Review of the best wood impregnations for 2022

Updated: 03/12/2021 15:14:28

Expert: Andrey Nikolaevich Kuznetsov

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Wood is a popular building material that is widely used in Russia. To increase the lifespan of wood, it must be carefully cared for. Special impregnations help protect wooden structures from negative atmospheric influences, rotting, the appearance of fungus, mold and insects. In addition, some compositions reduce the flammability of the material, making it fireproof. The domestic market offers products from different manufacturers, each of them praises its own antiseptic. Advice from our experts will help you avoid making mistakes when choosing a composition.

Is processing necessary and what are its advantages?

Applying a special coating helps to significantly reduce the negative impact of the environment on wooden products. It is able to withstand such phenomena as:

high humidity;
temperature changes;
development and activity of harmful bacteria;
direct contact with open flame.

As a result of such an enterprise, the performance characteristics of wood are significantly increased, which prolongs the service life of the products, as well as their aesthetic qualities. The structure of this substance should be selected taking into account the current operation of the structure and the principle of its design.

Organic. These compounds are able to penetrate deeply and are moisture resistant. But they have such a disadvantage as a strong unpleasant odor. Which is why they cannot be used in the bedroom.
Aquatic. The option is preferable for residential premises and has the following characteristics:

no chemical smell;
harmless, suitable for interior decoration;
dries almost immediately and does not require base preparation.

The main disadvantage of this consistency is that it is not immediately absorbed, which is why it is rarely used in areas of contact with moisture. The described texture does not have a coloring effect, and therefore colored prototypes are quite rare among them.

The formula only adds the desired shade, emphasizing the natural grain of the wood. And since exquisite wood is quite expensive, using impregnation with pigment will help you achieve a noble effect at less cost. Light types of wood easily take on dark colors, which gives the products a more noble appearance. White or gray impregnations, husky color or with a green tint will look interesting.

About quantity and correct application

But not all materials need additional protection; this fact is determined by the type of wood and the period between its processing and when it fell into the hands of the master. For example, there are a lot of exotic types of wood with a very dense texture, which already have tanning and antiseptic properties that last up to 10-12 years. In this case, impregnation can only be preventive or completely excluded. But such mixtures are quite decent, which is why most of the wooden products are represented by simple budget analogues. This is where the need for a special coating arises.

Impact speed	Tree type
Wood with a fast absorbing structure	Scots pine, ash, beech, birch.
Average	Cedar, hornbeam, European larch, alder, maple, linden, aspen.
Difficult to soak	Spruce, ash, oak, elm, birch, beech, fir, common and Siberian larches.

The functionality of the antiseptic and protective coating is greatly simplified when innovative nutrients with enhanced penetration biocides are used. As a rule, popular models have a gel texture, making them quick and easy to apply using conventional methods. Analogues with bioprotection can be applied in 1 layer. If the boards are not pre-planed, you will need to increase the consumption by 1.6 times.

What are they and their description

Impregnations for external work are distributed according to the method of exposure.

From darkening. It is used from the moment the tree is cut down and cleaned. Protects texture from harmful bacteria that cause darkening. The quality of impregnation is valid for 3-6 months, but there are compositions with a guarantee of up to 8 months.
Remedy for moisture and rot. Such mixtures prevent the decomposition of wood due to loss of liquid, however, without interrupting air exchange, thereby preserving the basic qualities of the material.
Non-washable - a special formula for load-bearing wooden structures. Such consistencies are able to penetrate into the structure, strengthening the main supports. The substance often changes the color of the log itself, but guarantees its longevity and the quality of the latter. Unlike antiseptic analogues, they are not washed out.
Fire substance. It is used in places with a high risk of fire, such as roofing or floor partitions.
With a decorative function. It is used at the final stage of work, when the above-mentioned compounds have already been applied. The main purpose of such a structure is to protect natural textures from sunlight, provide antiseptic functionality and create an aesthetic appearance. Such impregnations come in different shades and do not change the texture of the wood.

