12 best decking oils

Decking oils are essential products used in outdoor home improvement projects to protect and enhance the appearance of wooden decks, patios, and other exterior wood surfaces. They fall under the category of stains, finishes, and sealers and play a crucial role in preserving the longevity of wood while adding aesthetic value to outdoor spaces. Here are some key points about decking oils:

  1. Protection: Decking oils are primarily used to protect wooden surfaces from various environmental factors, including UV rays, rain, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. They form a protective barrier that prevents these elements from causing damage such as fading, cracking, or rotting.

  2. Enhanced Appearance: One of the main reasons people use decking oils is to enhance the natural beauty of the wood. They can deepen the color of the wood and highlight its grain patterns, giving your deck a more attractive and appealing look.

  3. Water Repellency: Decking oils typically provide water repellency, which helps prevent water from soaking into the wood. This is particularly important in wet and humid climates, as it reduces the risk of rot and decay.

  4. UV Protection: Many decking oils contain UV inhibitors that shield the wood from the harmful effects of sunlight. This UV protection helps prevent the wood from turning gray or discolored due to sun exposure.

  5. Easy Application: Decking oils are relatively easy to apply, often with a brush or roller. They penetrate into the wood fibers, and excess oil can be wiped away, leaving a smooth and even finish.

  6. Maintenance: To maintain the protective qualities and appearance, decking oils may need to be reapplied periodically, usually every one to two years, depending on the product and environmental conditions.

  7. Types of Wood: Decking oils are suitable for a variety of wood types commonly used in decking, including cedar, redwood, pine, and hardwoods like teak and mahogany. Different oils may be recommended for specific wood types.

  8. Color Variations: Decking oils come in various shades and finishes, allowing homeowners to choose the one that best complements their outdoor aesthetic. Transparent, semi-transparent, and opaque options are available.

  9. Environmental Impact: Some decking oils are formulated to be eco-friendly and low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them safer for the environment.

  10. Maintenance Tips: Regular maintenance practices for decked areas include cleaning the surface before reapplying the oil, ensuring proper drying time between coats, and inspecting for signs of wear and tear.

In summary, decking oils are important products in home improvement, as they protect and enhance the appearance of outdoor wooden surfaces. They offer various benefits, including protection against the elements, UV rays, and water damage, while also providing options for color and finish customization to suit your design preferences.Properly maintaining your deck with decking oils can extend its lifespan and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best decking oils on the market
  

Cabot 140.0003400.005 Australian Timber Oil, Quart, Natural

Cabot

Based on 744 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This item is a Cabot Australian Timber Oil Penetrating Oil Formula Natural 1 Qt. Purpose of use for Painting Supplies, household-wood-stains. This product is manufactured in United States.

  • This item is a Cabot Australian Timber Oil Penetrating Oil Formula Natural 1 Qt
  • Purpose of use for Painting Supplies, household-wood-stains
  • This product is manufactured in United States

User questions & answers

Question: i want to buy this but need to know if this is the Honey teak 1 gallon Australian Timber Oil? Thanks
Answer: We covered over a stained deck after we cleaned it. Don’t think it will cover over paint you should strip the paint clean and use the stain. Great product and is holding up well in the Houston weather...
Question: can you confirm color is 'Mahogany Flame' and size is '1 quart' ? thanks
Answer: very close to matching color
Question: I just finished applying it to a new deck and it appears really dirty where people walk. What do I do
Answer: Just saw your note. Have not used mine yet. Looks to be very good and will cover a 12 x 10 deck.
Question: There are two versions of this product, one is water clean up, the other is oil based and paint thinner is used for brush clean-up. Which version
Answer: You do not have too, I power washed mine 2 months ago twice, when I applied the Cabot. I used the blower and made sure it has no debris sticking to it. It looks great afterwards.

Product features

Australian Timber Oil

Cabot Australian Timber Oil for Decks, Siding, Railings and Outdoor Furniture is a unique blend of oils originally formulated to protect dense tallowwood, cambara and merbau from the extreme Australian exposures. Australian Timber Oil penetrates deep into the dense, resin-rich woods to accentuate natural wood depth and patina. Containing a precise blend of superb-grade linseed oil for maximum penetration, long-oil alkyds for durability and pure South American tung oil for color depth and water repellency, Australian Timber Oil delivers three-way oil protection and a beautiful hardwood stain.

