Bring out the natural beauty in bare wood

publication date: Jun 26, 2008

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author/source: David Harris

Untreated outdoor wood can look great when first put up, but as the wood weathers, it can swell, warp, crack and lose its original colour. Agata Kaim from Dulux Trade Woodcare explains how to retain the natural beauty in bare wood.

There is an increasing emphasis on transforming Agata Kain outdoor exteriors and gardens into stylish, pleasurable places to be and with wooden features at the heart of modern design, it’s imperative to give outdoor wood the best possible protection against weathering and decay.

Dulux Trade Weathershield Naked Wood has been specifically formulated to enhance the natural look of exterior wood, protecting it against deterioration and discolouration caused by extreme weather conditions.

Over time, the continued exposure to the elements will inevitably cause the look and feel of the exterior wood to change. All wood will eventually turn grey, with the surface losing its texture and initial good looks. This breakdown of the wood’s surface can be caused by several contributing factors, namely radiation from the sun; wet wood from the rain or dew followed by rapid drying; exposure to extreme temperatures; corrosive action by atmospheric chemicals and dirt or assault by microorganisms.

Dulux Trade Weathershield Naked Wood can not only prevent this greying process but also protect against other unwanted effects, such as cracking or splitting. Unprotected wood is also prone to mould and fungi that can cause unsightly staining. An example of this is blue stain, where fungi penetrate wood and form a blue/black discolouration. Protection is achieved through the use of a unique combination of UV absorbers and ICI Paints’ polyurethane technology, which provides a flexible and clear yet durable, protective coating. The result is a far superior finish to conventional varnish, with the integrity of the wood maintained and preserved without the need for constant attention.