But according to the degree of solubility you can find the following types:

aquatic (VR);
requiring chemical substrates (L);
interacting only with petroleum products and oils (M).

Kinds

Water-repellent impregnations are also called gyrophobic agents. In their pure form they are rarely found. Depending on additional properties, they come in several types.

Fire retardant

Such products resist not only moisture, but also fire, and reduce the flammability of building and finishing materials. They contain fire retardants. Then the flame in case of fire spreads much slower.

Impregnations with fire retardants do not make the material non-flammable, but only prolong the combustion time.

With priming properties

Such impregnations can also be used as a primer. They not only protect the material from moisture penetration, but also improve adhesion to the finishing coating and reduce the consumption of the latter.

From rot and mold

The peculiarity of these products is their maximum ability to drive away moisture. They also include fungicidal drugs that suppress the growth of mold.

Color impregnations

These products contain pigmentation. They tint the wood and make it more decorative, emphasizing the structure.

Expert opinion

Levin Dmitry Konstantinovich

If the timber or board has a light blue or gray-green tint when purchased, then it has already been treated with moisture impregnations. But just in case, you need to clarify this point with the seller and ask to show certificates for the products.

Tips on how to choose impregnation

Base. In the assortment you can find options with a variety of bases. Experts find the most popular substances with antiseptic properties and an aqueous substrate. According to buyers, acrylic compounds, which have a water-repellent effect and are environmentally friendly, are relevant in price.
An environmental indicator is something that you should pay special attention to if internal processing is to be done. Water-based preparations will be relevant here.
Expenses. Also an important selection criterion; often inexperienced repairmen pay more attention to cost, without taking into account the consumption of the texture itself. Basically, these parameters are indicated on the packaging, based on absolutely ideal operating conditions. Which may not correspond to reality. When the reliability of the coating is evident only when applying 1-2 layers, the costs are expected to be less significant than repeated processing using cheaper substances.
Purpose.

Impregnation is often in demand for its antiseptic properties that prevent the development of microorganisms. This structure is relevant when building a bathhouse or home sauna. And the presence of fire retardants in the consistency prevents the material used from catching fire, which is also welcome when treating heating rooms.
While water-repellent qualities or resistance to sub-zero temperatures are typical for external impregnations. An equally significant role in the selection is played by SPF filters that prevent discoloration of textures.
For those who want to emphasize the natural beauty of wood, it is better to prefer a decorative analogue with a glaze (paintable) coating.

Final Recommendation

By the way, last year, an old friend of mine bought impregnations for his new home from a dealer. The first thing he liked was communicating with the consultant. According to a friend, he understands very well when it comes to choosing impregnating agents for wooden structures. And second: the price of the product turned out to be quite acceptable, which is important for many buyers.

This is not an advertisement - just a consultation, which is always useful. For residents of Moscow and the Moscow region, I recommend this company for the sale of Neomid impregnations. Moreover, the company is specialized, sells retail at wholesale prices and has been on the market of high-quality wood protection products for several years.

That's all for now. I hope this was informative? If yes, then recommend the article to your friends and subscribe to the news. I wish you all good luck, health and peaceful skies. Bye!

Wisdom Quote: What is not true cannot be great.

Rating of quality universal foundations

Aquatex

The offer from the Russian manufacturer of the Extra series is notable for its complex action combined with reasonable cost and decorative effect. The capabilities of the composition prevent infection of wood by various fungi and mold bacteria, preventing the material from changing color under the influence of external factors. The antiseptic makes it possible to adjust the usual texture to the noble panels. Another equally valuable property is noteworthy: this impregnation can be used to saturate not only completely new materials, but also previously used, sanded boards.

wood protection Aquatex

Advantages:

Pleasant appearance of the product after use;
wide range of effects;
does not disturb the wood texture;
easy to apply;
natural ingredients;
has a large color palette.

