Sioo:x

SiOO:X Wood Protection is a water-based wood impregnation system which uses proven silicate technology and natural materials to give wood long life surface protection.


It is completely safe, inert and environmentally friendly.

SiOO:X uses a patented two component system consisting of the SiOO:X Wood Protector and SiOO:X Surface Protector. The two components are designed to be used together in exterior environments and interact synergistically to create a unique system to protect wood surfaces.

The effect is due to the properties of mineral silicates. In essence the method imitates how nature itself protects wood by petrifaction or creation of fossils. The SiOO:X system only contains natural mineral and plant-derived ingredients which are biocide and emission free.

SIOO:X Weathering Example

Video is offered as a guide to colour and finish of Sioox transformation over time. Each species can react slightly different. The final outcome can vary depending on species. For more or other timbers please speak contact us email sioox@brittontimbers.com.au

Strengthens and protects the surface of the timber

Beautiful, uniform silver-grey driftwood-like surface patina

For exterior vertical and horizontal surfaces

Water repellent and vapour permeable (the timber breathes)

Less maintenance costs in the long term compared to other semi-transparent coatings

Safe for people and the environment – based on natural mineral and plant-derived ingredients that are emission free

Made by Earth

The natural evolutionary process has shaped and created our environment, its unique solutions and structures providing us with an endless source of inspiration and learning. Sioo:x patented wood protection is the result of our having observed, imitated, and added to nature’s intelligent protection techniques.

Sioo:x essentially consists of a unique combination of silicon and potassium – two natural substances found all around us and which together create a natural shield similar to nature’s own wood protection.

Sioo:x Wood Protection is inspired by how nature protects itself using silicon. Trees and plants absorb silicic acid from the soil, which dissolves in water and is then transported in trunks and stalks, precipitating out in the organisms, and making them stronger.

This is the process that gives vitality to both aspens in Nordic forests and teak trees in the rainforest. And it’s the same silicon that makes straw and reeds strong and rigid. Silicon also preserves the wood. You can see this in trees with petrified wood, which can be found in many places around the world. The cellulose in these trees have been replaced by silicon, which has protected them against all types of weather for millions of years.

SIOO:X Australian Project Gallery

Application Notes

Cladding

Timber Cladding (+Battens) pre-treated with SiOO:X can be purchased from Britton Timbers who have industrial factory coating equipment. Britton Timbers and partners are aware of the need to achieve good penetration of the SiOO:X treatment into the timber and that textured surfaces are essential.

Our distributors and coating partners are able to process your timber with a factory application of SiOO:X Impregnation in compliance with Sioo application standards. Applying SiOO:X treatment to planned dressed surfaces is not recommended.

Whether you are a private customer with an individual project or a contractor with a large project, your treatment needs can be met. The advantages of factory treatment are significant. When a large quantity of timber needs to be treated to tight deadlines and to meet conformance requirements, factory treatment comes into its own.

Even more so when construction and assembly are taking place over the winter months and in difficult weather conditions.

Decking

Sioo:x precoated decking can be purchased from Britton Timbers who have industrial factory coating equipment.

Onsite or hand applied treatment works well if applied to professional standards, the timber must be prepared properly through Sioox prewash and sanding.

For availability and specialist advice please see our specialist stockists.

*Restoration. If you have existing timber that has been previously coated and you would like to discuss how to remove and coat with Sioox. Please contact us and we can advise you of the process or refer you to a trained and experienced contractor.

FAQ's

Our timber species are different to other timber species in the world. Give us a call and we can discuss our testing and case study on various species.

The performance of Sioo:x coatings will vary from one timber species to another and will not be suitable for some species at all. It is important to select an exterior timber with Class 1 or 2 durability.

Low shrinkage and stable species will ensure greater longevity and performance of Sioo:x, or any other coating system. Any timber species intended to be coated with Sioo:x should be tested and approved by Sioo:x, Abodo Wood or a Distributor for adequate performance of the coating on that particular species. Proven application on projects is also beneficial.

Water is the activating factor.

Once the SiOO:X impregnation system has been applied, when exposed to moisture the mineral silicate in the impregnated timber substrate begins to cure by reacting with atmospheric carbon. During this curing reaction a network of silica crystals starts to be formed and this process continues for up to three years. The result is that the timber surface is toughened and an even accelerated weathering takes place.

This is a permanent change.

The cure rate is timber species and temperature dependent and will proceed very slowly in cold exterior conditions.

Parts that are covered or which cannot be exposed to rain will take a more time before they are fully grey. They will get there. These parts can be soaked with water using a garden sprayed rubbed in with a soft brush to speed the crystallisation. Repeat several times.

Usually it takes 4-8 weeks for the parts that are exposed to rain to change colour.

