Exterior Timber

Exterior Decking

Interior Timber

General

Preparation

Exterior Timber

How long does NaturalStain last?

Under ideal conditions, where the recommend preparation has been carried out, and the correct film thickness has been applied, NaturalStain will last approximately 3 to 4 times longer than a traditional decking oil, depending on the degree of exposure of the timber to the elements (for example, a sheltered courtyard deck will last longer than a highly exposed beachside house deck).

What should I use on my outdoor timber furniture?

It depends upon whether you want to highlight or change the colour of the timber or use a transparent finish.
Refer to What is the difference between a decking oil (Nature’s Timber Oil and UltraDeck) and a decking stain (NaturalStain)? question under the Exterior Decking section.

Do I have to use Dimension 4 under DWD?

Yes, to ensure that the maximum life of the product is achieved. Skipping the Dimension 4 step will shorten the life of the DWD finish dramatically. Dimension 4 is designed to help DWD adhere better to a timber substrate than it would if used alone. It works like a glue sticking the two together.

After applying NaturalStain do I need to apply UltraDeck or Nature’s Timber Oil?

No, two coats of NaturalStain will form a durable protective coating on the timber.

Is it safe to use UltraDeck and NaturalStain on my dog kennel?

Once fully dry, all Intergrain products are safe for use around household pets other than fish. Fish are more sensitive and their water may absorb contaminants if it is in constant contact with exterior durable coatings.

Can UltraClear Exterior be used for marine applications?

Yes, UltraClear Exterior can be used for protecting above waterline boating timbers.

What can be used instead of Seamaster which is no longer available?

UltraClear Exterior can be used for the same applications as Seamaster could be used for and has improved durability.

Exterior Decking

What is the difference between a decking oil (Nature’s Timber Oil and UltraDeck) and a decking stain (NaturalStain)?

Nature’s Timber Oil is a semi transparent protective finish that penetrates into the timber. UltraDeck is also a semi transparent protective finish that not only penetrates into the timber but it also forms a protective coating on the surface.

Nature’s Timber Oil and UltraDeck are available as Natural (which is suitable for all timbers as it doesn’t change the colour of the timber) or in tinted timber colours such as Merbau and Jarrah. These tinted timber colours impart an increased depth of colour to the natural colour of the timber whilst providing extra protection. The tint helps to protect the timber from UV attack and will help maintain the timber colour for longer. UltraDeck and Nature’s Timber Oil are ideal for using on new timber, timber that has retained its colour, or weathered timber whose colour can be revived by sanding back or by using Reviva.

NaturalStain is semi-transparent protective staining finish that both penetrates into the timber and forms a protective coat. NaturalStain does not penetrate as deeply into the timber as Nature’s Timber Oil or UltraDeck. It has more colour than a decking oil and therefore can be used to change the colour of the timber while still allowing the natural grain of the timber to show through. NaturalStain will last longer than UltraDeck, and will last at least three times longer than a traditional decking oil.  For example, a light timber, such as treated pine can be stained to a Jarrah colour. It can also be used to enhance the natural timber colour or stain old, grey, weathered timber that has lost all natural colour. For example, NaturalStain Merbau can be used on a new merbau deck for a rich, deep brown finish or an old, weathered merbau deck to add colour.

What is reeded decking?

Reeded decking has had grooves carved into it along the length of the timber. The grooves may be on one or both sides of the timber. Originally, the reeds were designed to be laid downwards to allow air movement around the joists they were laid onto to help prevent rotting. However, the reeds are often laid upwards as many believe they stop slipping. This is not the case as grooves trap water and encourage the growth of algae which makes the surface more slippery. Coatings applied to reeded decking have a shorter lifespan than those applied to smooth, un-reeded decks

Why can’t I apply DWD with a roller?

A roller will spread the DWD out too thinly, therefore not forming the coat thickness that is required to ensure a durable, protective coating. The resulting coating will also have an unpleasant mottled effect.

Why can’t I use DWD on reeded decking?

DWD needs to be applied as a thick even coat. The reeded side, or grooved side, does not allow the DWD to be applied evenly, and therefore the protective, thick even coat is not achieved. The coating flows away from the peaks into the troughs, resulting in a coating that is thinner than recommended and therefore has a shorter lifespan. DWD should only be used on smooth, unreeded decks.

How long does UltraDeck last?

