THE KIWI HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO KWILA DECK MAINTENANCE

Kwila, also known as Merbau, is a richly-dark timber that is a high quality, strong and durable hardwood. Because it can handle harsh climates and is naturally resistant to both boring insects and fungal rotting, Kwila is a popular decking material in New Zealand.

But, Kwila decking faces some tough challenges- long-term exposure to UV rays, rain and heat can deteriorate your Kwila deck and make the once beautiful timber fade or distort with these common issues:

• Cupping

• Weathering

• Splitting

• Discolouration

• Silvering

• Moisture retention

The solution? Dryden OilStain Exterior! This is a deeply penetrating oil that nourishes most exterior timber species, including Kwila. It helps prevent all of the above-mentioned issues and extends the lifespan of your Kwila decking if treated and maintained properly.
To give your Kwila extra UV protection, add Colourtone+ to Dryden OilStain Exterior.

Dryden offers some of the best timber maintenance products, including premium-grade Kwila decking oil, stains and cleaners.

Specially made for New Zealand conditions, these wood care products are designed to help protect and enhance the natural beauty of your Kwila decking. You can easily find them at your local hardware or DIY store.

Moisture is the biggest enemy of Kwila decking. That’s why we created Dryden OilStain Exterior, a deeply penetrating, water-resistant oil that nourishes and protects the Kwila timber from within to help it last longer.

To protect your deck from NZ’s harsh sun, add Dryden Colourtone+, which provides colour to Dyden OilStain Exterior and comes in over 37 colours.

If your Kwila decking is brand new or already coated with a deeply penetrating oil, Dryden OilStain Exterior will be a premium choice for maintenance.

If it’s got a traditional oil-based stain, use Cabots Deck & Exterior Oil-Based.

If water-based stain, then Cabot’s Water Based Deck and Exterior Stain or Intergrain Ultradeck Timber Stain.

Dryden OilStain Exterior makes Kwila deck maintenance easy and effortless! There’s no need for fancy equipment -use any standard brush or speed pad (just not lambskin ones!) to apply.

Professionals can also use a roller or spray gun, but everyone gets a great-looking and long-lasting result!

#1 Do a solvent resistance test – The most common way to identify the type of coating is through solvent resistance tests. For example, if a water-based stain is treated with methylated spirits, it will quickly become gummy and sticky.

#2 Check appearance – To check if the coating is a film-forming stain, look at its appearance – if it looks shiny or plastic, or if it’s flaking, then it’s likely a film-forming stain.

#3 Do a burnish/dry rub test – For migrating oil stains, you can do a simple burnish/dry rub test with a clean rag to see how easily the pigment is removed. If the pigment comes off easily, this suggests a migrating stain was used.

However, please note that all the above methods are indicative only and not foolproof. So, to accurately identify the coating on your cladding, it’s better to talk to a professional.

One of the best stains for a Kwila deck is a transparent wood stain, as it brings out the beautiful, natural grain of Kwila. The combination of Dryden OilStain Exterior and ColourTone+ makes the perfect combination.

Dryden OilStain Exterior and ColourTone+ work together to prevent Kwila from cracking or flaking by nourishing and protecting the timber from within. This combination is also used to add colour to the timber while protecting it from harmful UV rays.

Remember to use the same colour throughout the application so your Kwila decking maintains a consistent look.

Using multiple cans? Mix them together to keep the same tone throughout. One method to do this is by ‘boxing’ – mix half of bucket one and half of bucket two in a separate bucket.

Keep in mind that the final colour of the stain or clear finish can vary based on the quality of application, type of timber, natural colour, texture, grain, and porosity.

Dryden OilStain Exterior is one of NZ’s most popular Kwila maintenance products because it is so easy to use.

• Apply with a wide bristle brush or a speed pad: For dressed or band-sawn Kwila, use a wide bristle brush or a speed pad – just avoid the lambswool types! A medium-nap roller or airless spray system can also be used to apply the oil to your decking.

• Keep stirring the oil: Remember to regularly stir the oil throughout the application process to maintain a consistent colour. You don’t need to apply fresh oil to every part of the deck unless it needs it. But if you do start on any face, finish it off! This ensures a nice colour consistency across the Kwila deck.

• Don’t thin or dilute: Dryden OilStain Exterior should not be thinned or altered in any way – you simply apply it to the wood surface and wipe off any excess solution. After the initial 30-60 minute waiting period, allow the deck to dry before applying another coat – it’s as easy as that!

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KWILA DECK MAINTENANCE

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