Our product requires that it is exposed to rain and moisture to activate the silicon in the liquid. The formed silica networks are what make the surface a beautiful grey and velvety. This takes place over a period of about 4-8 weeks depending on the weather.

SiOO:X Impregnation forms a protective and dirt-repellent layer in the wood surface. When it is wet and dirt falls on the surface, a little green or black algae can grow on the surface. Black dots are usually dirt which can be brushed off. There is usually much less of this on SiOO:X treated wood. The wood is protected from algae penetration.

It should be understood that green algae and black algae can grow on almost anything, even metal and stone. When you use the SiOO:X Maintenance Wash, the algae very easily washes off the surface with a brush and hose. Avoid using a pressure washer. If you wash very heavily, you may need to add some SiOO:X Premium Surface Protector to reseal the surface. In severe cases of algae formation, stronger agents should be used to remove it. The SiOO:X Premium Wood Protector itself has a strong cleaning action and can be applied to remove severe cases of algae and staining. Rub/apply the Premium Wood Protector onto the affected area and leave to soak. Wipe away any sediment and leave to dry. Apply a coat of SiOO:X Premium Surface Protector to the cleaned area.

See: cleaning of extractives and black/grey spore

Sioox Accoya Ageing Sample
Sioox Spotted Gum Ageing Sample

Yes, SiOO:X is non-toxic and entirely environmentally friendly.

Up to 2 years for horizontal surfaces and up to 5-7 years for vertical surfaces.

For light surface damage apply the SiOO:X Premium Surface Protector locally. Where the integrity of the surface has been breached apply both the SiOO:X Premium Wood Protector and the SiOO:X PremiumSurface Protector locally. The surface will evenly grey again after a few months.

All species of timber will eventually weather when exposed to the elements so bear in mind that if leaving your timber cladding uncoated, the appearance will change over time from its original colour to a silver-grey tone. Weathering is a natural and healthy process and shouldn’t be confused with fungal decay, which can sometimes be seen in cladding which has been incorrectly installed.

Location, building design and species can all have an effect on how quickly and evenly timber cladding will weather. In areas of high rainfall some timber cladding installations can turn grey quite quickly, whilst in drier areas the process is likely to be slower. The form and shape of a building also influence the impact that wind-driven rain will have on it. For example, buildings without eaves tend to get wettest at the top, particularly at the outer corners, so this may result in these areas weathering more quickly than other parts of the wall.

If there are eaves, then uneven weathering can occur as rain will be unable to reach the areas under the eaves.

SiOO:X results in a beautifully even façade, with a consistently weathered appearance. It is available in Original (a clear coating) or in pigmented Light Grey and Mid Grey options.

A rapid curing process begins upon application; any initial patchiness will fade out over a period of 10-16 weeks, however, Light Grey and Mid Grey will give more immediate colour to the timber. After 2-3 years, the timber is fully cured and a final colour is reached.

The result is a consistent weathered tone, achieved years faster than with natural weathering.

Sioox Original Sioox Light Grey Sioox Mid Grey 0 months
Sioox Original Sioox Light Grey Sioox Mid Grey 15 months

Please Note

Images & videos are offered as a guide to colour and finish of Sioox transformation over time. Each species can react slightly different. The final outcome can vary depending on species. For more or other timbers please speak contact us email sioox@brittontimbers.com.au


End Grain Sealer

Sealing end grain of wood for longer life and stability.

Why Use

It is vital to treat all cut ends with an end grain sealer to prevent moisture ingress into timber. Any end cuts in cladding boards, deck boards and other trim need to be sealed at installation.

The prime reason for sealing wood end grain is because when exposed it absorbs moisture up to 250 times more rapidly than other wood surfaces. Unprotected end grain can lead to interior rot and discolouration adjacent to the cut end.

End-grain is particularly vulnerable to moisture, and early failure is often seen at joints and corners where the end- grain is exposed.

Timber’s natural movement means that joints tend to open up over time. When a gap opens, exposed and unprotected end-grain will absorb moisture much faster than the surrounding timber.

End Grain Sealer is designed to assist with better weathering of timber, by stopping excessive moisture ingress, hence providing longer life, reducing cracking, staining and timber movement.

Application

For joined, hidden and exposed end grain: Teknos, Zobel and Abodo

For maximum timber performance use on joined, hidden and exposed timber end grain.

For exposed visual appeal end grain: SIOO:X

Finish your project off to the best visual appeal, coat exposed timber end grain with SIOO:X end grain sealer to have the same weathered look as SIOO:X face coated timber.