Under ideal conditions, where the recommended preparation has been carried out and the correct film thickness has been applied, UltraDeck will last at least twice as long as a traditional decking oil when used in the same situation. The degree of exposure of the timber to the elements, especially UV exposure, will have a major impact on how long any timber coating lasts for. For example, a sheltered courtyard deck coating will last longer than an highly exposed beachside house deck coating.

Can I use UltraDeck over a deck that has been previously coated with a oil based decking oil?

Yes, if the timber has weathered and lost all water repellency (test by seeing if water still beads on the surface). The timber should then be cleaned with Reviva and UltraDeck applied. If the timber is water repellent, the deck can be left to weather further (until it no longer water beads) or it can be sanded back.

Can UltraDeck be used over DWD?

No. DWD must be thoroughly removed back to bare timber. A combination of Intergrain Liquid 8 Paint Remover and power washing, or sanding is recommended. Then clean all timber with Intergrain Reviva Timber Cleaner closely following label instructions. Ensure surface is rinsed clean and allowed to thoroughly dry. Test if the surface is ready for coating by sprinkling water on the timber. If the water beads on the surface repeat the application of Reviva. If the water is absorbed into the timber it is ready for coating. In humid, tropical or mould susceptible areas timber should be coated with Intergrain TSS. TSS should be left for 24 hours before applying UltraDeck.

Can UltraDeck be used over NaturalStain?

If the NaturalStain is in good condition:
No. NaturalStain must be thoroughly removed back to bare timber. A combination of Intergrain Liquid 8 Paint Remover and power washing, or sanding is recommended. Then clean all timber with Intergrain Reviva Timber Cleaner closely following label instructions. Ensure surface is rinsed clean and allowed to thoroughly dry. Test if the surface is ready for coating by sprinkling water on the timber. If the water beads on the surface repeat the application of Reviva. If the water is absorbed into the timber it is ready for coating. In humid, tropical or mould susceptible areas timber should be coated with Intergrain TSS. TSS should be left for 24 hours before applying UltraDeck.

If the NaturalStain is in poor condition (weathered):
Yes. If the NaturalStain has weathered and no longer seals the surface clean all timber with Intergrain Reviva Timber Cleaner closely following label instructions. Ensure surface is rinsed clean and allowed to thoroughly dry. Test if the surface is ready for coating by sprinkling water on the timber. If the water beads on the surface repeat the application of Reviva. If the water is absorbed into the timber it is ready for coating. In humid, tropical or mould susceptible areas timber should be coated with Intergrain TSS. TSS should be left for 24 hours before applying UltraDeck.

Do I need to wait before coating my new deck?

If the timber is new then it is recommended that you wait approximatelyfour to six weeks before preparing the deck with Reviva and then coating your deck with a decking oil or stain. Tannin rich and oily timbers may require longer. Timber is ready for coating when all the tannins and oils have leeched from the timber. To speed up the weathering process, wash the deck as often as possible which will assist the leeching process.

My deck has gone grey, do I have to stain it now to have a timber coloured deck?

By using Reviva you can bring back the colour of the natural wood depending on the age of the timber. Reviva will remove dead grey fibres and any dirt, oils and tannins. Once the timber has dried, you’ll see the true colour of the timber and can decide if you want to use a decking oil or a decking stain. Refer to What is the difference between a decking oil (Nature’s Timber Oil and UltraDeck) and a decking stain (NaturalStain)? question under the Exterior Decking section.

If I have sanded my deck (or any exterior timber) do I need to wash it with Reviva?

Yes, to ensure the timber is properly prepared for coating. When the timber is sanded the process draws out the natural oils that can sometimes create a waxy finish. This waxy finish can prevent the timber finishes from adhering properly. Washing with Reviva ensures that the timber is ready for coating.

How do I sand my deck if the screws are projecting above the timber surface?

Unfortunately, as screws cannot be punched in like nails, you will have to either remove and counter sink each screw and sand, or wait until the old coating has weathered and lost all water repellency before cleaning with Reviva and coating.

Can I use UltraClear Exterior over NaturalStain?

Yes.  UltraClear Exterior can be used over NaturalStain for a gloss or satin finish, and for added protection.

Will UltraGrip affect the durability of the coating?

No.  As UltraGrip becomes part of the UltraDeck/NaturalStain/UltraFloor coating it does not affect its durability.

Does UltraGrip need to be added to each coat of UltraDeck, NaturalStain or UltraFloor?

