Woodoc Wood Protection
Reasons for Wood protection
When we understand the basics about timber, then we can appreciate the reasons for wood protection. Simply put, wood is a living material in whatever form it is found. Whether the wind blows through it’s living branches or if it is cut up, shaped and used as a piece or part of a structure, wood needs protection against the elements. This short article highlights basics for wood protection so that you know what to consider when you are purchasing wood or maintaining wood furniture.
How wood is protected
In its natural state as a tree, the bark – much like the human skin – is the main protection of the wood. Externally, wood is protected from the elements by the bark of the tree. While internally, the nutrients of the tree are maintained by the protection of the bark. This is one of the main reasons that when we discover trees being de-barked on the slopes of Table Mountain, or anywhere else in the country, that red flags of warning are raised. If there is no bark on the tree, there is no protection for the tree. It will eventually rot and die – similar to the human body.
Once a tree has been felled and cut up for use, it continues to need protection. Hence, the call to DIY customers to purchase wood protection products. By using paint to colour the wood, on the one hand, the wood is protected. Alternatively a natural wood finish protects wood, enhances its lustre and grain and nourishes the wood.
As carpenters, builders and DIY fanatics we need to learn the products and techniques which will help keep the natural look we want for our wood year after year.
The Basic training of Wood Care
First up, without treatment wood is exposed to moisture, fungus and UV-penetration. These factors can damage through expansion and contraction, warp and age wood. The best approach is a Woodoc approach. Let’s unpack that:
Woodoc penetrates wood deeply
Because Woodoc penetrates wood deeply, it binds with each layer becoming part of the surface of the wood. It is more than just a wood coating. Wood coatings will sit on the surface of the wood. Woodoc products will protect wood to a deeper level replacing the bark of a tree working in harmony with the wood.
Woodoc allows wood to breathe
As a living organism expansion and contraction is going to take place as the weather patterns change. Similarly wood may warp due to changes in conditions. Because Woodoc penetrates wood rather than sits on the surface, it allows for expansion and contraction. Woodoc products allow wood to breathe naturally. Importantly, it also means that the protection of wood is maintained throughout various seasons and weather conditions.
Moisture, Fungus and UV-penetration protection
Woodoc products don’t crack and as time elapses it retains its integrity to protect wood from degradation through water, fungus or UV-penetration. Through penetration and consistency it combats fungus, retards ageing and protects from mildew and mold. Finally as its effectiveness wanes, Woodoc doesn’t become brittle but biodegrades at the end of its life-cycle. It’s time for another application.
Easy to upgrade
Woodoc makes it easy to upgrade wood into a new era. If a solvent based sealer has been used, one can clean wood surfaces with steel wool and turpentine before resealing. Where water borne sealers have been used, a light sandpaper and re-sealing is all that is required. Remember to remove dust and loose particles.
In summary, wood is a living and breathing material and when we use it for domestic and commercial purposes, we need to ensure that its integrity is maintained. Woodoc products act as a protection of wood.
