Posted 15 January 2024

Normal timber used as decking board - pros and cons

Looking to overlay my current (traditional) decking with an extra layer of (normal) timber and then apply generous amount of stain to it to give it a bit more gloss finish and make it waterproof. My decking is covered and only get copious amount of water during storms. Keen to hear if anyone did something similar or should I give up on that idea? TIA

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16th Jan
It's a bad idea - as adding a second layer will stop the wood from breathing - you don't want to make it "water roof" as wood will expand and contract. If water gets trapped between the layers it will speed up the rotting process. Decking is pressure treated and grooved which will prevent slipping.
Also it doesn;t have to rain for the wood to get wet - condensation can form underneath and if has no way to evaporate it can also speed up the rotting process.
16th Jan
Gloss finish on smooth boards. What could possibly go wrong.....
16th Jan
Even proper grooved decking can be a slip hazard in winter, hate to think what normal planks of wood would be like?
16th Jan
I'm trying to figure out why the OP wants to do this.

Anyone have any ideas?
16th Jan
Op has had one too many!?
16th Jan
It's a terrible idea (and the poster above has outlined perfectly why) - repair or replace with boards designed for the job
16th Jan
This country isn't designed for decking, rip it up and replace with your choice of slate or stone etc. It will still go green and slimy depending on location but at least it won't rot away.