In addition, complex translucent iron oxide pigments are added to ensure a lasting U.V.-absorbing surface rich with color and dimension. The result after years of development is an advanced-technology treatment of unrivaled performance designed to protect your exotic wood surfaces like never before.

Coverage

Spread rates will vary depending on the porosity of the surface. On smooth surfaces, 3400 series covers approximately 400-600 square feet per gallon, 19400 series covers approximately 250-350 square feet per gallon.

Mammoth Sustainably Sourced Solid Acacia Wood Oiled Finish Secure Interlocking Deck Tiles, Water Resistant Outdoor Patio Pavers or Composite Deck Flooring, Pack of 11 (11 SQFT) (Stripe)

Based on 186 reviews Check latest price
  • ACACIA WOOD FOR OUTDOOR FLOORING: Made from 100% FSC Certified Sustainably Sourced Natural and Oiled Acacia Wood Deck Tile
  • HARD SURFACE INTERLOCKING DECK TILES: Each 12" x 12"x .75" Floor Tile Allows for Tools Free Assembly While Retaining Durable Connectivity with its Thick Grid Lock Plastic Gauge Clips that Connects to One Another; Suitable for HARD SURFACES only!
  • STAINED AND SEALED: The Wood Decks are Stained and Sealed at the Factory; New Applications of Stain and Sealers Will Be Required Every 6-12 Months Depending on Environment (Check our Teak Deck Tiles for Minimal Maintenance, or PVC Imitation Wood Deck Tiles for No Maintenance)
  • WATER RESISTANT & ANTI-SLIP: Sealers are Factory Applied so the Solid Wood Decking Tiles Are Water Resistant, and The Wood Grain Itself has Anti-Slip Properties
  • INCLUDED PATTERN: 11 Pieces Of Stripe Pattern 12" x 12" Acacia Deck Wood Tile; .75 Inch Thick

User questions & answers

Question: Can I use these in a regular shower
Answer:
Question: Can these be placed on a rubber roof patio without damaging the rubber
Answer:
Question: Are they too hot to walk on in summer direct sun
Answer:
Question: We have a slightly uneven surface to work with and I'm curious if anyone has ever installed these on dirt
Answer:

DeckWise Ipe Oil Hardwood Deck Semi-Transparent 250 VOC Natural Finish (1-Gallon)

DeckWise

Based on 283 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Important Shipping Information: Ground Shipping ONLY. Please Note: Due to imposed shipping restrictions Ipe Oil can only be shipped to the contiguous United States. Thanks for your understanding. Label designs may vary due to updated product marketing. Description: 4 Gallons of Ipe Oil - This Hardwood Deck Finish is an oil-based natural wood finish specifically designed for use on exterior hardwood decks. Ipe Oil Hardwood Deck Finish provides excellent penetration of even the densest hardwoods with minimal raising of the grain. It protects and conditions the wood while maintaining a completely natural appearance. Ipe Oil Hardwood Deck Finish may be used on exterior hardwood to enhance the wood’s natural beauty. For exceptional results on Ipe, Tigerwood, Cumaru and other exotic hardwoods, Ipe Oil is the best solution. Each Gallon is shipped separately. "NOT AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN CALIFORNIA SCAQMD JURISDICTION; LA-EASTERN, LA-WESTERN, ORANGE, RIVERSIDE, AND SAN BERNARDINO COUNTIES."

  • RESTRICTED: Ground Shipping ONLY: Can NOT be shipped to California areas including but not limited to LA SCAQMD
  • Perfect for all exterior hardwood and thermal wood surfaces including decking, fences and railings
  • Trans oxide pigments offer a slight brown tint for UV defense and enhances the natural wood beauty
  • Low 250 VOC oil-based formula minimizes odors penetrating deep to protect from mold and mildew
  • Easy one coat application dries without a surface film that will NOT crack, bubble, or peel

