How To: Protect Your Timber Projects for Winter
As temperatures drop and the weather turns, now’s the time to make sure your timber projects are ready for winter. Whether it’s fencing, decking, cladding or outdoor furniture, a few simple steps can make all the difference in protecting your materials from moisture, rot and frost damage.
At Wood Green Timber, we’ve put together some quick, practical advice to help you get it right — and keep your timber looking its best right through to spring.
1. Check for Damage Before the Rain Sets In
Start by giving your fence, decking, or cladding a good look over. Replace any loose boards, cracked panels or split posts before water can get in. Small gaps or splits are often where rot begins — fix them now and you’ll save yourself a big job later.
You’ll need: Treated timber, replacement panels, screws and fixings (all in stock at WGT).
2. Clean and Treat Surfaces
If your timber’s already been exposed through the summer, clean off dirt, algae, or mould before applying any treatment. Use a mild cleaner or decking wash, let it dry completely, and then apply a suitable timber preservative or oil.
Top Tip from WGT: For outdoor fencing and decking, use a solvent-based treatment for deeper penetration and longer protection against moisture.
3. Re-Seal Exposed Ends and Cut Edges
Water always finds its way into the most vulnerable points — like end grain and freshly cut edges. Apply end-seal preservative to any new cuts or drill holes to stop moisture soaking in and freezing later on.
4. Lift and Cover Stored Timber
If you’ve got leftover materials, don’t leave them sitting on the ground. Stack them on bearers or pallets and cover with a breathable sheet to keep the rain off while allowing airflow.
You’ll need: Tarpaulin, bearers, straps — all available in store.
5. Keep Gutters, Posts and Bases Clear
For structures like pergolas, sheds, or garden rooms, make sure water can drain freely. Clear out leaves and debris from gutters, and keep soil or mulch away from the base of posts — constant contact with damp ground is the fastest route to decay.
Featured Products at WGT
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Pressure-treated fence panels & posts
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Decking boards & treatment oils
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End-seal preservatives & timber protector
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Bearers & sheet materials
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Tarpaulins and fixings
Final Word
A bit of prep now means your timber will stay solid and protected all winter long. Whether you’re replacing, treating, or covering, you’ll find everything you need at Wood Green Timber.
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