Flaws:

Strong smell;
drying time.

Type of substance	contains wax
Volume	3 l
Maximum flow	1l per 5 sq. m
Drying period	Day
Absorbency	Average
What is the price	1420 ₽

Veres

The Classic Lazura No 1 series is one of the best colorless wood impregnations, it is ideal for treating walls or benches in a sauna, helping to preserve the nature of the wood texture. The consistency is usually contained in metal containers of different sizes. This solution allows you to choose the right quantity, taking into account the upcoming repair. The impregnation has a matte decorative and protective base, which is ideal for treating fresh and sanded wooden panels from the previous layer. It will also suit:

for covering material;
fences;
entrance and window jambs;
including products made from chipboard, plywood or veneer.

wood protection Veres

Advantages:

The coating is quite thin-layered and has a glazing effect that will highlight and capture the natural beauty of the wood;
The connection protects against parasites and moisture without disturbing the original panel pattern;
You can do without regrinding;
prevents mold formation;
has a pleasant color shade;
it is good to use as an external covering;
there is an SPF filter;
completely ready for use;
no smudges appear when working with it;
can be easily applied and distributed with a roller or brush;
does not crack when drying;
protective functions are maintained for 8 years;
the presence of alkyd resin adds viscosity to the base;
the composition contains linseed oil to soften the wood;
economical consumption;
good grip on the surface.

Flaws:

To achieve the desired effect 100%, a colorless primer is required;
takes a long time to dry;
texture has a negative effect on the respiratory tract;
there is a smell.

Type of substance	Organic, water repellent
Volume	0.9
Maximum flow	85 ml per sq. m
Drying period	24 hours
Absorbency	Deep
What is the price	682 ₽

Dufatex aqua

An option with disinfecting properties, colorless and distinguished by environmental performance. Such qualities make it possible to use it even for painting hives with their hypersensitive inhabitants. The texture is water-based, which makes it suitable for outdoor and indoor use. The impregnation is in practical cans with a convenient side; thanks to this solution, the lid fits more tightly to the base, which allows you to store the remaining substance without causing problems when opening it later.

wood protection Dufatex aqua

Advantages:

There is an ultraviolet filter;
does not create splashes;
interacts with all types of wood;
environmental friendliness indicators, has a German quality certificate;
recommended for interior work in kindergartens and schools;
does not prevent the tree from breathing;
the texture creates a pleasant silky gloss;
does not leave streaks when working with a brush;
copes well with temperature changes;
doesn't smell.

Flaws:

Cannot be used for flooring;
needs updating after a couple of years;
for a good effect, 2 layers are required with an interval of 14 hours;
you can work only at a temperature not lower than +7;
needs dilution.

Type of substance	Glaze/semi-gloss
Volume	5 liters
Maximum flow	1 liter per 12 sq. m
Drying period	6 hours
Absorbency	Average
What is the price	2005 ₽

Top best models for fire protection

Axton I-Igr

One of the most popular impregnations for 2022 for load-bearing elements, doors or windows. If a fire occurs, the treated structure will prevent the fire from spreading quickly. The coating is in translucent plastic canisters with a volume of 5 - 10 liters; this packaging option makes it easier to draw up repair estimates.

wood protection Axton I-Igr

Advantages:

Protects panels from the influence of harmful microorganisms;
suitable for work at sub-zero temperatures down to -15;
easy to apply;
remains suitable for 5 years;
can be used for different types of wood;
sealed lid;
does not require preliminary dilution;
Suitable for both exterior and interior decoration.

Flaws:

Gives off a yellowish tint, which spoils the appearance of the tree;
if water gets into the impregnation, greenish spots may appear;
The container holder is inconvenient for transportation;
takes a long time to dry.

