What is the Best Decking Oil in Australia? The Ultimate List

Timber decking is durable but it still requires regular maintenance, particularly in locations with harsh weather conditions. Timber decking oil is a highly effective method that provides protection from humidity, excess moisture, and direct sunlight. But what are the different kinds of decking oil, and what is the best for your deck?

Advantages of decking oil

Compared to paint, decking oil has a range of valuable advantages:

1. UV protection. Decking oil can help protect timber from sun damage by blocking UV rays. This minimises fading, bleaching and deteriorating and will help maintain the timber’s natural colour.
2. Protection from low humidity. It is common for timber floors to look noticeably different from other times of the year. Decking oil can help minimise the effects of low humidity.
3. Moisture resistance. Decking oil repels water and prevents it from soaking into the wood. This minimises cracking, swelling, and warping over time, regardless of humidity and frequent rain events.
4. Temperature extremes. In areas where temperatures vary significantly, decking oils that provide flexibility and resistance to thermal expansion and contraction can help preserve the deck’s look and structural integrity.
5. Enhances wood grain. Unlike paint, decking oil penetrates deep into timber, bringing out the natural textures and patterns. It enhances the natural look of the wood grain and will give your deck a smooth finish.
6. Preventing mould and mildew. Decking oil acts as a protective barrier by preventing mould and mildew growth (which can thrive in our warm, humid climate).
7. Longevity and durability. Deck oil nourishes timber, keeping it flexible and less prone to cracking. Regular application can enhance its lifespan.
8. Slip resistance. Many decking oils are formulated to add a layer of slip resistance. This is a significant benefit, particularly when decks become slippery from humidity or rain.
9. Easy application. Compared to painting (which often requires sanding or priming), applying decking oil is typically straightforward and an ideal time-saving choice.
10. Restoration. Decking oil can breathe new life into weathered and/or older decks. It can restore the wood’s appearance and improve its condition by adding moisture back into the timber.

Which is the best decking oil?

The ideal type of oil for your deck will vary based on how you use it, the level of exposure it receives from the elements, any previous oil treatments, and the species of wood it is constructed of. When timber is purchased, it typically includes guidelines from the manufacturer regarding the most suitable maintenance products, so consult your timber supplier for advice. In terms of decking oils on the market, there are two main types—water-based and oil-based based.

Water-based decking oil

Water-based oils are popular due to their lower environmental impact and shorter drying times. They are ideal for new decking or lightly weathered timber and have a matte or low-sheen finish. Although they offer good UV protection, they are best for shaded decks.

Oil-based decking oil

Oil-based decking oils are known for their durability and deeper penetration into the timber. They offer a deep colour saturation and more robust protection against harsh outdoor elements. They are ideal for hardwood decking, in humid and coastal areas, and also offer mould, mildew, and UV resistance.

Best decking oil Australia – Things to consider

1. Type of timber. Different types of timber may require different decking oils to maximise their durability and aesthetics. Softwoods (like pine) might benefit from an oil-based product providing the necessary penetration. Hardwoods like Merbau and Spotted Gum may offer more flexibility, allowing you to choose between oil-based or water-based oils. (Read on for more information on what oil to use for one of our favourite decking timbers, Spotted Gum).
2. Grain penetration. This refers to how deeply a timber oil seeps into the wood. Greater penetration is crucial because it results in a more uniform finish and enhances protection against moisture.
3. Potential for flaking or peeling. This aspect reflects the oil quality and impacts the timber’s visual appeal and the level of protection. Decks that experience flaking look ”scaly” and unattractive. Some timber oils are more susceptible to flaking or peeling, particularly when exposed to direct sunlight. Once the oil begins to lift, moisture can enter the timber grain, leading to swelling, splitting, and rot. Selecting a decking oil with superior grain penetration can help mitigate this risk.
4. Desired finish. These range from satin to matte, gloss, or high-sheen. While durability is essential, it is equally crucial for your decking to maintain an appealing appearance.
5. Climate. Climate significantly impacts the performance of decking oil. If you live in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions, an oil-based product is worth considering as it will penetrate timber and offer more protection than water-based products.
6. Maintenance. Decking oils require regular maintenance and are not a one-time solution. They must be reapplied every 12 to 18 months to minimise deterioration and ensure your deck remains shielded from the elements.

Best decking oil in Australia – Our recommended brands

Intergrain Deck Oil

Intergrain decking oil provides several notable features, including a guarantee that it won’t flake, blister, or peel. This brand is compatible with a variety of timber types, including native options like Jarrah, Merbau, and Spotted Gum.

