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Mike Lyle[_1_] · 23-09-2006, 01:42 PM posted to uk.rec.gardening

wrote:
La Puce wrote:

I think it's too late to regain the colour.

I've checked some photos I took when the decking was originally laid.
The change in colour I've observed is definitely back to the original
colour, not just darkening of the grey. If the temporary change back
to the original colour is something to do with the wood fibres
temporarily retaining the water, then maybe the answer lies in finding
a treatment which will enhance the water-retaining properties of the
fibres.

I don't think encouraging water to stand would be a good idea, even if
it were possible. The colour change is, apart from unpreventable
natural fading and weathering, I think much the same phenomenon as you
see with wet pebbles: I've always assumed that when the surface is
rough, light is reflected in all directions, but a layer of water
smooths it out and allows a more directional reflection so that the
colours stand out. But I think weathered wood looks much better
outdoors than spanking new.

--
Mike.