Type of substance	water base
Volume	10 l
Maximum flow	1 liter per square
Drying period	6 hours
Absorbency	Day
What is the price	445 ₽

NEOMID 450

According to numerous reviews from both experts and users, this impregnation is one of the best means of protecting wooden structures from fire. In addition to its main task, the formula protects the surface from rotting and mold. This mixture does not lose its function for 7 years of protection from fire and 10 from biological factors.

wood protection NEOMID 450

Advantages:

The substance is used both internally and externally;
double barrier against biological damage and fire;
It is better to choose a completely colorless type of coating or with a tint;
ease of use;
economical consumption;
you can use a spray gun;
good warranty period.

Flaws:

Takes a long time to dry;
the coloring pigment gives a bright crimson hue;
a bit expensive

Type of substance	Combined
Volume	5 kg
Maximum flow	250 grams per 1 sq. m
Drying period	Almost a day and a half
Absorbency	High
What is the price	1060 ₽

Senezh Ognebio Prof

A structure that combines several options for protecting wooden panels. The treated board is more difficult to ignite, the base is not affected by the process of rotting, the proliferation of bacteria and it becomes uninteresting to insects. The coating makes the panels resistant to water and temperature changes. However, when working, you should avoid direct contact with the ground.

protection for wood Senezh Ognebio Prof

Advantages:

No suffocating smell;
ease of use;
wide range of protective properties;
has a healing effect;
convenient price.

Flaws:

High costs;
Once dry, the coating may change color.

Type of substance	Water soluble
Volume	12 kg
Maximum flow	kg per 3.5 sq.m
Drying period	12 hours
Absorbency	High
What is the price	From 1,800 ₽

What's the point of protecting a tree?

Despite the mechanical properties of wood, under the influence of external factors it loses its properties and is destroyed. Parts of the external part of the house are most susceptible to this, so treatment of such parts is extremely necessary, otherwise the tree will very quickly lose not only its attractive appearance, but also its functionality.

As for fire protection, it has been scientifically proven that treated elements burn much harder, and if the fire is not large, then they will only smolder.

The best options resistant to temperature changes

Tikkurila Valtti Log

The offer from a well-known Finnish manufacturer is not susceptible to atmospheric changes and is suitable even for solid log facades or bathhouses. The Valtti Log coating does not form a visible film on the surface, thereby emphasizing the natural aesthetics of the material. This impregnation has a special composition that allows the components to penetrate deep into the wood fibers and provide long-term and stable protection of the surface from external damage.

wood protection Tikkurila Valtti Log

Advantages:

Completely ready to use;
evenly distributed;
It is used quite economically;
optimal for outdoor work;
reliable clasp;
convenient handle on the container;
you can choose the shade;
does not lose properties for 5 years.

Flaws:

A little expensive.

Type of substance	Solvent based
Volume	9 l
Maximum flow	4 ml per sq. m
Drying period	12 hours
Absorbency	good
What is the price	4090 ₽

Pinotex Natural

A consistency that has been specially developed to make wood buildings weather resistant. The structure has absolute transparency, which allows it to highlight the naturalness of the material. Meanwhile, its antiseptic properties are not lost even after 3 years.

wood protection Pinotex Natural

Advantages:

Impregnation is suitable: for work in a bath complex;
installation of a fence or gazebo.
special substances that interfere with the activity of microbes;
presence of SPF filters;
moisture resistance;
colorless composition;
does not change under the influence of ultraviolet radiation.

Flaws:

There is a smell;
too thick;
leaves streaks when applied with a brush.

Type of substance	Biocidal
Volume	2.7 l
Maximum flow	1l per 16 sq. m
Drying period	12 h
Absorbency	good
What is the price	from 1900 ₽

Extreme Climate

The best option for external and internal finishing of new and used wooden blocks. They are used:

for the facade of the house;
log buildings;
products from profiled timber and much more.

