Your Comprehensive Guide to Timber Coatings

When it comes to selecting the right timber coating for your architectural projects, the options can be overwhelming. Each coating type offers unique benefits and is suited to different applications. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the various timber coating options available, their pros and cons, and the best use cases for each.

Option 1: Clear Oil Timber Coating

Clear Oil is an oil-based coating that penetrates the timber surface, creating a protective layer. It is effective at protecting against moisture but degrades faster than film coatings when exposed to direct sunlight. Adding colour tones can slow the weathering process, though these need to be applied post-installation.

Why choose Clear Oil Timber Coating?

• Cost-effective: Most affordable option.
• Versatile Applications: Suitable for both interior and exterior timber.
• Natural Aging: Fades with full sun exposure, ideal if a weathered look is desired.
• Moisture Protection: Stabilises timber and reduces mould growth.

Key Features:

• Deep penetration for hydration and stability.
• No cracking, peeling, or flaking – fades gradually.
• Matte finish enhances natural grain.
• Long-term moisture protection reduces cupping, warping, and splitting.
• Water-repellent properties.
• Suitable for both interior and exterior use.

Pros and Cons:

Option 2: Natural Accent Coatings

Natural Accent Coatings are water-based clear film coatings available in both and sheltered exterior options. They can be enhanced with stains to accentuate the grain texture and can also be custom colour matched to other finishes.

Why choose Natural Accent Timber Coating?

• Interior Applications: Best for interior timber applications.
• Natural Aesthetic: Highlights the grain of natural timber best.
• Maintenance: Easy to clean.
• Range of Colours: Can be stained or tinted

Key Features:

Natural Accent – Interior:

• Best for interior walls and ceilings.
• Natural matte finish (5% Gloss).
• Easy to clean.
• Can be stained or tinted for different colours.
  

Natural Accent – Sheltered Exterior:

• Ideal for sheltered exterior applications and high humidity interiors like pool environment. 
• Natural satin finish (10% gloss) 
• Can be stained or tinted for different colours. 
• More cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing than Intergrain. 

Pros and Cons:

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Option 3: Intergrain Timber Coating

Intergrain is an oil-film hybrid coating combining the best features of other coatings. It provides a penetrating coat that lasts longer and effectively protects timber surfaces. This low-VOC, water-based product is designed for harsh climates and contains pigments for UV protection, though this slightly reduces the natural timber effect.

Why Choose Intergrain Timber Coating?

• Durability: Most durable option for fully exposed exterior timber.
• Low Maintenance: Longest maintenance cycles, requiring less frequent reapplications.
• UV Protection: Ideal for fully exposed exterior applications where colour longevity is desired.

Key Features:

• Natural weathering without flaking, peeling, or blistering.
• Resists mould growth and foot traffic wear.
• Minimal maintenance required.
• Semi-gloss finish maintains timber grain appearance.

Pros and Cons:

Fire-Rated Timber Coatings

For projects requiring fire ratings, we offer the following interior-only timber coating treatments, which can be tinted:

• Firesheild (AU/NZ Group 1)
• Fire Stop 99 (US Class A – ASTM E84)
• HR Prof (UK/EU Class B)

Another option for applications requiring fire ratings, consider our Wood Finish or real timber veneered aluminium profiles.

Choosing the Right Timber Coating

By understanding the unique benefits and ideal applications of each timber coating, you can make an informed decision that best suits your project’s needs. Whether you prioritise cost, durability, or aesthetic appeal, there’s a timber coating solution tailored to your needs. You can check this out in our Price & Spec tool.

Comparison Table