01. Punch & Secure
Nails are typically punched about 3 mm below the timber surface and loose boards are screwed down so the sanding machines can cut flat. Split or rotted boards are replaced at this stage.
02. Coarse-to-Fine Sand
A coarse grit (often 36 or 40) strips weathered grey wood and peeling stain, followed by a finer grit (often 80) for a smooth, barefoot-friendly surface. Edges and stairs are done with smaller machines.
03. Clean & Dry
Fine dust is vacuumed from between the boards, the timber is cleaned, and the moisture content is checked with a meter before any coating goes on.
04. Multi-Coat Sealing
Typically three coats of trade decking oil, applied as the maker recommends, help keep moisture out and bring back the timber’s natural colour.
Every deck is different
Not every deck needs all four stages. A deck that has simply weathered may only need cleaning and a maintenance coat, while a peeling acrylic finish may need chemical stripping first. Your specialist will explain what your deck needs when they quote.
Photos on this page show typical techniques, not specific jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a coastal deck be re-oiled?+
Exposed north- or west-facing decks near the ocean often benefit from a wash and maintenance coat every 12 to 18 months, depending on exposure and the oil maker’s guidance. A maintenance coat before the oil wears bare can help avoid another full sand for some years.
How long does a deck restoration take?+
It depends on the size of the deck, the old coating and the weather, as oil needs dry conditions between coats. Your specialist will give you a timeframe with the quote.
How much does deck sanding and oiling cost?+
As a guide, full mechanical sanding back to bare timber plus 3 coats of trade decking oil typically ranges from $45 to $75 per square metre, depending on the existing coating (acrylic paint and stain take longer to strip than oil), stairs and handrails. Your specialist will give you a firm price after seeing the deck.
How Shellharbour Deck Care works
Shellharbour Deck Care is a lead-matching service connecting Illawarra and South Coast homeowners with independent timber deck restoration specialists. We don’t do the work ourselves. The specialist you’re matched with quotes, carries out and is responsible for the job, so ask them about insurance, the products they use and any warranty before you go ahead.