The drug combines perfectly with previously applied impregnations, such as conventional water-based stain, maintaining its technical characteristics for 12 years.

wood protection Extreme Climate

Advantages:

There is an SPF filter;
the saturation of the shade is not lost over time;
moisture resistance;
insensitive to atmospheric phenomena;
interacts well with other water-based or alkyd-based antiseptics;
dries quickly;
highlights the wood texture;
has a semi-gloss sheen;
can withstand temperatures from -40 to +60.

Flaws:

Hard to wash off;
stains when working with a brush.

Type of substance	Gel form
Volume	0.9l
Maximum flow	1 l/12 m2
Drying period	12 hours
Absorbency	Deep
What is the price	From 940 ₽

New products from the best manufacturers with water-repellent properties

Aquatex Scandi

An antiseptic model with active decorative functions that has already gained popularity. The main quality of the impregnation was its universal coverage against fungus and moisture. The formula helps renew already used alkyd or acrylic surfaces, even dark shades.

wood protection Aquatex Scandi

Advantages:

There is an SPF filter;
Suitable for indoor and outdoor use;
performed well when interacting with OSB, fiberboard, chipboard plywood, etc.;
withstands climate changes from -50 to +50;
contains natural wax;
the presence of active antiseptic components of a new generation;
not afraid of wet cleaning using detergents;
does not crack;
good covering ability;
maintains the breathable properties of the material;
environmental friendliness.

Flaws:

Do not apply to a damp surface;
Only use a brush with artificial bristles.

Type of substance	Acrylic
Volume	9 l
Maximum flow	10 ml per sq. m
Drying period	2 hours
Absorbency	4-6 days
What is the price	4380 ₽

NEOMID 430 Eco

The active substances of this composition form a strong connection with the wood texture, due to which they do not evaporate over time and do not lose their protective properties for 35 years, even in difficult conditions. The coating can also be widely used for greenhouses; it will reliably protect the structure:

from mold spores,
moss,
various types of vegetation,
wood-boring beetles.

wood protection NEOMID 430 Eco

Advantages:

Average price;
good operating guarantees;
long service life
environmental friendliness;
does not wash out over time.

Flaws:

When used, it gives the wood a greenish tint;
Strong smell.

Type of substance	Water soluble
Volume	5 kg
Maximum flow	400 grams per sq. m
Drying period	48 hours
Absorbency	Deep
What is the price	From 996 ₽

Tikkurila Supi Arctic

The components of this antiseptic create a special protective coating on the wood, which can then be tinted. This feature allows the composition to be used in any room, regardless of the degree of humidity in the room. It is also suitable for a bath or mini-sauna, as it is impervious to moisture or dirt. The base perfectly preserves the natural wood shade and maintains the integrity of the material.

wood protection Tikkurila Supi Arctic

Advantages:

High degree of protection;
good resistance to external factors;
moisture resistance;
efficiency;
no smell;
ease of application;
beautiful pearlescent shade;
There is a possibility for tinting (giving a different color).

Flaws:

High price.

Type of substance	Biocidal, water-repellent
Volume	2.7 l
Maximum flow	ml per 12 sq. m
Drying period	48 h
Absorbency	High
What is the price	3113 ₽

Typical wood damage

The need to impregnate wood, that is, impregnate it with preparations that impart appropriate properties and protective properties to extend its service life, is beyond doubt.

This material is highly susceptible to the harmful effects of atmospheric and biological factors, such as:

Rain and snow - water penetrating into it causes it to swell and shrink, which leads to a weakening of its structure;
Fungi - appear in wood whose moisture content exceeds 40%. They cause a number of diseases. The blue stain that softwood is prone to shows up as gray-black stains that reduce the aesthetics of the wood.
Brown algae, which affects both coniferous and deciduous trees, can further reduce its vigor. Rotting leads to complete decomposition of wood. In turn, mold that affects a very wet wood surface is primarily dangerous to people;

UV Radiation - Intense sunlight causes discoloration and increases surface roughness, and also breaks down the lignin that binds wood cells together. As a result, this building material dries out and cracks.

