Which impregnation is best for wood outdoors - let’s understand the topic

Wood as a material will never lose its relevance. But to maintain its beauty and durability, the surface must be periodically subjected to protective treatment.

In outdoor conditions, impregnation for outdoor use is used for this purpose. Thanks to it, the tree becomes resistant to bad weather, insects, and fire.

The main thing is to choose the impregnation that suits your design and is suitable for its purpose.

Why impregnate wood?

The material is popular in construction due to the following advantages:

• environmental friendliness;
• hygroscopicity;
• heat capacity;
• sound insulation;
• aesthetics (even without additional finishing);
• ease of processing and installation;
• affordable price.

However, a wooden structure that is constantly located on the street is destroyed over time under the influence of:

• ultraviolet rays;
• high humidity;
• fungus, mold;
• insects, bark beetles;
• precipitation;
• dust, dirt;
• sudden changes in temperature;
• damage;
• fire.

To prevent spoilage, an impregnation was developed.

It is needed to extend the service life of the material by forming a protective layer on the surface or penetrating deep into the structure.

The drugs are produced in a narrowly targeted manner, when some resist moisture, others – fungus (antiseptics), others – fire (fire retardants), there are decorative ones and more. Complex action impregnations are also available. They are more expensive, but more effective.

It is recommended to work with the product at a temperature of +10 degrees. It will absorb evenly and dry quickly.

In addition, impregnation can be an excellent base for painting. The paint applies well, giving the wood the desired color.

How to use

The wood is first cleaned and the resinous areas are scraped off. Remove mold using a scraper or wire brush. Then impregnation is applied - at least 2 layers.

Impregnations are applied in several ways:

• immerse the wood in the solution;
• use a brush or roller;
• applied with a spray.

The use of a sprayer increases the consumption of the product. Organic-based water repellents are not recommended to be applied by spray due to their toxicity.

What you need to know about wood species when choosing impregnation

Depending on the type, trees have different degrees of resistance to biodestruction:

1. The weakest. This includes linden, alder, and aspen.
2. Weak resistance. Solid elm, maple, birch and beech sapwood.
3. Medium resistant. These include fir, larch, and spruce.
4. Sustainable. Ash, pine, solid oak.

Based on absorbency, rocks are divided into 3 categories:

1. Difficult to impregnate. Ash, solid oak and beech, spruce.
2. Average. Linden, alder, aspen, solid pine.
3. Lungs. Beech, birch, pine sapwood.

It is important to note that when choosing raw materials for construction outside, the key factor remains the resistance of the rock to destruction, so you need to choose the most resistant ones.

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.

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.

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.

Classification of impregnations for external use by purpose

According to this parameter, funds are divided into several types. Let's look at the features of each of them in more detail.

Anti-darkening

A change in the color coating of raw materials is caused by infection with a fungus. This most often happens when wood is stored outdoors for a long time or in constant contact with the ground.

It is important to understand that budget protective impregnations have a limited service life - from 3 to 6 months. More expensive formulations continue to operate after 1–2 years.

The drug must be difficult to wash out or cannot be washed out with water. A striking example is the domestic impregnation brand “Senezh”.

Material already infected with fungus must first be bleached, that is, the cause of infection - fungus or mold - must be eliminated.

For treatment in outdoor conditions, it is allowed to use products containing chlorine. But a significant disadvantage of such compositions is that the impregnation not only burns out harmful microorganisms, but also destroys the wood structure.

Preparations with active oxygen have proven to be much more effective. They destroy fungus without harming the material and do not emit harmful substances.

From moisture and rotting

These are solutions with water-repellent properties. Penetrate deep into the structure. Prevents deformation and rotting of raw materials under the influence of moisture.

Their advantage is that after applying the composition the wood continues to breathe.

The service life of the protective layer is 1-3 years. After its expiration, it is recommended to recoat the material.

High quality impregnation will prevent the material from cracking as it dries. This is especially necessary on the end parts of log houses.

In addition, look for the presence of ultraviolet filters in the composition. Their absence will lead to a reduction in the effect of the product, and the treated surface will begin to darken.

For load-bearing structures

These include:

• rafter systems;
• beams, partitions;
• ceilings;
• walls;
• base;
• basements.

