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Keys to Success in Coating a Structure

Keys to Success in Coating a Structure

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The keys to success in coating an exterior structure with NatureColor®, NatureOne® or any other wood finish product.

TEMPERATURE AND MOISTURE SPECIFICATIONS
  • Temperature of surface and air must be between 50° F and 90°
  • Do Not apply a finish if temperature is expected to drop below 50°F within 4 hours of application.
  • Do Not apply a finish in the direct sunlight, or when surface is hot to the touch, or the temperature is above 80°
  • Moisture must not be present in the air, on the surface or the interior of the wood.
  • Do Not apply if the humidity level is high.
  • Do Not apply if rain is present or expected to be within 24 hours before or after your application of NatureColor®, and within 4 hours before or after your application of NatureOne®.
  • Do Not apply when dew is present on the surface.
  • Do Not apply if the wood moisture content is above 18%.
SURFACE PREPARATION

Prior to applying a Structures Wood Care finish to new wood or over an existing finish remove dirt, mildew, foreign matter like bug residue and pollen and mill glaze (a surface film often produced during the milling process of smooth sawn wood). If you don’t clean these impurities from the surface, your finish will not properly adhere to the wood and your finish could peel. Cleaning methods vary when addressing unfinished wood, or wood with an existing finish. In some cases, it is necessary to remove the existing finish so that the new finish will adhere properly.

CAULK ALL SEAMS

Caulking prevents moisture from seeping into the wood. Dry wood is more stable and doesn’t provide the environment for mildew and fungus growth.  It is the constant wetting and drying, swelling and shrinking, that weakens the cell structure and accelerates weathering. Use only Polyurethane or Latex caulk with Structures Wood Care products. DO NOT use caulk with any Silicone on the ingredient label.

  • Apply a fresh coat of finish FIRST and let the finish cure as directed This will make it easier to wipe off excess caulk with a damp rag.
  • Use either clear caulk or a dark color (notice that cracks and splits are always darker).
  • After the caulk has cured to the directions, you can now apply another coat of stain, if necessary.
  • Fill large cracks and splits with a product like Backer Rod or SOR Rod in lieu of caulk.
APPLY THE MAINTENANCE COAT ON A TIMELY BASIS

Sunlight dries out the wood finish and the coating becomes fragile. Recoating freshens the coating allowing the coating to move with the wood and continue to protect the wood from the elements – keeping the home looking new – year after year.

 

See Structures product manual for further information.