How to apply exterior wood oil

How to apply exterior wood oil

A step-by-step guide to oiling decks, siding, sheds and outdoor furniture with LIVOS natural oils. Weather conditions, preparation, drying time and maintenance.

Before you start

Two coats of oil give the full durability and water-repellent protection of LIVOS exterior oils. Allow 18 hours between the first and second coat.

LIVOS exterior oils are suitable for decks, houses, sheds and outdoor furniture.

Apply only to wood with a moisture content of 18% or less.

Ideal conditions

  • Above 10 °C
  • Dry weather
  • In the shade or on a cloudy day
  • No direct sunlight
  • Wood moisture 18% or less
  • Surfaces covered with a tarp the evening before, to protect from dew

  1. First coat

    Cure 18 hours

    1. Clean the surface thoroughly. Remove all dust and residue. The wood must be clean and dry.
    2. Sand progressively, finishing with 100 grit. On large surfaces, replace worn sandpaper as you go.
    3. Dust the surface.
    4. Test the colour on a small, less visible area of freshly sanded wood.
    5. Mix the product well.
    6. Apply the oil with a brush until the wood is saturated.
    7. Wipe off the excess after 5 to 10 minutes.
    8. Let cure 18 hours.

    Mould or fungus on the wood? Clean the affected areas with GLOUROS 1806, an oil-compatible cleaner, before sanding.

    First coat

  2. Second coat

    Let dry completely

    1. Apply a thin second coat of oil.
    2. Smooth out and wipe off any build-up after 5 to 10 minutes.
    3. Let dry completely.
    Second coat

Keep it protected

A simple maintenance schedule keeps your exterior wood looking good for years. No sanding between touch-ups.

Every spring

Clean all oiled exterior surfaces with GLOUROS 1806, our oil-compatible cleaner.

Every two years

Clean your deck thoroughly and apply a fresh coat of oil. No sanding needed.

Shop Alis deck oil

Every five years

Clean vertical siding and wood panelling thoroughly, then touch up. No sanding needed.

Common questions

What is the best temperature to oil a deck?

Apply when it is above 10 °C, in dry weather. Avoid direct sunlight: work in the shade or on a cloudy day.

How long should exterior oil dry between coats?

Allow 18 hours between the first and second coat. Let the second coat dry completely before using the surface.

How dry does the wood need to be?

The wood should have a moisture content of 18% or less. A moisture meter gives you a quick reading. Cover the surface with a tarp the evening before to protect it from dew.

Do I need to sand my deck before oiling?

For the first application, yes. Sand progressively and finish with 100 grit. For maintenance coats, a thorough cleaning is enough. No sanding needed.

How often should I re-oil my deck?

Clean your deck every spring and re-oil it every two years. Vertical siding and panelling need attention about every five years.