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Paint your decking & garden timber.
Decking oil, stain or fence paint — pressure-washed first, then 2 coats of protective finish.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Top tips
Hiring a decorator, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Painting too soon after rain
Wet wood rejects treatment. Allow 24–48 hours after pressure washing.
Anti-slip coatings worn out
Decking anti-slip coatings wear off in 12–24 months on high-traffic areas. Reapply annually.
Stain peeling
Cheap stain over previously oiled wood doesn't adhere. Strip old oil first, or use compatible re-coat product.
Knots leaking sap
New softwood knots leak through paint. Knot-block primer first.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Decking oil per litreCuprinol Anti-Slip
£15–£30
Wood stain per litreRonseal Garden Paint, Cuprinol
£10–£30
Exterior wood paint per litreRonseal Garden Paint, Bedec MSP
£15–£40
Treat 20m² deckingMaterial + DIY application
£80–£200
Treat 6m fence panelsPer side
£60–£180
Spray application per m²Plus material
£3–£8/m²
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Decking, sheds, fence panels and garden furniture all need treatment to survive UK weather. Expect to pay £4–£25 per m² for UK garden wood treatment, depending on product type and application. DIY is the norm for most homeowners.
What Does the Work Involve?
Wood is cleaned with stiff brush and pressure-washed (light pressure only). Allowed to dry 24–48 hours. Existing failed coatings stripped or sanded. Knots stabilised on new wood with knot-block primer. Two coats of chosen treatment applied — oil, stain, or paint. Brush is the workhorse; spray for fence panels and large decks (much faster). Periodic re-application every 1–3 years.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decking oil per litre | 15 | 30 | Cuprinol Anti-Slip |
| Wood stain per litre | 10 | 30 | Ronseal Garden Paint, Cuprinol |
| Exterior wood paint per litre | 15 | 40 | Ronseal Garden Paint, Bedec MSP |
| Treat 20m² decking | 80 | 200 | Material + DIY application |
| Treat 6m fence panels | 60 | 180 | Per side |
| Spray application per m² | 3 | 8 | Plus material |
| Brush application per m² | 2 | 6 | Plus material |
How Long Does It Take?
20m² deck: half a day brush, 2 hours spray. 6m of fence: 2–3 hours brush. Drying between coats: 4–8 hours.
DIY or Professional?
Most homeowners DIY this. The product range is consumer-friendly. Professional speeds the job up (spray equipment) but doesn't add quality if DIY follows the instructions.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
Garden contractor or decorator. Ronseal, Cuprinol, and Bedec are the established UK brands. Confirm the product is matched to the wood — pressure-treated softwood needs different treatment to hardwood like ipe.
UK Regulations
No specific Building Regs. EU/UK chemical regulations on certain wood preservatives — modern consumer products are compliant.
Common Problems
- Painting too soon after rain: Wet wood rejects treatment. Allow 24–48 hours after pressure washing.
- Anti-slip coatings worn out: Decking anti-slip coatings wear off in 12–24 months on high-traffic areas. Reapply annually.
- Stain peeling: Cheap stain over previously oiled wood doesn't adhere. Strip old oil first, or use compatible re-coat product.
- Knots leaking sap: New softwood knots leak through paint. Knot-block primer first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stain or paint for decking?
Stain: penetrates wood, shows grain, needs annual top-up. Paint: covers wood, lasts longer, can flake if not properly applied. Stain is the more common choice for UK decking.
How long does decking oil last?
6–18 months on high-traffic areas; 18–36 months on lightly used areas. Annual re-coat is the standard recommendation.
Best fence paint?
Ronseal Garden Paint, Cuprinol Garden Shades, Sadolin Superdec — all UK leaders. Hardwood needs specialist (Osmo, Owatrol).
Can I spray fence panels?
Yes — fast and even coverage. Mask plants and lawn carefully. Plant-friendly spray paints exist (Cuprinol Spray and Brush).
How often should I re-treat decking?
Every 1–2 years for most domestic decking. Spray on a light maintenance coat to keep the deck looking fresh and protected.
Best deck treatment 2026?
Cuprinol Anti-Slip Decking Oil (anti-slip and natural finish), Ronseal Ultimate Protection Decking Stain (longest lasting), Owatrol Deks Olje (premium hardwood).
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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