Exterior timber in need of some TLC? Fear not, it doesn’t need to be a massive hassle. It is a common misconception that re-coating a stained timber deck will hide everything. According to Anthony Scott of Channel 10’s DIY program The Home Team, re-coating instead of cleaning first, is more likely to highlight the stains, trapping them and making the timber look worse than it was.
Revitalising a timber deck to protect it over the coming cold and wet winter months can be a simple weekend project when using a specific cleaning program that removes stains properly and rejuvenates the natural beauty of timber. “Having a timber deck helps frame the home as well as adding a soft touch to the front or backyard,” says Anthony. “However, a grey weathered deck will do just the opposite. Sikkens provides a quick and easy solution to remove dirt and grime from timber, leaving it fresh and in its natural raw timber state. The Sikkens Cetol BL Deck and Wood Cleaner is a fast acting gel that only takes 15 minutes to revitalise and brighten grey and weathered timber.”
In some instances, the existing coating may be peeling, flaking or have a different product to the new coating, for example if the existing is an oil based coating and the new coating is water based. If this is the case, it will be necessary to strip back and sand the timber before applying a new coat.
Once the timber is clean and dry, and the surface ready for a new coat, Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro is a water based coating that can be re-applied within two hours. Providing superior durability and flexibility, with quick drying properties, Cetol BLX-Pro is available in five ready mixed stains and will provide a high-quality, transparent finish that accentuates the natural characteristics and colour of the timber.
For more information visit the Sikkens Australia YouTube channel or www.sikkens.com.au
