Maintenance

Maintaining Douglas timber: keep your wood looking great

Practical tips to keep Douglas timber in top condition - from oiling to cleaning and weather protection.

By Andre Hassler

5 min leestijd

Order directly from stock in Meppel

Douglas is one of the most popular timber species in the Netherlands for fences, decking, canopies and cladding. With the right care it stays functional and attractive for years - whether you prefer natural greying or want to keep the original colour.

Why maintain Douglas?

Untreated Douglas turns silver-grey through UV and rain. That is purely cosmetic. To keep the warm tone, annual maintenance is recommended. Cleaning also prevents moss and algae that hold moisture.

Cleaning

Clean at least once a year with lukewarm water and mild soap. Use a soft brush - avoid high-pressure washers up close. Browse our Douglas range for replacement boards.

Oiling

UV-resistant deck oil slows greying. Apply thin coats in dry weather above 15 °C. Impregnated Douglas needs less maintenance but still benefits from cleaning.

FAQ

Must I oil every year?

Only if you want to keep the red-brown colour. For natural greying, cleaning is enough.

Can I paint Douglas?

Yes, with primer and exterior paint. Oil keeps the grain visible.

When replace boards?

When split at fixings, soft spots or rot at post bases. Contact us for advice.