Eaves, exterior siding, exposed structural framing, window frames, etc., can all be made of wood and many residences are built with such components. Do you know how to protect your home’s exterior woodwork from the elements?
There are certain steps that can help you preserve the woods original beauty. Indeed, protecting exterior woodwork is very necessary as it is under constant attack from Mother Nature: wind, sun, rain, snow and freezing rain can all take a toll over time. Here are our suggestions of products you can use and things you can do to protect and maintain your home’s wooden features.
TO PROTECT
There are 3 types of effective protection options:
Resin-Based Stains
There are many stains that promise to protect wood from damage due to moisture, insects, mould and sunlight. The most effective are those with a formula rich in resin. Unlike paint, stain will not flake. You can choose either coloured or tinted stain. Our first bit of advice is to opt for a tinted stain if you want the wood’s grain to show through. This product should be reapplied every 4 years or so.
UV Resistant Anti-Fungal Microporous Paint
Offering a smooth finish and a rich colour, this type of paint is primarily used for wood protection. It makes the wood completely water-resistant while allowing water vapour through and thus letting the wood “breath.” Applying this paint will also effectively prevent mould from attacking the wood and will slow down discolouration, which is great. Surfaces should be repainted every 6 years.
Varnish Has Its Limits!
You can simply seal the woodwork with a coat of matte or glossy varnish. This is often what homeowners who want to preserve the wood’s natural rustic appearance choose to do. However, varnish only protects against heat, water and surface scratches. Furthermore, it naturally chips away over time and will have to be reapplied after about 5 years. For these reasons, it isn’t the best product option.
TO MAINTAIN
Clean
Whether the wood is varnished, painted or stained, it is recommended that the surface be cleaned with a trisodium phosphate solution (T.S.P.) every year minimum. This will eliminate embedded dirt and any mould.
Repair
If the wood is too damaged, it will require more intensive care, such as a thorough stripping. A heat gun or chemical paint remover will make a quick job of it. Patch up any holes and cracks with tinted wood filler (to match the wood’s colour). Finally, restore it to its former glory by sanding the surface with fine grit sandpaper.
Prevent
Spring is the perfect season to take care of your home’s exterior woodwork, especially when the weather is mild (ideally between 15 °C and 25 °C). Too much sunlight might interfere with the application of paints, varnishes or stains by making them dry too quickly. Make sure you have enough time to complete both coats before it rains.
Also, for the smoothest finish, don’t forget to apply the product following the direction of the grain. And always wear gloves (and a mask if necessary) to protect your skin from chemicals.
Buyers will invariably prefer properties that have been well maintained by the owners over the years. Taking proper care of your home’s exterior wooden components is, therefore, practically an investment!