Photo: treatment of the rafter system with a spray bottle.
To reliably protect such elements, the preparation must have the following properties:

• antiseptic;
• fungicidal;
• do not wash off with water;
• increase fire resistance.

They are often colorless, water-based liquids.

The disadvantage of inexpensive impregnations is that they paint the surface a greenish tint. Expensive preparations do not change the shade of wood.

When using indoors, it is important to pay attention to the composition so that it does not contain toxic substances.

Decorative

Compared to others, the purpose of these stains is to add beauty to structures and products. With their help, it will be possible to perform high-quality imitation of noble breeds.

Most acrylic-based products are environmentally friendly. They make the surface elastic, waterproof, add shine, protect the surface from ultraviolet rays, and at the same time act as an antiseptic. They have a wide range of colors.

Frost-resistant

It is recommended to purchase for external wood processing in the northern regions of the country. Withstands air temperatures down to –40 degrees.

Can be applied in the cold without loss of working properties. They tolerate repeated freezing and thawing normally.

Sun protection

They also act as antiseptics. They contain a filter against ultraviolet rays, which serves as reliable protection for the tree. Bright colors do not fade in the sun or fade over time. The surface does not crack due to temperature changes.

Article: how to build a pergola from wood

Fire retardants

This is the name given to the preparations that make the raw material highly flammable. Prevents combustion in case of fire.

The most effective products are those that combine fire and bioprotection. Penetrate deeply into the structure or form a film. They may change the color of the coating, but not the texture of the wood.

When purchasing fire retardants, check for quality certificates and fire safety reports.

Making your own product

This ancient recipe has been used for centuries. You can cook it yourself from available products. The impregnation is environmentally friendly, emphasizes the wood texture well, and protects against moisture due to the content of vegetable fats and wax.

What water-repellent impregnation would you use?

PurchasedHomemade

To prepare the product you will need the following ingredients:

• linseed oil - 0.5 l;
• beeswax - 50 g;
• a slice of pine rosin the size of a quail egg.

Step-by-step instructions for preparing the impregnation:

1. Oil is poured into a pan that is no longer used for cooking.
2. Grind the wax using a grater or a knife.
3. Place the pan on the stove, add wax, and add rosin.
4. Turn on minimal heat.
5. Boil the oil solution, stirring constantly until the wax is almost completely dissolved.
6. Turn off the fire.

Homemade water repellent is ready.

As a rule, home remedies are less effective than factory-made drugs. And the final cost of the “grandfather’s funds” may turn out to be higher. It’s a personal matter for everyone which option of water repellent to choose. But even the simplest impregnation will in any case extend the life of a wooden house and finishing made from this material.

Famous manufacturers

Below is a list of manufacturing companies whose products are in greatest demand.

Belinka

Country of origin: Slovenia.

Engaged in the production of impregnations for the protection and decoration of wood. This:

• transparent antiseptics;
• penetrating primers;
• azure multilayer impregnation with the addition of wax;
• azure decorative impregnations;
• paints.

Belinka has official representative offices throughout Russia.

Aquatex

A Russian company that produces several types of combined impregnation compositions:

• “Aquatex Extra” - based on wax, oil;
• “Aquatex primer antiseptic” is a non-washable antiseptic;
• "Aquatex" - decorative with bioprotection and others.

Each contains an ultraviolet filter.

Aquatex does not produce products with biopyrene protection.

Tikkurila

The Finnish concern produces many series of paint and varnish products. Products with antiseptic protection, against insects, ultraviolet radiation. They have an environmentally friendly composition. Some antiseptics can be tinted.

Senezh

Russian trademark.

Specialization - production of impregnations for processing wood and decking boards.

The list of products includes:

• biopyrenes;
• preservative solutions;
• antiseptics;
• decorative;
• protective compounds.

There are tinted solutions. The price is affordable.

NEOMID

Russian manufacturing company.

The products are considered one of the best on our market for protecting wood and decking boards from fire and moisture.

On average, antiseptic protection lasts 10 years, and against fire – 7 years.

To control the quality of processing, a tinting pigment is included.

