THE NATURAL WEATHERING OF ARBOR WOOD CO. THERMOWOOD®
COLOR & WEATHERING
Thermal modification changes the naturally occurring sugars in the wood, resulting in beautiful, rich, brown tones which extend through the full thickness of the material. Since Arbor Wood is still a natural product it is subject to variations in weight, density, color, and grain patterns. In an exterior environment, unfinished Arbor Wood products will move to a beautiful silver/gray in 12-18 months. This does not impact the performance characteristics of the wood itself. The speed of this graying process depends on the intensity of exposure to environmental elements like the sun and rain combined with the type of application. Regular maintenance with a penetrating oil will reduce checking and cracking and will extend the life expectancy of the product.
MAINTAINING COLOR TONE
If left unfinished, Arbor Wood will gradually turn gray under the influence of sunlight and elements like rain and snow. The grey color does not affect the wood’s performance or resistance to decay. Note that clear oil without a colortone does not prevent natural greying, but will help slow down the weathering process and reduce checking and cracks in the wood. To maintain the original color we recommend applying a penetrating oil such as Cutek Extreme® along with a UV Colortone as clear oil finishes alone are not UV resistant. A light sanding or application of Cutek Wood Reviver will remove the surface silvering and restore the original wood tones. Please note, product color and factory applied finishes are not covered under the product warranty.
STAINS & LEACHING DUE TO WATER
In the case of modified species, most of the tannins are removed during the thermal modification process. Some residual particulates can be found present in small doses. This is a short-term issue as they will deplete over time. Tannins (polyphenols) in particular are likely to react with alkaline surfaces such as concrete to form an unsightly red/brown stain. If left alone to weather, the level of extractive runoff will reduce and result in a significant reduction in ongoing staining over time. Chemical cleaning and removal of these stains is a simple and easy process with wood cleaner like CUTEK® Quickclean.
NATURAL AGING
If a silver patina look is desired there is really no action needed. Left natural, Arbor Wood Co. Products will develop a silver patina over the course of the first 6-18 months after installation. The speed of this graying process depends on the intensity of exposure to environmental elements like the sun and rain combined with the type of application, for example, due to its horizontal exposure, decking tends to weather faster than siding. Another option is to finish with just a clear oil with no UV additive. This method will help protect and condition the wood while still allowing it to move to grey. It is best to coat all sides of the board prior to installation with an additional application on the exposed face after installation.
GALLERY
