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Treating wood for long-lasting beauty

Treating wood for long-lasting beauty

Wood is an important and versatile material, capable of constructing a huge array of structures, from the small (a shelf) to the medium (a staircase) and large (a boat). However, if not maintained correctly, wood can be vulnerable to deterioration, especially in environments where mould, algae, fungi and wood-boring insects are likely. Treating the wood with a preserver can ensure the longevity of the material.
In past years, wooden projects were treated with creosote, engine oil or other preservers that contained biocides and insecticides.

Thankfully, modern wood preservers are generally safer for both the user and the environment.

So, how to know which one to use? Clear preservers can help to retain the natural appearance of the wood, whereas coloured preservers can both protect and stain the wood. Wood preserver helps to bring out the wood's natural beauty as well as protect it. As varnish or paint will not provide adequate protection, a preserver must be applied first. There is also the risk of woodworm, which means you’d have to replace the wood.

Like paint, wood preservers come in solvent-based and water-based varieties. Worldwide regulations mean preservers are now largely water-based formulas, but for safety reasons, it’s best to double-check before purchasing. Solvent-based preservers contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which can cause irritation and nervous system damage.

Wood preserver acts as an undercoat. If you want your woodwork to last, apply the wood with a few coats of wood preserver, then wait until dry before then applying your desired topcoat.

If not using a topcoat, do ensure you select a preserver containing wax. This will help to waterproof the wood’s surface, as well as increase shield and protection against sun damage.

Although not capable of providing complete protection, wood varnish can also be applied to wooden doors and gates to protect against UV light and water penetration.

Exterior varnish also protects against adverse weather factors, which would normally place the wood at risk of cracking, peeling and blistering. Aesthetically, it can add a lovely shine to finish your piece of wood.

Exterior wood paints can also help with making the wood high-quality for as long as possible. You can choose any desired colour to give your garden shed, trellis or bird boxes a much-needed makeover. Non-drip varieties are the best to go for, making sure they are also wax-enriched. Not only is this pet and child-friendly, but it also helps to repel water. Applying paint can maintain your outside wood no matter what the weather throws at it.

In terms of timber, pressure treatment is a process used by merchants to force wood preservatives or fire-retardants into the wood, with the aim of preserving its timber life.

In doing so, the timer reaches the manufacturer, and ultimately, the consumer, in the best possible condition.

Preservatives ensure the wood is protected from termites and fungal decay, while fire-retardant treatments reduce the flame that would stem from a fire.