User questions & answers

Question: Can the ipe oil be used on eucalyptus furniture? if so, can it be applied over stain
Answer: Eucalyptus wood works just fine with this oil. Cannot be used on wood previously varnished or Polyeurethaned. Should work absorbing into wood with weathered oil base stain-- we'd recommend a test area be done first to confirm uniformity.
Question: What's the difference between the 100 and 250 VOC formula
Answer: VOC is for "volatile organic compounds", which is a measure of how much solvent/toxin is released into the air as it dries. The maximum allowed in flat/latex is 250 g per liter, and for other paints, the federal cap is 380 g/l. The lower the VOC number, the better for your health. A con of using lower VOC paints is that they may not be as long lasting or of lower quality than higher VOC paints.
Question: Can this be applied over Thompsons Water seal
Answer: I'm not sure what type of wood you have, but I'm going to assume you have Ipe which is dense and doesn't penetrate well to begin with. I would not recommend applying the Ipe oil over Thompsons Water Seal. It's likely to just sit on top of the water seal and not be able to penetrate the wood. If the oil doesn't soak into the wood, it won't dry. When the oil stays wet too long it gets sticky and dust sticks on the surface. You end up with a big mess. To give you an example, we have an area on our deck that is under a large overhang. It doesn't get much sun and therefore doesn't need to be re-oiled as frequently. Our painter power washed this area and let it dry. Then put another coat of the Ipe oil over an existing coat of Ipe oil. It took months for the oil to dry and because of the wind and all that naturally blows around outside, many particles stuck to the oil and it ended up looking dirty and filmy.
Question: How many square foot the gallon cover
Answer: I had an older ipe deck ~ 16 X 46 ft or ~ 740sq ft. maybe a little more porousthan new after stripping older finish. 3 gallons just did it with some areas stillnot fully penetrated. I have a fourth gallon for touch up which seems quite easy.I'm very satisfied with the rich color and grain exposure, very nice and went on easily with a roller and brush touch up. Best ipe finish I've tiried. May use it on someteak on my sail boat.

DEFY Wood Oil for Decks, 1 Gallon, Natural

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price

Product description

DEFY Wood Oil for Decks is a durable oil & water hybrid, semi-transparent wood finish that helps protect against the damaging effects of water, fungi, and UV radiation on all types of wood surfaces. This 250 VOC compliant deck stain provides protection for your wood by blocking out the sun's harmful UV rays, moisture and graying. Applications for Defy Wood Oil for Decks include outdoor decks and railings, fences, gazebos and other wood structures as well as wood siding, shakes and log homes. Defy Wood Oil for Decks can be used on a wide variety of woods including pressure treated lumber, pine, fir, cedar, and redwood.

  • PROTECTION FOR YOUR WOOD - Protects Against UV Damage, Graying & Water Damage
  • OIL & WATER BASED BLEND - Applies Easily Like an Oil Based Stain & Cleans Up With Soap & Water
  • SEMI-TRANSPARENT STAIN & SEALER COMBO - This Wood Stain Not Only Gives Your Deck, Fence, or Siding a Beautiful Semi-Transparent Finish, But It Seals and Protects Your Wood From Damage Caused By Water Penetration
  • PENETRATING OIL SEALER - Easily Penetrates Into Wood Pores Helping it to Bond Better & Last Longer
  • 250 VOC COMPLIANT - Ships to all states except California. California residents can purchase DEFY Extreme 40, which is VOC Compliant in California.

User questions & answers

Question: Can this be used over a semi transparent water based stained deck
Answer: I would say no. The effectivity of the oil is based on its penetration into the wood so if it already has a stain, the oil would not penetrate.
Question: How long does a treatment last? Is it tinted
Answer: Although they make redwood and cedar shades as well as clear, I use the Natural Tone. It gives new wood a light brown color similar as if you garnished it although without the shine. On fences I go 2 - 3 years or more. On horizontal surfaces like decks and porches I put on two coats and it's good for 2+ years. Sometimes I reapply after 2 years to keep it looking fresher.

Osmo - Decking Oil - 1277 Clear - 0.75 Liter

OSMO

Product description

Natural oil based protective finish for exterior wood that does not peel, crack, flake or blister. Microporous, breathable finish allowing the wood to breath and reduces the risk of swelling and shrinkage. Water-repellent, extremely weather and UV resistant. Easy to apply as well as renew, no sanding or primer necessary. When dry, the finish is safe for humans, animals and plants and is suitable for children’s toys.

Penofin Transparent Hardwood Oil-Based Hardwood Stain 1 gal.

