Painting and protecting external timber products

Essential guide for preserving your outdoor timber

Maximising the durability of your outdoor timber is critical for safeguarding them against the challenging Australian climate. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure the best protection.
During manufacturing, we can pre paint ends on balusters, fretwork uprights (sticks and motifs) and bottom rails before assembly as an option.

A proper initial preparation of the timber surface, followed by a straightforward maintenance routine, guarantees that your timber remains pristine and durable indefinitely.

Care and painting guidelines

Follow these detailed steps for painting external timber products to ensure optimal protection and longevity:

1. Protection prior to painting

  • Shield raw timber products from sunlight and moisture until the aluminium wood primer has been applied.

2. Preparing the surface

  • Fill any imperfections or holes with an external-grade wood filler.
  • Clean the surface to be free of moisture, dust, and debris.

3. Applying primer

  • Use an alkyd-based primer for its excellent adhesion and sealing capabilities.
  • Coat all areas, including joins and cuts, with two layers of primer, allowing each to dry thoroughly.

4. Top coat application

  • Choose between exterior acrylic/water-based or oil-based paints for the top coat.
  • Apply two to three layers, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

5. Testing the paint

  • Test the paint on a small section to confirm it meets your aesthetic requirements.

6. Comprehensive painting

  • Paint every side of the timber, especially the ends, before installation.
  • To select the right painting materials, consult a local paint supplier and adhere to all safety instructions on the products used.

Maintenance for longevity

Maintaining your painted timber is crucial for its appearance and integrity. Here’s how to keep it in prime condition:

1. Annual check-up

  • Examine the timber annually for any signs of wear, such as cracks or splits.

2. Immediate repairs

  • Address any damage found by sealing and repainting promptly to block moisture entry.

3. Keep up appearances

  • Match any repair work with the existing finish to maintain a cohesive look.

Alkyd primers, formulated from modified oil-based resins, and acrylic paints can be layered together successfully, thanks to their chemical compatibility. Alkyd paints cure through oxidation, forming a durable surface.

Adhering to these painting and maintenance recommendations ensures your timber withstands time and elements, keeping it beautiful for years to come.