he best way to protect wood over winter, without damaging its natural aesthetics, is by following a simple three-step formula – protect, repel and maintain.
Step one: protect
Without proper protection, exterior wood is vulnerable to a number of external hazards, from general detritus to rot, fungus, insects and even fire. One of the biggest threats to external timber is fungal and rot decay, which can significantly reduce the strength of the wood. Fungus appears as an off-white, felt-like sheet on the wood’s surface, but can develop into fungal strands. In comparison, wood that is susceptible to wet rot has a typically soft and spongy feel and looks darker than the surrounding wood. Wet rot can prove hazardous if untreated and will damage the aesthetics of the wood.
The most effective ‘method’ of preventing fungal and rot deterioration in wood, is to keep the wood dry. However, in winter months, this is a near impossible task for exterior wood.
Pressure treating wood has become a common method for protecting exterior wood against external ailments as discussed, however many are deterred by its high use of chemicals. Not only does this have a harmful effect on the ground’s surroundings, the chemicals used also bring a detrimental effect to the wood’s aesthetics, giving the timber an unnatural green hue over time. Sustainable and environmentally-friendly alternatives to chemical treatments are becoming more popular and are gradually coming onto the market, including OrganoWood.
Step two: repel
Once the wood has been protected from external hazards, it is important that the chosen finish repels common elements, including water and dirt. These natural elements can lead to decay which, if left untreated, can lead to permanent damage.
To keep exterior wood looking its best over the winter months and to ensure long-term protection from the harsh elements, it is recommended to apply a wood treatment product that increases the superficial protection of the wood against external elements such as wind, rain, frost and snow.
When selecting a product to protect wooden surfaces, it is important to ensure that the product will maintain the wood’s breathability, as well as reduce the likeliness of swelling or shrinkage. A high-quality product should also ensure that no cracking, flaking, peeling and blistering of either the wood or the product will occur.
Step three: maintain
Cleaning exterior wood is the most cost-effective method to maintaining its longevity, so architects and contractors should explain and advise their clients accordingly. Simply clearing the wood’s surface and removing any build-up of fallen leaves, moss or snow over the winter months will help maintain the wood’s breathability and prevent the wood becoming sodden and exposed to damp for long periods.
Dirt can prevent the material from drying, which over time can lead to rot and decay in exterior wooden surfaces. Timber has a sly way of harbouring dirt on the surface, and can appear clean to an untrained eye. The best way to ensure the wood is thoroughly clean is to use an exterior wood detergent.
As well as restoring the wood to its natural best, cleaning the wood will provide the optimum surface for treatment, ensuring the best protection.
