Why does the surface of the decking become “fuzzy”?

This is not a defect but completely natural; it is called surface fiber shedding.

When freshly sawn timber is exposed to outdoor conditions, it will usually begin to turn gray within one to two years. This is because the sun’s UV rays gradually break down the lignin in the wood’s surface layer. A natural phenomenon that can affect all types of wood is so-called surface fiber shedding, or fiber fuzz, which is part of the wood’s natural aging process.

Surface fiber shedding occurs when the outermost layer of lignin, which acts as a binder between the wood fibers, is broken down by the sun’s rays. Lignin holds the fibers together, but when it is damaged by UV radiation, especially in areas with strong sunlight, surface fiber shedding can occur. If the wood also remains damp for an extended period, the surface fibers may come loose and become visible, often during the spring months. These loose fibers give the wood a fuzzy appearance, but the wood itself underneath remains intact.

Surface fiber shedding does not affect the timber’s durability or protection against rot and decreases over time. If surface fiber shedding occurs on untreated decking or exterior cladding, you can easily remove it with a soft brush. Brush it while dry, and preferably scrub it with soap once afterward.

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Questions and answers

1. Why has my decking suddenly become fuzzy?
Answer: It is a natural process called surface fiber shedding

2. Did the soap make my decking fuzzy?
Answer: No

3. Can surface fiber shedding be avoided?
Answer: It is completely natural and difficult to avoid if you want genuine wood.

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