A well-maintained wooden cubby house can last for generations, providing endless hours of imaginative play for your children and even their children someday. However, timber structures require regular care to withstand Australia's demanding climate. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your wooden cubby in peak condition year after year.
Understanding Your Timber
Before diving into maintenance procedures, it's helpful to understand what type of timber your cubby house is made from, as different woods have different care requirements. Most Australian cubby houses are constructed from one of the following:
Treated Pine: The most common material, treated pine is affordable and offers good durability when properly maintained. It's typically treated to H3 level (suitable for outdoor above-ground use) or H4 level (suitable for in-ground or high-moisture applications). The treatment protects against termites and fungal decay but doesn't prevent weathering.
Cedar: A premium choice, cedar contains natural oils that provide some resistance to rot and insects. It weathers to an attractive silver-grey if left untreated, but most owners prefer to maintain its warm colour with regular oiling.
Hardwoods: Some high-end cubbies use Australian hardwoods like spotted gum or merbau. These are naturally durable but benefit greatly from regular oiling to prevent surface checking and maintain appearance.
⚠️ Important Note on Timber Treatment
If your cubby house was purchased before 2006, be aware that older timber treatments may have contained CCA (Copper Chrome Arsenate). While safe when intact, avoid sanding CCA-treated timber and always wear gloves when handling weathered surfaces. Modern treatments use safer alternatives like ACQ or copper azole.
Seasonal Maintenance Schedule
The key to effective maintenance is consistency. Rather than letting problems accumulate, a seasonal approach allows you to catch issues early and address them before they become serious. Here's what to focus on each season:
Spring Maintenance (September - November)
Spring is the ideal time for your most thorough annual inspection and the best season for any major maintenance work. The moderate temperatures allow for optimal drying of protective coatings.
Deep Clean: Start by giving your cubby a thorough wash. Use a garden hose to remove loose dirt and debris, then apply a solution of warm water and mild detergent (avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the timber or harm plants). A soft bristle brush works well for scrubbing away built-up grime. For stubborn mould or mildew stains, a specialised deck cleaner from your local hardware store is safe and effective.
Inspection: Once the cubby is clean and dry, conduct a detailed structural inspection. Look for signs of rot, particularly at ground level and where horizontal surfaces meet vertical ones. Check all joints, brackets, and fasteners. Examine the roof for any damaged or displaced shingles or sheets.
Timber Treatment: If your cubby requires re-staining or re-oiling, spring is the perfect time. Ensure the timber is completely dry before application. Sand any rough or splintered areas first, working with the grain using 120-grit sandpaper. Apply your chosen product according to manufacturer instructions, typically requiring dry conditions and temperatures between 10-30°C.
Summer Maintenance (December - February)
Australian summers are harsh on timber structures. UV radiation breaks down lignin (the natural glue holding wood fibres together), while extreme heat can cause warping and cracking.
Regular Cleaning: Hose down the cubby every few weeks to remove dust and debris. This prevents build-up that can trap moisture and encourage rot.
Shade Assessment: If your cubby is in full sun, consider whether additional shade might extend its life. A shade sail, nearby tree, or even a temporary beach umbrella during peak UV hours can significantly reduce weathering.
Hardware Check: Heat causes metal to expand, which can loosen fasteners. Do a quick check of all visible screws and bolts, tightening any that have worked loose.
✓ Summer Quick Check List
- Hose down fortnightly to remove dust
- Check for warping or cracking
- Tighten any loose hardware
- Ensure roof drainage is clear
- Look for signs of insect activity
- Check that doors and shutters operate freely
Autumn Maintenance (March - May)
Autumn is your opportunity to prepare the cubby for the wetter months ahead and address any damage from summer.
Gutter and Drainage: If your cubby has guttering, clear out any accumulated leaves and debris. Check that water drains away from the structure rather than pooling around the base.
Touch-Up Treatment: If you notice areas where the protective coating has worn away (often on horizontal surfaces that receive the most sun), autumn is a good time for touch-up applications before winter rain arrives.
Pest Inspection: As the weather cools, insects and spiders look for shelter. Check for signs of wasps nesting, spider webs, or evidence of borers (small holes with fine sawdust nearby).
Winter Maintenance (June - August)
Winter maintenance is largely about monitoring rather than active work, as wet conditions aren't suitable for most timber treatments.
Moisture Monitoring: After heavy rain, check that water isn't pooling on horizontal surfaces or sitting in joints. Good drainage is essential to prevent rot.
Mould Watch: Cold, damp conditions encourage mould growth. If you spot mould starting, address it promptly with a mould remover suitable for outdoor timber. Don't leave it until spring, as mould can penetrate deep into the wood grain.
Dealing with Common Problems
Splinters and Rough Patches
Weathering causes timber fibres to lift, creating splinters that pose a safety hazard for little hands. Sand affected areas using 120-grit sandpaper, always working with the grain. After sanding, apply a matching stain or oil to protect the exposed timber.
Minor Rot
Small areas of rot can be treated with a timber hardener product, which penetrates the soft wood and reinforces it. For larger rot patches, it's often better to cut out the affected section and replace it with new timber. If rot is extensive or affects structural components, consult a professional.
Fading and Greying
All timber will eventually fade and turn grey when exposed to the elements. This is a natural process and doesn't affect structural integrity. If you prefer the original colour, regular application of quality timber oil or stain will maintain the appearance. Alternatively, many people embrace the natural weathered look.
💡 Pro Tip: Choosing the Right Product
For best results, use products specifically designed for Australian conditions. Look for options with high UV protection ratings. Oil-based products penetrate the timber for longer-lasting protection, while water-based options are easier to apply and clean up. Avoid products that form a film on the surface, as these can peel and require more extensive preparation before recoating.
Tools and Products You'll Need
Keep these items on hand for regular cubby maintenance:
- Garden hose with spray attachment
- Soft bristle brush
- Bucket for washing solution
- 120-grit sandpaper
- Quality timber oil or stain (exterior grade, UV resistant)
- Paint brushes in various sizes
- Basic tools for tightening hardware
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Mould and mildew remover
When to Call a Professional
While most maintenance can be handled by any reasonably handy homeowner, some situations warrant professional attention. Consider calling in an expert if you notice structural damage affecting load-bearing components, extensive termite damage, significant rot in multiple areas, or if your cubby house requires restumping or relevelling.
The Long-Term Investment
Regular maintenance might seem like a chore, but the payoff is significant. A well-maintained wooden cubby house can easily last 15-20 years or more, providing countless hours of joy for your family. The alternative—neglect—typically results in a structure that deteriorates within 5-7 years, requiring expensive repairs or complete replacement.
Think of maintenance as protecting your investment. The few hours you spend each year on care will be repaid many times over in extended lifespan and continued safety for your children.