Professional advice
Cleaning a wooden deck before applying wood oil
In brief
Before applying a wood oil, the wood must be clean, de-greyed if needed and completely dry. Sweep, clean the boards and gaps with a suitable cleaner, rinse, then leave to dry for several days before applying the oil in thin coats, in dry weather and out of direct sunlight.
The steps, in order
- Clear and sweep the deck, including leaves stuck between the boards.
- Clean with an outdoor wood cleaner and a brush, along the boards.
- De-grey if the wood has turned grey: a de-greyer revives its original colour.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Leave to dry for several days without rain: wood oil applied to damp wood penetrates poorly.
- Apply the wood oil in thin coats, wiping off the excess to avoid sticky marks.
Mistakes that damage the wood
- High pressure that is too strong or too close, which tears the fibres and makes the wood rough.
- Wood oil applied in full sun or before rain.
- A coat that is too thick, which stays sticky and collects dirt.
What about composite decks?
They can be cleaned, but are not treated with wood oil. Regular cleaning is enough to keep them looking good.
When should it be done?
In spring to enjoy the deck all summer, or at the end of summer to protect it before winter. In the north of France, choose a period of a few dry days.
Written by Gautier Lauwerier, President of Maison Owlaris, in Steenvoorde. Maison Owlaris works throughout Hauts-de-France. Updated in October 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions.
Can a wooden deck be cleaned with black soap?
Yes, for light routine maintenance. For very grey or stained wood, a cleaner or de-greyer for outdoor wood is more effective.
How long should I wait before applying wood oil?
The wood must be thoroughly dry: allow several days without rain after cleaning as a rule, depending on the weather and the wood species.
How often should wood oil be applied?
Generally every year or every two years, depending on exposure and how much the deck is used.
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