Yes.  This will ensure that maximum slip resistance is achieved.

Interior Timber

Can I use UltraClear Interior on a timber floor?

As floors are a high wear surface, it is necessary to use a product that has been designed for durability and foot traffic toughness, such as UltraFloor. These products are more durable than UltraClear Interior which is designed to be used for coating interior timber such as furniture, doors, panelling etc.

Is UltraClear Interior and UltraFloor safe to use where children play?

Yes, all Intergrain finishes are considered to be products of low hazard and therefore they are safe to use where children play. They are manufactured without the use of lead driers and are low in VOCs.

Why is UltraGrip not recommended for use in UltraFloor Gloss?

UltraGrip has a matting effect to the coating therefore the gloss will become more of a satin finish once the UltraGrip has been added. There is no actual technical issue with adding UltraGrip to UltraFloor Gloss but be aware the gloss level will decrease.

General

Why are water based timber finishing products better?

Water based timber finishes are based on water, instead of solvents, and are therefore better for the environment, being low in VOCs and easier to clean up. Brushes etc can be washed up in water, whereas brushes etc used for solvent based finishes need to be washed up in turps. Water based products are also quicker to dry, which often means you can apply all the coats required within one day.

What is a flood coat?

A flood coat is when lots of the product, for example Dimension 4, is applied to the surface of the timber, so it becomes flooded.

What is back brushing?

When applying a product with a roller, applicator or spray it may be necessary to back brush, or work the product into the timber with a brush after it has been applied. This ensures that the product can penetrate properly and the colour is even. Back brushing also helps to remove excess product and overlap marks.

What is dressed timber?

Dressed timber has been planed to a smooth finish.

What are tannins?

Tannins are chemicals produced by plants to help protect them against insect attack. Tannins can appear as brown stains on the wood and, being mostly water soluble, can be washed from timber by the rain, staining pavers and other surfaces. Tannin stains are often mistaken for a timber coating that has been washed off by the rain. Reviva can be used to remove tannins from some types of pavers. We recommended testing Reviva on the surface of pavers first in a small, inconspicuous area before applying on a larger scale.

Does timber breathe?

No, timber is dead the moment the tree is cut down. It does have pores or pits in the surface, but these do not open and close. They remain in the same position they were in when the tree died. Pores allow moisture to pass into the timber when the ambient humidity is high and they are the path for moisture to move out of the timber when the humidity falls.

What are UV absorbers?

UV absorbers are chemical compounds added to a coating that trap the UV and convert it to a less damaging type of energy, and so prevent the UV harming the surface of the timber.

What is the coverage rate?

The coverage rate is the rate that the product should be spread at in order to achieve the ideal thickness for that particular product so that the optimum performance and life span is achieved. If not spread at the recommended coverage rate the coating will look too thin and unfinshed and will fail prematurely.

Is there a finish available that lightens the colour of timber?

No. You can only darken a colour by applying a stain. Timber can be lightened by removing all previous coatings and sanding back.

Can Reviva be used to remove tannins from pavers?

Reviva can be used to remove tannins from some types of pavers. We recommended testing Reviva on the surface first in a small, inconspicuous area before applying on a larger scale.

Preparation

Why do I need to clean my new timber prior to coating?

New timber can contain a lot of tannins and oils. The darker the timber, the more tannin it contains. The tannins, oils and dirt need to be cleaned from the timber before applying a timber finish by using Reviva. Additionally, from the moment a tree is felled, it is susceptible to attack by mould and fungal spores that lodge in the surface. The conditions under a newly applied coating are ideal for their germination, and cleaning with Reviva will remove them. Timber in humid, tropical and mould susceptible areas should also be coated with TSS prior to applying the selected timber finish.

Can Woodblend colours be mixed?

Woodblend colours can be mixed to match the colour of the timber that it is being applied too. As many colours as required can be mixed by kneading them together. It is recommended that a darker shade of putty colour is selected as the filled area will look like a knot or a natural imperfection.

Should TSS be washed off?

No, TSS needs to left on the cleaned surface for 24 hours to become activated before applying a product over the top.

Can I make Liquid 8 work faster?

If possible, after applying the Liquid 8, wrap the timber being stripped in cling film and leave for a short time. The vapour that builds up between the timber and the wrap will improve the effectiveness of the stripper. If completing a large job use a clear plastic drop sheet to cover the Liquid 8. If using on a deck, take care as Liquid 8 is slippery.