Manufacturer Size Coverage Colour
Teknos 750 ml 12 M2 /Ltr Clear
Zobel 1 Ltr 12.5 M2/Ltr Clear
Zobel 2.5 Ltr 12.5 M2/Ltr Clear
Abodo 1 Ltr 6 M2/Ltr Clear & Black
Sioo:x Part 1 1 Ltr 8 M2/Ltr Weathered
Sioo:x Part 2 1 Ltr 8 M2/Ltr Weathered

Sioo:x is a two step process – this means you will need to coat the wood with one coats of Sioo:x Step 1 followed by one coat of Sioo:x Step 2.

Application

Quick drying and easy to apply end grain sealer

  • One coat application
  • Apply with brush
  • Ready to use, check viscosity, if necessary, can be thinned with water
  • Substrate must be dry and free of dust and grease
  • Moisture content of the wood < 15%
  • Do not process below 15 °C or more than 30 °C
  • Stir material before use; avoid inclusion of air
  • Drying Time at 20 °, can be worked over after 40 minutes.
  • Low temperature and high humidity retard drying.
  • Always ensure adequate temperature and air exchange.
  • Cleaning of the tools, immediately after use with water


Cutek

For the best timber protection possible you should coat all four sides and the end grains with Cutek Wood Preservative before timber is laid or erected.

Cutek

Cutek is a unique penetrating oil system designed to enhance the natural colour and grain of timber.

Cutek is sold as a clear oil which can be used to protect the wood from moisture and moisture related movement such as cupping, warping and splitting.

Cutek as a clear oil allows the wood to age gracefully into a beautiful silver patina on exposure to sunlight. However, if you would like to retain the natural freshly oiled colour of the timber you are working with you need to add a colourtone to the clear oil.

BRITTON Factory Coat – Cutek Clear Oil

It is recommend that for the best timber protection possible that you

  • coat all four sides and the end grains before timber is laid or erected
  • factory coating is available and applied to 4 sides, onsite coating should be applied to end grain
  • factory coating is a clear oil wet stacked, tint to be applied on site with additional coats
  • once laid/erected, it is recommend 2 further top coats with Cutek Wood Preservative either as a clear oil or with a colourtone mixed in to keep the freshly oiled look for longer, please refer to application information.

Colourtones available for onsite application.

*Please note: All colourtones displayed are two coats on Western Red Cedar, coloured finishes vary on different timber species

Here are some things to avoid when planning to coat timber with Cutek:

  • Wet wood, or wood with a high moisture content. Your wood should contain a maximum moisture content of 17%, as anything higher can significantly delay the drying process. If this happens, Cutek may sit on the surface and eventually go tacky without penetrating properly.
  • Too many coats too soon. The first application of Cutek needs to completely diffuse and dry before the next coat is applied.
  • Existing oil, stain or paint on the surface. Existing film coatings act as a barrier to Cutek’s penetration. Old coatings must be fully removed by sanding and/or chemical stripping prior to applying Cutek.
  • Cold weather. In cold weather, Cutek will become thicker and therefore too much oil is applied when coating in cooler climates. It helps to warm oil by placing in a sunny/warm spot before application to make is thinner and enhance penetration.

Achieving the best result from Cutek means allowing the oil to diffuse into the wood and dry fully between coats. It it’s not fully dried, excess oil will sit on the surface of the timber and eventually become tacky.

IMPORTANT: Two or three very thin coats of Cutek will be much more beneficial for your timber over the long term rather than applying one or two heavy coats of Cutek.

Once the timber pre-coated with Cutek has been laid/erected, you will need to follow the standard Cutek top coating procedure as outlined below.

Application Technique:

Step #1 – ProClean: Timber Restoration & Timber Preparation

*Please note: This step is not always necessary on raw timber but is highly recommended for best results, especially when coating denser timbers and timbers with a mill glaze.

Cutek ProClean counteracts the weathering process by eliminating years of discolouration and fungus from all species of timber. ProClean is exceptional at removing surface grime, fungus and stubborn stains. ProClean is also ideal to prepare new timber as it helps to remove the mill glaze and opens the grain to assist with Cutek’s deep penetration.

Before you begin, note the hazards and precautions on our website www.cutek.com.au and the can labelling, and ensure that you use the correct safety equipment as detailed in the Safety Data Sheet.

  • Apply undiluted ProClean to your timber liberally to pre-wetted timber with a brush, roller or lambswool applicator. ProClean will start to react in around 10 minutes, however, it does not need to be kept wet, so it can be left on your timber for up to 24 hours when severe staining or discolouration has occurred. Once the timber has brightened to a satisfactory level, thoroughly pressure wash all of the ProClean from the surface of the timber. IMPORTANT: Always do a small test patch on your timber before doing any large sections so you can ascertain how long you will need to leave ProClean on your timber for it to react.