PERFORMANCE COATINGS INC. - PENOFIN

Based on 27 reviews Check latest price

Product description

EXOTIC HARDWOOD EXTERIOR FINISH: Penofin's Hardwood Finish can penetrate dense hardwoods that need nourishing and stabilizing. This unique formula penetrates deep into the wood fibers and does not create a surface film. Unlike high-solid stains that simply coat the surface, Penofin’s Hardwood Finish, using sustainably harvested Brazilian Rosewood Oil, is the choice of wood experts who know that wood penetration is key to longevity and beauty. Penofin allows wood to breathe, important in working with exotic hardwoods such as mahogany, teak, Ipe, Brazillian Redwood, and many other species. Only Penofin Penetrating Oil Finish can meet the needs of hardwood in fiber protection, penetration, stabilizing, and nourishing. ~ FEATURES: Used for all fine hardwoods such as: Ipe, Pau Lope, Ironwood, Mahogany & Teak. Transparent natural finish. One-coat application. 99% ultraviolet protection via transoxide pigments. High-grade mildewcide for mold/mildew protection. Coverage: Approx 400 square feet per gallon. ***** RESTRICTED: This product cannot be shipped to the following states: AK AZ CA CT DC DE HI IL IN MA MD ME NH NJ NY OH PA RI VA VT. All other states ship via GROUND transport only.

  • ***** RESTRICTED: This product cannot be shipped to the following states: AK AZ CA CT DC DE HI IL IN MA MD ME NH NJ NY OH PA RI VA VT. All other states ship via GROUND transport only.
  • Transparent natural finish
  • 99% ultraviolet protection via transoxide pigments
  • High-grade mildewcide for mold/mildew protection
  • Used for all fine hardwoods such as: Ipe, Pau Lope, Ironwood, Mahogany & Teak

User questions & answers

Question: How can i get the msds for this product
Answer: https://www.penofin.com/product-support/product-literature
Question: what is the coverage for one gallon
Answer: Based on my experience putting it on ipe (Brazilian ironwood), if it's a first coat on non-oiled wood, I wouldn't plan on a gallon covering more than about 200 sq ft. You need to apply a second coat within 3-4 months to reinforce it, and that may cover more like 300 sq ft, depending on how long between the coats. You might squeeze out more coverage each time if you're judicious applying it. Assuming the deck boards are 5.5", I would recommend using a or 9" staining pad on a handle for first putting it on, then wipe it in with a rag or staining pad. You have to wait 30 minutes before wiping it in, so I would do four boards, skip the next four (so I have a place to stand when coming back to wipe it), do the next four, skip four and so on. Then later I would come back to do the other groups of four boards. Don't roll anything like a grill across the deck for at least two days after having oiled it, so it needs lots of time to fully cure. It can look terrific when you're done.
Question: Would this be appropriate for use on the exterior of an antique southwestern style wood front door
Answer: not sure on door - i used it on ipe decking - not happy with it - turned black - lost all of the beautiful colors of ice wood.
Question: Is it required to sand an ipe deck before applying ipe oil
Answer: No. The only instance where this is required would be when other types of finishes had been applied in the past and may prevent penetration.

OSMO - Anti-Slip Decking Oil - 430 Clear - 0.75 Liter

OSMO

Product description

OSMO - Anti-Slip Decking Oil - 430 Clear - 0.75 Liter can be used on all decking types, including ribbed and grooved, but is especially suitable for flat or smooth decking for a slip-resistant finish.

Cabot 140.0003459.007 Australian Timber Oil Stain, Gallon, Mahogany Flame

Cabot

Based on 117 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Cabot Australian Timber Oil for Decks, Siding, Railings and Outdoor Furniture is a unique blend of oils originally formulated to protect dense tallowwood, cambara and merbau from the extreme Australian exposures. Australian Timber Oil penetrates deep into the dense, resin-rich woods to accentuate natural wood depth and patina. Containing a precise blend of superb-grade linseed oil for maximum penetration, long-oil alkyds for durability and pure South American tung oil for color depth and water repellency, Australian Timber Oil delivers three-way oil protection and a beautiful hardwood stain. In addition, complex translucent iron oxide pigments are added to ensure a lasting U. V. -absorbing surface rich with color and dimension. The result after years of development is an advanced-technology treatment of unrivaled performance designed to protect your exotic wood surfaces like never before.

  • Penetrating, clear, exterior oil ~ Water-repellent and UV-resistant
  • For hardwood decks and outdoor furniture ~ Protects against extreme weather exposure
  • Dries to a flat, translucent-toned finish
  • Oil-based, clean up with mineral spirits. Mahogany Flame - One Gallon

User questions & answers

Question: are ther any states that you still can get real oil stain
Answer: Sorry, unsure, but it is very strong product. Best to contact the mfr.
Question: can it be shipped to UTAH
Answer: Out of everything else I have tried for paint removal, this is absolutely a great product. I can't speak for your application, but I do not know why it would not work.
Question: Is this "mahogany flame", and can you ship to michigan? oil based only - no water cleanup
Answer: Don't know what bed liner you're referring to, but it removes laquered paint from outdoor chairs and table down to the bare frame.
Question: Would like to use this product on several sheds. Can it be sprayed on
Answer: Yes, I have used it on wood, and it worked fine. I would not use it on plastic as it ate the plastic on my door. Instructions are very clear.

