Treated Pine Deck

[aross]

What stain or oil have people used to get a nice look finish that doesn't just look like browm muck? I've previously stained with merbue but result just looked like weak brown paint.... maybe I shouldn't be staining but just using a pigmented oil????
Any suggestions from what has worked would be appreciated.
Regards,
Adrian

[orraloon]

Treated pine is a bit of a problem to get looking good. It has a green tinge to start with so that sort of dictates the look. Being treated it needs no cover at all and in time will take on a weathered look if that suits you'r taste. I made a garden seat that had treated pine frame and merbau slats. I gave at a bit of wattle deck oil and the pine looks not too bad. It is still pine and looks like pine. I have never used stain on anything for outside as I prefer the simple approach. Most deck oils have a bit of pigment in them so some darkening will happen. Best to try a few experments on offcuts first.

[aross]

Thanks,
I've had a change of direction after speaking to a few people who have lived here all their lives (Queensland)....basically have nothing to do with treated pine if it's going to be any where near my house...white ants will still get in to the timber after it has been exposed to the elements for a while. I've been told posts = nothing but galvanised metal, frame = nothing but the timber dipped in linseed, for the deck = nothing but hardwood (Merbu etc). The cost just went up at least double! I've priced Merbu... geeez it's actually cheaper to buy it in Sydney and ship it to Brisbane than to buy it locally?? .... everything is over priced in QLD it seems.
Life was much simpler in the cooler climates...but cold!
Regards,
Adrian

[orraloon]

The merbau may cost a but more but it will look a lot better. As for the ants getting through a treated frame I am keeping my fingers crossed that does not happen. I have had them in the house before. I had to replace all the stud frame and gyproc in the kitchen.
Regards
John

[Paul Willcocks]

another way to get rid of the brown muck look is to wipe-off the excess stain with a cloth, within minutes of applying it.. the finish looks a lot better with more grain showing and it does not necessarily loose the sealing effect of the stain in my experience
Cheers
Paul FnQ.