Step #2 – Oiling with Cutek

Now that your timber has been prepared correctly it is ready to be oiled with 2 top coats of Cutek, inclusive of your desired colourtone choice (remember, if you do not use a colourtone then your timber will naturally silver over time). It is important to let the timber dry after it’s preparation and have a moisture content lower than 17%. If you are concerned about the moisture level, you can purchase a water moisture reader quite cheaply or alternatively you can wait 2-3 days to ensure that the timber has completely dried after it’s preparation.

Before you begin, note the hazards and precautions on our website www.cutek.com.au and the can labelling, and ensure that you use the correct safety equipment as detailed in the Safety Data Sheet.

  • Apply Cutek oil to dry timber with a lambswool applicator or brush. For your first coat, apply only a light coat of Cutek so that you can ascertain how long it will take for the coat to fully diffuse into the timber. Once you can rub your finger over the surface of the timber without any oily residue or colour appearing on your hand, you’re ready for your second coat. Apply a second coat and wait for this coat to fully diffuse into the timber. IMPORTANT: The time for Cutek to fully diffuse (dry) varies due to the denseness of various timber species and environmental factors. Always do a small test patch (preferably on an offcut of timber) to ascertain the curing time and the preferred colourtone finish.

IMPORTANT: Wood must feel completely dry and non-greasy before application of the second coat.

Future Maintenance

Timber is durable, sustainable and gives a great natural look, however, without maintenance it will deteriorate no matter what coating is applied. Depending on your timber’s exposure and the surrounding environmental factors, it will need one coat of Cutek (with a colourtone) as frequently as necessary to retain the natural beauty and colour of the timber. Vertical timbers may last longer than this as they generally are not exposed to as much UV as horizontal timbers. Before you recoat, you must give you timber a sufficient clean to keep mould, fungus, dirt and any stains from being stuck in between multiple coats of Cutek. Using a hose or a pressure washer by itself will not be sufficient, so you will need to give your timber a clean down with ProClean. Cutek ProClean counteracts the weathering process by eliminating years of discolouration and fungus from all species of timber. ProClean is exceptional at removing surface grime, fungus and stubborn stains.

  • Apply undiluted ProClean to your timber liberally to pre-wetted timber with a brush, roller or lambswool applicator. ProClean will start to react in around 10 minutes, however, it does not need to be kept wet so it can be left on your timber for up to 24 hours when severe staining or discolouration has occurred. Once the timber has brightened to a satisfactory level, thoroughly pressure wash all of the ProClean from the surface of the timber. IMPORTANT: Always do a small test patch on your timber before doing any large sections so you can ascertain how long you will need to leave ProClean on your timber for it to react.

Once you have cleaned your timber sufficiently with ProClean, you need to apply 1 further coat of Cutek for maintenance, inclusive of your desired colourtone choice (remember, if you do not use a colourtone then your timber will naturally silver over time). It is important to let the timber dry after it’s preparation and have a moisture content lower than 17%. If you are concerned about the moisture level, you can purchase a timber moisture reader quite cheaply or alternatively you can wait 2-3 days to ensure that the timber has completely dried after it’s preparation.

  • Apply Cutek oil with a lambswool applicator or brush. Apply a light coat and wait for this coat to fully diffuse into the timber. IMPORTANT: The time for Cutek to fully diffuse (dry) varies due to the denseness of various timber species and environmental factors. Always do a small test patch (preferably on an offcut of timber) to ascertain the curing time and the preferred colourtone finish.

For More Information visit

Cutek Australia

Resene Exterior Oil

Resene Woodsman Waterbourne

Resene Waterborne Woodsman is a waterborne woodstain matching the needs of timber to the desire to achieve the most natural appearance possible.

Designed for exterior timber in a wide range of colours.

Resene does not recommend clear stains on exterior timber as it does not provide sufficient protection for the timber against the weather.

Decorators will enjoy the quick and easy water clean up and the absence of the solvent fumes and VOCs associated with traditional solventborne stains.

Specialty Colours

For More Information visit

Resene Australia

Abodo Protector Oil

A water borne, penetrating timber finish that will nourish and protect external timbers.

Protector Water Borne uses the latest in water borne oil technology combining refined plant oils, UV protection, advanced water barrier composition and an enhanced fungicidal package for superior exterior performance.

Colours presented are in Protector Water Borne.

For More Information visit

Britton Timbers AbodoAbodo Australia

WOCA

High-quality products that protect, preserve and enhance the beauty of exterior wood whilst stimulating the wood and ensuring long-lasting durability.

Environmentally friendly coatings to for timber, including modified timbers such as ACCOYA.

For use with ACCOYA use Woca Primer prior to Woca Exterior Oil application, please refer to the attached instructions Woca Exterior Oil System – Accoya.

For More Information visit

WOCA Website