Product features

Cabot Heritage

Cabot is recognized as an industry leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of premium quality Wood Care products.

Count on us for:

Easy-to-use wood preparation products

Long-lasting deck stains

Beautiful wood finishes and preservatives for outdoors

Rich wood stains and durable topcoats for indoors

OSMO Decking Oils Natural Exterior Wood Decking Finishes Massaranduba .75L

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Osmo Deck Oil is a satin-matt, clear or transparent exterior wood finish. It will not crack, peel, flake or blister. It is water-repellent, UV*, and weather-resistant. With two coats on raw wood and one coat for renovation with no sanding or stripping between applications, it enhances the grain and natural beauty of decking, creating a protected smooth surface. Osmo Deck Oil is natural oil based and micro-porous, allowing the wood to breathe. Osmo Deck Oil has a uniquely low solvent content which accounts for its exceptionally large coverage rate - 2 to 4 times that of traditional deck treatments when applied using an Osmo brush. Osmo Deck Oil works excellent on both domestic and exotic species.

Osmo Deck Oil is available in 7 natural wood shades to match the most commonly used wood species, as well as clear. Trial application is recommended to ensure best results.

  • 1 liter covers approximately 258 sq/ft with 1 coat
  • Ideal for use on Garden Furniture and wood decking
  • Smoothes the wooden surface and makes it water-repellent and dirt-resistant
  • Available in 0.75 and 2.50 liter cans

OSMO Decking Oils Natural Exterior Wood Decking Finishes Bangkirai Dark .75L

Product description

Osmo Deck Oil is a satin-matt, clear or transparent exterior wood finish. It will not crack, peel, flake or blister. It is water-repellent, UV*, and weather-resistant. With two coats on raw wood and one coat for renovation with no sanding or stripping between applications, it enhances the grain and natural beauty of decking, creating a protected smooth surface. Osmo Deck Oil is natural oil based and micro-porous, allowing the wood to breathe. Osmo Deck Oil has a uniquely low solvent content which accounts for its exceptionally large coverage rate - 2 to 4 times that of traditional deck treatments when applied using an Osmo brush. Osmo Deck Oil works excellent on both domestic and exotic species.

Osmo Deck Oil is available in 7 natural wood shades to match the most commonly used wood species, as well as clear. Trial application is recommended to ensure best results.

  • 1 liter covers approximately 258 sq/ft with 1 coat
  • Ideal for use on Garden Furniture and wood decking
  • Smoothes the wooden surface and makes it water-repellent and dirt-resistant
  • Available in 0.75 and 2.50 liter cans

Osmo - Decking Oil - 1277 Clear - 2.5 Liter

OSMO

Product description

Osmo Decking Oil 1277 Clear 2.5 liter is a natural oil based protective finish for exterior wood that does not peel, crack, flake or blister. Microporous, breathable finish allowing the wood to breath and reduces the risk of swelling and shrinkage. Water-repellent, extremely weather and UV resistant. Easy to apply as well as renew, no sanding or primer necessary. When dry, the finish is safe for humans, animals and plants and is suitable for children’s toys.

Cabot 19459-07 Samuel INC Timber Oil, Gallon, Mahogany Flame

Cabot

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Australian timber oil, gallon, mahogany flame, wood finish, ready mix, 250 VOC Compliant in all States, all the benefits of traditional oil, deep penetration, color clarity, plus the benefits of water, low odor & soap & water clean up, use on decks, siding & outdoor furniture.

  • 3-way oil protection for superior penetration
  • Ideal for decks, siding, railings, and outdoor furniture
  • Available in 5 wood toned colors
  • Not Intended for interior surfaces
  • Water Reducible Formula

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use this product on cement
Answer: No
Question: Can it be used on pressure treated deck boards that were previously coated? I have scraped 98% of the coating, which was bubbling and peeling, away
Answer: I've treated previously coated redwood twice with this product. I didn't do it myself... had it done. Its easy, very easy, to use too much. Has lasted well.

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