|
PERFORMANCE TIPS
Restoration and Maintenance of Wood Decks
PENOFIN® penetrating
oil finishes are formulated to enhance and protect the natural beauty
of your deck. Your deck will look newer and last longer with proper care
and maintenance.
Causes of the Natural Aging Process:
Sunlight- Ultraviolet radiation breaks down the cellular
structure resulting in a "graying effect."
Moisture- Water settles in the open cellular layers
wherever there is a break and promotes rotting.
Temperature- Freezing and thawing, especially where
water has penetrated the inner cellular layers, accelerates cellular deterioration.
Microorganisms- Mold and mildew are particularly common
trouble makers. Green, black, or gray discoloration is caused by mildew
colonization.
Particulate- Particulate matter comes in many forms
such as dirt, soot, pollen, and food. These organic particulates provide
nutrients for microbial growth and accelerate wood deterioration.
Inorganic stains may result from iron in nails or other hardware darkening
the surface. Lime found in mortar mixes may leach from adjacent brick
or stonework and coat the deck surface causing a variety of staining.
Extractive Bleeding- Extractives include tannins and
other polyphenolics, colorings oils, resins, gums, etc. They contribute
to such properties as color, odor, decay, and flammability. Water-soluble
extractives will cause stain discoloration. Nonwater-soluble extractives
such as pitch and resin may bleed through the surface and harden there
when the solvent evaporates.
How do deck cleaners work?
Phosphoric Acid- The active ingredient in PENOFIN's
WEATHERBLASTER® effectively removes the gray of aged tannins on unfinished
decks without sanding. It is completely environmentally sound.
Bleach- Effective on mildew. Kills spores and
removes stains. Use solution of ¼ cup of bleach to one cup of water. Agitate
with a nonmetallic brush and rinse off thoroughly after adequate time
to remove the problem.
Trisodium Phosphate- Trisodium Phosphate-TSP may
be purchased at your local hardware store. Mix ¼ cup of TSP to one gallon
and follow the directions on the box.
Pressure Spraying - Power washing is used widely by
professional applicators and should be left to the professionals. Properly
performed, there are several advantages to power washing including saving
of time and labor. The whole idea of power washing is that water under
high pressure will strip off the outer dead cellular layers along with
particulate and microorganisms. After power washing you may need to countersink
the exposed nailheads. (For softer woods, pressures of 1,000 to 1,200
p.s.i. should not be exceeded.)
Sanding- Occasionally sanding may be necessary. For
best results, sand smooth surfaces with a 10,000 r.p.m. orbital sander.
Start with a 40- to 80-grit sand paper and finish with a 100- to 140-
grit paper. Sanding should not be performed on rough sawn wood.
Follow all label instructions carefully.
Copyright © 2002-2004. All Rights Reserved.
|
|
