If your deck’s looking sad and splintery, read this 👇

Haymes Paint just fixed the biggest deck mistake locals keep making — without sanding a thing

May 27, 2025

Hardwearing Decks Start Here: Make the Most of Summer with Haymes Decking Oil

You don’t need a degree in timber science to keep a deck looking schmick — just the right tools, solid advice, and a few good weather days. That weather-beaten deck out back? It deserves better than another rushed DIY job or the cheapest tin of something off the shelf. What it needs is a little know-how and one very smart product.

"You thought your back deck was a write-off. One coat with Haymes Decking Oil and it looked 10 years younger." — Candeece

Old decks don’t have to look old

Decks cop a beating — full sun, wild rain, bird mess, the odd BBQ spill (RIP sausage #3). After just one harsh summer, raw timber can go grey, dry out, warp or crack — not to mention invite mildew, algae, and splinters big enough to write your name on. It’s no wonder folks put off deck maintenance. But it doesn’t have to be a massive ordeal.

Haymes Paint Woodcare Decking Oil solves the mess before it starts. It penetrates right into the timber, rather than sitting on top like a plastic coat doomed to flake. It repels water, fights mould, and protects against UV damage — all without that fake shiny deck look.

Why it works so well

This isn’t your average varnish job. Decking Oil works with the timber, not against it. The finish is breathable, which means it won’t trap moisture and cause peeling or bubbling down the line. It’s also tintable, so you can choose a colour that blends right into your home’s style — from classic Merbau to modern Jarrah tones.

We’ve stocked oils and sealers for over 30 years, and this is the one we trust for South Aussie homes. Locals tell us they love the natural finish, low maintenance, and how long it lasts between coats. And here’s the kicker — it’s easy to apply. No trade degree required.

Quick prep, smoother results

Want a pro finish without paying for one? It starts with preparation:

Sweep off debris and give your timber a good clean to remove grime and old finish.
Use Uni-Pro Deck Prep brushes from our store — they fit standard poles and make the job comfortable on your back.
Make sure the timber’s dry (two sunny days in a row should do it).

Then crack open your Haymes Decking Oil and apply with a lambswool applicator or brush, going with the grain. The oil soaks in quickly, so you’ll see the timber transform before your eyes — like watching fresh memories grow right there under your feet.

Deck life made low-maintenance

Some folks wait until their deck practically screams for help. But seasoned DIYers know a quick oil once a year saves all the headaches. Here’s the truth — if your decking oil is doing its job, you’ll spend less time scrubbing, sanding, and re-coating. And yes, that means more Saturday knock-offs spent actually relaxing out there.

Back in the day, maintaining an outdoor deck took a full weekend and a lot of elbow grease. Now? Two hours, a warm afternoon, and a good product will do you wonders — especially if you’re using the gear we recommend in store.

Not sure if your deck’s ready for oiling?

Here’s a quick test: sprinkle a few drops of water on the boards. If it sinks in, your deck’s ready to drink it up. If it beads up, the timber still has residue — give it a light sand or strip first.

It’s not just the deck — it’s what it holds

A timber deck is more than just planks and nails. It’s where kids pile out with icy poles, where cards are dealt on old camping tables, where muddy boots get kicked off after a long day on the job. When it’s looked after, it becomes part of the story of the home.

We get that. That’s why we don’t just sell the gear — we back it up with advice that makes sense. No hot air. Just real results, from people who’ve been there on the tools, and know what lasts in our tougher-than-average climate.

Here’s the part most people miss

You don’t need to do it all in one day. Treat the deck like you would a good piece of timber furniture — clean, oil, enjoy, repeat when needed. Miss that step, and you’re not just risking mould or cracks. You’re robbing your future self of the joy of that freshly-oiled timber glow.

So oil it before you forget it. Because whether it’s a post-storm comeback or a long-overdue spruce-up, a deck done right gives you back something more than timber — it gives you your summer Sundays back.

Cheers to feet-up weather and decks that don’t let you down,
Candeece