Is your timber deck or fence lacking its once vibrant color, appearing dull and grey?
Are you contemplating the need for a complete timber replacement? If you’re seeking ways to revive weathered and greyed timber, fret not. With a bit of knowledge and the appropriate tools, you can have your timber looking brand new again in no time. The great news is that you can accomplish this task on your own, without the need for lengthy hours of sanding.
Why does timber weather?
To begin with, it is important to grasp the causes behind timber weathering. When wood is exposed to sunlight, rain, and dew, dark hues tend to fade as a result of leaching and bleaching, while lighter tones darken due to oxidation. Over time, however, all timber surfaces exposed to rainfall undergo a greying process. This change in color primarily affects the outer layers, which are predominantly composed of cellulose. Prolonged exposure to the elements leads to the degradation of lignin, the substance responsible for binding wood cells together, which is subsequently washed away along with sugars, starches, and extractives. In environments conducive to fungal growth, the resulting greying effect can appear dirty and unevenly distributed.
How do I fix weathered timber?
Scientifically speaking, the silvering effect observed on the timber is only superficial, indicating that a potent cleaner can effectively remove the discoloration without the need for expensive replacement. In this regard, we suggest utilizing CUTEK® Restore, a product specifically designed to simplify this process. CUTEK® Restore is typically applied undiluted, but it can be diluted with water if necessary. For more comprehensive information regarding spreading rate, dwell times, safety precautions, and other details, please refer to the Technical Data Sheet (TDS). It is advisable to conduct a small test patch with CUTEK® Restore to determine the optimal working time for your specific project. Once applied to the timber, CUTEK® Restore will handle the majority of the work. After allowing it sufficient time to work its magic, remove the product using a high-pressure washer equipped with a fan nozzle (avoid using a garden hose as it may not be suitable).
Case Study
A few years back, Ben and Tracey purchased their first home and, like many homeowners, have been gradually enhancing their living space. One of the notable features of their property was a weathered pine fence that had endured a decade of exposure to the elements without any cleaning or protection. Initially, they believed that the fence was beyond redemption and planned to demolish and replace it entirely. However, they decided to give CUTEK® Restore a chance. Opting for a diluted solution of three-parts water to one-part CUTEK® Restore, they applied it to the timber and allowed it to work its magic for a full 24 hours before pressure-washing it off. To their amazement, the results were astounding.
How do I protect timber from weathering?
Ben and Tracey didn’t just stop at restoring their fence; they understood that without proper protection, their hard work would eventually succumb to the elements. Once their fence had dried, they applied a coat of CUTEK® Extreme CD50. For the CUTEK® Colourtone, they opted for double-strength Merbau, which beautifully transformed the original soft blonde hue of the pine into a rich deep brown shade. Unlike other coatings that merely coat the surface of the wood, CUTEK® Extreme CD50 deeply permeates the timber, providing protection from within. By effectively diffusing into the timber, it minimizes moisture absorption and ensures long-term deck protection. Moreover, with the added CUTEK® Colourtone, Ben and Tracey now have the advantage of safeguarding their timber against the damaging effects of harsh UV rays and sun exposure.
If you would like to know more about how CUTEK® products could help your project, you can reach us on 1300 1 CUTEK, or by using our customer enquiry form.
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