However, it should be remembered that lack of sun is also a disadvantage. This is clearly visible on darkened walls and fences on the north side, where mosses, algae and lichens appear, which do not look aesthetically pleasing;

Insects - feed on both wet and dry wood. The passages they cut out worsen the physical properties of this raw material.

Another argument in favor of wood impregnation is fire safety considerations. Some impregnations may impede ignition or limit the spread of flame.

Rating of analogues with decorating functions

Luxens

An antiseptic with a transformative effect from the specified brand will help to highlight a new building or embellish an existing one. The coating will protect the material used from damaging factors, including high humidity. Contained in metal containers from 1 to 10 liters.

wood protection Luxens

Advantages:

Prevents the damage and vital activity of harmful spores and insects;
inhibits the process of decay;
optimal for different types of wood;
has a glazing effect;
you can choose the color;
retains its qualities for 4 years;
inexpensive.

Flaws:

The brush applies unevenly;
for external use only;
creates smudges;
there is a smell.

Type of substance	Solvent based
Volume	2.5 l
Maximum flow	10-12 for a planed surface, otherwise 5-21 ml per square meter.
Drying period	4 hours
Absorbency	8 hours
What is the price	557 ₽

Antiseptic Ecohouse

The protective and decorative formula will help give the product a more expensive and sophisticated look. It has a resin texture with a semi-matte finish. Stored in tin cans of 9-10 liters. In addition to decorative properties, it also copes with protecting the material used from environmental influences, decay or the manifestation of harmful microorganisms.

protection for wood Antiseptic Ecodom

Advantages:

Availability of a UV filter;
good hiding power;
economical;
large palette;
looks beautiful;
affordable price.

Flaws:

There is a smell.

Type of substance	Alkyd based
Volume	9 l
Maximum flow	12 ml per sq. m
Drying period	Day
Absorbency	Average
What is the price	2238 ₽

TEXTUROLE

This composition is based on advanced alkyd and mineral compounds. They allow you not only to protect the tree from negative influences, but also successfully fulfill a decorative purpose, while maintaining the breathable qualities of the wood. The composition has as many as 9 color shades, as well as a transparent base for tinting.

wood protection TEXTUROL

Advantages:

Natural ingredients;
wide palette;
interacts with drying oil;
light-resistant pigments using UV Protect technology with a UV filter;
contains wax;
easy to apply;
does not create splashes or smudges;
relevant for external and internal work;
frost resistance.

Flaws:

Short shelf life - 5 years.

Type of substance	With biocides
Volume	1 l
Maximum flow	20 ml/sq.
Drying period	24 hours
Absorbency	Day
What is the price	From 808 ₽

Bottom line

Having compared the above readings and calculated the financial costs, we can come to the conclusion that the leading positions in the ranking are confidently occupied by well-known and time-tested compositions from such manufacturers as:

Tikkurila;
Ecohouse;
Senezh;
Aquatex.

But it is impossible to determine exactly which company’s offer is better, since development does not stop, delighting with more and more advanced and universal formulations from:

Dufatex aqua;
NEOMID;
Pinotex;
Extreme Climate.

Among the options presented for 2022 you can find equally high-quality inexpensive analogues:

Luxens;
Veres;
Axton I-Igr;
TEXTUREOL.

Therefore, if you take into account the above recommendations and show a little patience, there is a high probability of choosing an excellent multifunctional impregnation for your home. A wide range of all kinds of protective equipment can be found in the construction market or bought at any supermarket where there is a specialized department. However, although pre-formulated treatment compounds work flawlessly, their price is often quite high. Therefore, most zealous owners decide to create impregnation with their own hands. A homemade base is quite inexpensive, and you can find a suitable recipe for making it with detailed video instructions on how to make it yourself on any Internet resource. For those who do not want to go shopping themselves, you can order impregnation online and have it delivered to your location. Now it is fashionable and more profitable to shop in an online store.