Balau Deck Maintenance

Balau Deck Maintenance

To Oil or Not to Oil, That is the Question

Balau decks are known for their durability and natural beauty, making them a popular choice for outdoor spaces. However, the question of whether to oil a Balau deck or not often arises among homeowners seeking to preserve its appearance and longevity. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of oiling a Balau deck and compare it to the alternative of leaving it untreated.

The Benefits of Oiling a Balau Deck

Enhanced Aesthetics

Balau is a Malaysian hardwood timber known for its resistance. This visually appealing wood, with its distinct grain pattern, has a rich and warm light brown colour. Oiling a Balau deck enhances its natural colour, bringing out rich tones and highlighting the beautiful grain patterns. This not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to a more polished and well-maintained look for your outdoor space.

Protection Against UV Damage

Balau wood is often exposed to the elements, including harsh sunlight. Even though it is naturally resistant to extreme weather and damage, oiling provides an extra protective barrier, preventing UV rays from causing fading or discolouration. This UV resistance ensures that your deck retains its original beauty for a more extended period.

Moisture Repellent

Balau wood is naturally resistant to decay, but oiling takes it a step further by creating a moisture-repellent surface. This helps to prevent water absorption, minimising the risk of warping, cracking, or rotting over time.

Extended Lifespan

Regularly oiling your Balau deck acts as a proactive measure against wear and tear. Balau is a dense wood, with a high oil content, which is great for outdoor use, however, taking time to oil the wood nourishes the wood, reducing the likelihood of splinters and extending the overall lifespan of your deck.

Considerations for Not Oiling a Balau Deck

Natural Weathering

Some homeowners prefer the natural weathered look that Balau develops over time without oiling. This can give the deck a rustic charm, and for those who appreciate the weathered aesthetic, leaving it untreated might be a suitable choice. After a prolonged time, Balau wood gets a silvery light-grey tone to it. The sun bleaches the wood. If this suits your aesthetic, oiling the wood is not necessary.

Low Maintenance

Not oiling a Balau deck means less maintenance. If you’re looking for a more hands-off approach to deck care, allowing the wood to weather naturally might align better with your lifestyle.

Cost Considerations

Oiling a Balau deck involves an additional cost for the oil and the time spent on application. If budget constraints are a concern, leaving the deck untreated could be a more economical option.

In the debate between oiling and not oiling a Balau deck, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It ultimately depends on your preferences, maintenance routine, and aesthetic goals. If you value a deck with enhanced colour, protection against the elements, and an extended lifespan, regular oiling is the way to go. On the other hand, if you appreciate the natural weathered look and prefer a lower maintenance approach, leaving your Balau deck untreated might be the best choice.

 

Maintaining a balau deck with oiling.

 

Whichever option you choose, understanding the pros and cons will help you make an informed decision and ensure your Balau deck remains a beautiful and functional outdoor space for years to come.

For more information on Balau wood maintenance, reach out to OnlineBuilding.co.za at 021 712 1550 or drop us an email at anton@onlinebuilding.co.za. Elevate your outdoor experience with the timeless allure of Balau wood.