Intergrain UltraDeck

Ultradeck stands out as one of the most popular products within the Intergrain range. This water-based formula is tailored for external applications in Australia’s challenging environments. It offers good coverage, however, some prep is required, including sanding back decks that have experienced significant weathering. If your deck is in a decent condition, a thorough cleaning may be all that’s needed.

Sikkens Decking Oil

Sikkens provides a great alternative to Intergrain. Its focus is on enhancing the natural beauty of timber decking instead of masking it. Oil and water-based solutions are available for both exposed and covered outdoor decking. The brand also offers non-slip finishes, making them ideal for areas prone to rain.

The best decking oil for Spotted Gum decks

Spotted Gum is a type of eucalyptus native to Australia, primarily found on the eastern coast. This timber is known for its stunning array of colours and its distinctive wavy texture. However, the timber is not cheap, so if you’ve chosen to enhance your home with a beautiful Spotted Gum deck, maintaining its radiant appearance is vital, including applying a high-quality deck oil at least once a year.

Intergrain UltraDeck

Intergrain is renowned for producing top-tier timber treatment products. Their water-based decking oil forms a protective barrier on the wood, safeguarding it from harsh weather conditions and wear from foot traffic. Because it’s water-based, this oil helps retain and highlight the timber’s natural hues. It dries quickly, has minimal odour, and, when applied correctly, resists peeling and blistering. UltraDeck is available in a specific Spotted Gum shade, but you can also select from other colours like natural, Merbau, or Jarrah.

Intergrain Nature’s Timber Oil

Another excellent option from Intergrain is their oil-based product, Nature’s Timber Oil, which works wonderfully on Spotted Gum. Unlike water-based oils that create a surface barrier, oil-based solutions deeply penetrate the wood, saturating its cells and helping to prevent drying. This product includes ingredients that repel water and protect the wood from harmful UV rays and mould. Because it deeply permeates the timber, oil-based products generally produce a richer colour than their water-based counterparts.

How to oil your deck

Re-oiling your deck is a crucial aspect of outdoor maintenance, as it provides an additional layer of protection to the wood, enhancing its longevity. The initial indicators that it might be time to reapply oil include signs of degradation, unevenness, or discoloration around the edges and various spots on the deck. If you notice these signs, it’s time to gather your safety gloves, hose, and oil and start the process!

Tools and materials

1. Your preferred deck oil
2. A bucket
3. Safety gloves
4. Hose
5. Oil applicator
6. Paint stirrer
7. Paint can opener
8. Paintbrush

Process

1. Gather your tools and materials. Start by collecting all the necessary tools and supplies and have them close at hand.
2. Remove dust and debris. Clear your deck of all furniture and items, then sweep the surface thoroughly to eliminate any dust or dirt.
3. Clean the deck. After removing debris, dampen the deck with a hose. Use an appropriate deck cleaner (follow the manufacturer’s instructions) and scrub the surface areas vigorously. Rinse the deck with a pressure washer or garden hose and let it dry completely.
4. Prepare the oil. After the deck is completely dry, prepare your decking oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Assess your deck. If more than cleaning is required. If worn through in parts please engage a floor sander to punch nails, sand deck coarse and medium then polivac and vacuum ready for you to coat
6. Brush the edges of your deck. Dip your paintbrush into the oil and start by carefully applying it to the edges of the deck.
7. Apply oil to the rest of the deck. Apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically requires you to work along the full length of each board without stopping in the middle so you can avoid patchy areas. Be prompt in your application, as the oil seeps into the timber almost instantly. Once the deck is coated, allow it to dry, which may take two hours or longer depending on the temperature and the specific oil used.
8. Apply a second coat. For optimal durability and UV protection, apply a minimum of two coats. After the first coat has dried, repeat the application process, but use less oil this time, as the wood will absorb less and may pool, becoming sticky. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions in terms of applications and drying time.

Enjoy! Once your deck is fully dried, replace the furniture and potted greenery, and enjoy your refreshed outdoor space!

References

1. Austim (2025) Choosing The Best Timber Decking Oil: Independent Review, Austim article, accessed 27 January 2025.
2. Brisbanes Finest Floors (2021) The Best Decking Oils For Spotted Gum, Brisbanes Finest Floors article, accessed 27 January 2025.
3. Bunnings (2025) How to oil your deck, Bunnings article, accessed 27 January 2025