FAQs

Can I apply Anti-Slip Coating over Decking Oil?

No. We do not recommend applying Anti-Slip Coating on top of Decking Oil as it traps the oil underneath which can cause flaking and peeling. Prior to applying Anti-Slip Coating the decking should be cleaned thoroughly with Tough Deck Clean and Revive and left to dry for 24 hours before applying Anti-Slip Coating.

Can I use Decking Oil on hardwoods?

Decking Oil is not suitable for some foreign hardwoods such as iroko, balau, ipe and sapele which are naturally very oily. We advise for hardwoods be allowed to weather for 12 months.

How can I find out what the final finish will look like before I complete the whole job?

Always test and try products on spare wood or in an inconspicuous area to check for colour compatibility and end results first. Oil-based finishes will slightly darken the wood. A wet surface will be an indication of the final colour of most clear finishes.

How can I stop the grain being raised when I use water-based products?

Wet the wood first with water and then sand smooth and leave to dry before applying water-based products.

How often do I need to re-coat my decking?

Decking treated with Liberon Decking Oil will require recoating at least once or preferably twice a year (spring and autumn) depending on the climate where the decking is laid and how much use it is subject to.

I have applied wood dye but the colour has not penetrated evenly. What have I done wrong?

This is probably due to poor surface preparation. The secret to a professional finish is good surface preparation. Ensure all old finishes are removed completely by sanding the surface until it feels smooth to the touch. Wipe the surface with a tack cloth to make sure all the fine dust is removed.

I have applied woodstain to my exterior timber but it has started to flake. What has happened?

It is most likely that the timber was not fully dry when the woodstain was applied. It is vital that timber is completely dry before applying any finishing products. Beware that there may not have been any rain for a few days but there may have been a heavy dew overnight making the timber damp.

I have just laid a hardwood timber deck. When should I protect it?

New hardwood decking is best left untreated for up to 12 months. This gives time for the grain to open. If the timber is treated straight away the grain has not had time to open and therefore will not absorb oils or sealers and will just sit on the surface and go sticky. After a season untreated it is wise to test some oil on an inconspicious area of decking to see the results. If the timber absorbs the oil then it is fine to continue applying to the whole decking area.

I have pets. Are your products safe to use?

Yes all Liberon products are safe for pets once dry.

I have stripped the wood but the finish I have applied has not taken to the wood properly and has dried streaky. What should I do?

It is vital when using stripper or bleacher to neutralise the wood thoroughly before applying any finishing products. We recommend Wax & Polish Remover to neutralise stripper and bleacher. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours before commencing the wax, oil or varnish process. When using water-based varnishes wood bleacher must be rinsed thoroughly to remove all residues.

I would like to have the same colour for the end grain as the flat grain. How do I achieve this?

End grain absorbs more than flat grain hence why it is often darker. To avoid this brush on a coat of the solvent used in the finish ie. water or white spirit etc. on to the end grain before applying the finish.

The second coat of varnish is proving difficult to apply. What can I do to make this easier?

Cut back with Steel Wool Ultrafine Grade 0000 between coats of finish not just varnish but any finish. This provides a ‘key’ for the second coat to cling to and therefore makes it easier to apply and it also dries more evenly.

What is the ideal temperature for applying exterior oils and woodstain?

For oils it is best to apply when the temperature is a minimum of 14’C to ensure the product will dry well. For woodstains a minimum temperature of 12’C is recommended.