Before & After
Project Specs
| City | Tsawwassen, BC |
| Neighbourhood | Tsawwassen |
| Service Type | Deck & Fence Refinishing |
| Duration | 2 days |
| Materials Used | Cabot Australian Timber Oil (natural), Defy Deck Brightener, pressure washer, 60-grit belt sander for rough boards |
Scope of Work
Tsawwassen's coastal microclimate is hard on outdoor wood. The combination of rain, marine air, UV exposure, and freeze-thaw cycles turns untreated or under-maintained decks grey, cracked, and rough within a few seasons. This Tsawwassen pressure-treated deck had been neglected for several years — the wood was severely weathered, grey throughout, with some surface checking on the most exposed boards.
The goal was to restore and protect — not replace. The wood was structurally sound despite the surface weathering, and the right process would bring it back completely. We completed:
- Thorough pressure wash at 1,500 PSI to remove all dirt, algae, and surface debris
- Application of Defy Deck Brightener — a mildly acidic cleaner that neutralizes the grey tannins and opens the wood grain for better product penetration
- Allow brightener dwell time and rinse thoroughly
- Allow full dry time (minimum 48 hours from last water contact before oiling)
- Light hand-sanding on rough or checked boards to smooth any splinter hazards
- Application of two coats Cabot Australian Timber Oil by brush and pad applicator
- Working the oil into the wood grain rather than coating the surface
- Deck steps and railing posts treated with same product
Cabot Australian Timber Oil is our preferred product for decks in coastal BC. Unlike film-forming stains or paints that sit on the surface and eventually peel, the oil penetrates deeply into the wood fibres. It nourishes the wood, enhances the natural grain, and provides UV protection and moisture resistance from within. When it eventually needs refreshing, there's no peeling to deal with — just a light clean and re-coat.
Our Process
Pressure Wash
Full deck pressure washed at 1,500 PSI — enough to remove biological growth, dirt, and loose fibres without damaging the wood grain. We angle the nozzle with the grain, never across it, to avoid raising or tearing wood fibres.
Deck Brightener Application
Defy Deck Brightener applied to the damp surface with a garden sprayer and worked in with a scrub brush on rougher areas. The brightener's mild acid chemistry neutralizes the grey oxidation compounds (tannins) and opens the wood pores — critical for maximum oil absorption.
Rinse & Full Dry Time
Brightener rinsed thoroughly, then the deck allowed to dry completely — minimum 48 hours in dry weather before any oil application. Applying oil to damp wood prevents proper penetration and causes adhesion issues.
Light Sanding on Problem Boards
Any boards with significant surface checking or splinter hazards hand-sanded along the grain with 60-grit. Goal is to smooth the surface, not remove wood — light passes only. Sanding dust blown clear with compressed air.
First Coat Cabot Australian Timber Oil
First coat worked into the wood by brush in the direction of the grain, applied liberally. Any excess pooling in knots or checked areas worked out with the brush to prevent sticky spots. Allow manufacturer-specified re-coat time.
Second Coat & Final Inspection
Second coat applied in the same manner — the wood will absorb significantly less on the second coat as the pores are already filled. Result is an even, rich finish with excellent moisture protection. Final walk-through to ensure no missed areas or pooling spots.
"They're great and efficient. Definitely recommend!"
