of these products should always be applied and maintained strictly in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.

Clear varnishes will turn yellow when exposed to ultra violet light. Eventually they may flake off because they are not flexible enough to take up any moisture movement of the wood. They also have limited vapour permeability so any moisture which penetrates the surface becomes trapped. Therefore, these types of finishes are not recommended.
Coatings such as teak oil tend to dry out too rapidly, so will not provide effective protection against moisture penetration unless applied very frequently. Linseed oil is not recommended because it encourages the growth of surface mould. However, specialist decking oil can be used to enhance and protect your deck.

Any surface finish will require regular inspection and occasional re-coating. Clear moisture resistant coatings should preferably be re-applied annually, but pigmented stains will last several years subject to manufactures recommendations. It is important that the deck board grooves and the gaps between boards are completely cleaned prior to any applications. It is advisable to use the same products for re-application to ensure that the new coating is compatible with the old.

The surface of the deck boards will undergo physical wear and tear through normal use. To minimize potential damage we recommend:
Rubber feet should be fitted to the legs of any heavy garden furniture placed on to the deck.
Free standing planters, tubs or pots should be raised from the deck to allow circulation and avoid mould growth.
Saucers or trays should be used to catch excess liquid from the watering of plants.
Large and heavy items should be placed on the deck with care.

Should any of deck components be seriously damaged, it is recommended that you contact Acorn Timber Services without delay, ensure the condition is not aggravated and ensure the deck is not used (if unsafe).

Annual cleaning is required to thoroughly clean the deck surface. This is best achieved with a power washer though care should be taken to avoid damage to the decking and any deck furniture, the intention is to clean the deck surface to prevent mould growth, not to saturate the timber.

Annual inspection should be conducted to include:
Removing any debris and check beneath the deck (if accessible) to determine if weed control is necessary.
Check all accessible bolts, screws and connections and tighten where necessary.
Check for any serious cracks or splits in the deck structure. If found, we advise you to contact Acorn Timber Services without delay. Ensure the condition is not aggravated and ensure the deck is not used (if unsafe).

Acorn Timber Services offer a three point service contract which can be carried out annually to keep your deck in top condition.

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