Can be used in residential buildings, bathhouses, gazebos, summer kitchens.

Top 3 fire-retardant antiseptics

Neomid 450

The domestic company Expertecology produces products under this brand.

NEOMID 450 is considered the best fire retardant for working with wood. Provides 1st and 2nd fire protection groups in accordance with GOST 16363-98.

Important advantages of the product:

1. The service life of fire protection when applied in one layer reaches 7 years.
2. The validity period of bioprotection against mold, mildew, and insects is up to 10 years.
3. There are no toxic substances in the composition, so the drug can be used indoors.
4. Sold as a clear, red liquid.
5. After processing, the wood can be painted.
6. Sold ready to apply. No need to dilute.
7. There are no restrictions on application methods or tools.

Fire and bioprotection NEOMID 450
Thanks to this product, wood becomes difficult to ignite.

Excellent for processing:

• rafter systems;
• timber, beams;
• ceilings, logs;
• walls;
• window and door blocks.

Available in plastic canisters of 10 and 30 kg. Price for 10 kg – 1200‒1350 rub.

Senezh Ognebio Prof

Produced in Russia. The quality is not inferior to the previous type.

SENEZH OGNEBIO PROF

Often used for treating boiler rooms. Makes raw materials resistant to fire and moisture. Prevents the formation of mold, blue stains, and damage by bark beetles. Not afraid of temperature changes.

Preserves the original color of the raw material. The mineral composition is quickly absorbed, giving the surface a glossy shine. Color – red, less often pink.

The service life of bioprotection is 20 years. Can be applied in any way, including soaking. Without smell.

The downside is that it costs a lot of money.

Sold in plastic containers of 6, 12, 23 kg.

Price for 5 l - 650 rub.

Tips for choosing

When purchasing, we recommend paying attention to the following points:

1. Purpose and place of use. Indoors, it is worth taking environmentally friendly water-based formulations with natural oils. They are produced in the form of a concentrate. There are no special restrictions for outdoor work.
2. Availability of quality certificates. Without them, the likelihood of purchasing an effective product is minimal.
3. Determine the reason for processing. There are narrowly targeted impregnations on sale that protect only from moisture, insects or fire. The optimal purchase would be a complex drug that combines several properties at once.
4. If you want your product to look beautiful, take time to choose the color. Check to see if the product can be tinted.
5. Take the drug with a reserve, since concentrates from different batches may differ in tone.
6. You should not buy impregnation in the markets. The conditions for storing and transporting goods there are practically not observed. There is a high risk of purchasing a fake.
7. Study the instructions for use, namely the service life of the coating. Most products retain their properties for no more than 3-5 years. Inflated figures are a marketing ploy.
8. Don't forget about application methods. There are impregnations that are used only by soaking the wood.
9. Don't forget to wear a respirator while working.

For outdoor use, it is recommended to use universal, complex action products that simultaneously resist bad weather, insects and fire.

Question answer

What wood impregnation can be used in the bedroom?

It all depends on what protective properties you want to achieve. For the bedroom, you can use water- or oil-based impregnations. They are completely safe for health. In addition, oil solutions have good decorative properties.

How do you know when it’s time to update your impregnation?

This can be understood by the appearance of the surface: the protective film will begin to crack, peel, and move away from the base. In addition, each can of impregnation indicates its protection period.

How to apply impregnation to the surface?

It all depends on the type of impregnation and its composition. In most cases, solutions can be applied with a regular brush, spray gun or roller. The exception is salt impregnations. The product must be soaked in them.

Can impregnations for outdoor use be used indoors?

In most cases, impregnations for outdoor use have a more aggressive composition and toxicity. The use of such solutions inside residential premises is unacceptable. However, you can choose a universal composition that is suitable for use both inside and outside the home.

What types of wood products can be treated with impregnations?

Impregnations can be used to protect any wooden surfaces: walls, ceilings, railings, furniture, picture frames, etc.

Preventing fire

Another enemy of wood is fire, which can completely destroy it. You can protect a tree from flames only temporarily if you apply so-called fire retardants to it.

For example, the following compositions are popular:

• Barkis;
• Johnstones;
• Valtti;
• Aidol.

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.

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.

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.