Wooden Gates – Give Them A Long Life With Your Final Coating
September 18, 2008 by admin
The final coats on your custom wood gate can both enhance its color as well as give your wooden gate extra protection. You want gates that not only look good but also give you long-lasting carefree maintenance.
The first step is to apply a sealer to the wood. The sealer permeates the wood pores so topcoats adhere to the surface and are not absorbed into the wood. Sealer selection is based on the type of topcoat to be applied. Polyesters, polyurethanes, and other synthetic finishes require specialized sealers.
Next, the topcoat is applied which helps to protect the wood from moisture and wear. To prevent the topcoat from yellowing with age, ultraviolet or UV inhibitors can be added.
Polyesters are the hardest type of topcoat. They are nearly 100% solid when applied and are almost as durable as high-pressure plastic laminates when cured. They also have good filling and leveling characteristics. Typically polyesters have a very glossy finish but can be found in matte finishes as well. The application of polyesters requires special equipment and skills.
Catalyzed polyurethanes are among the most durable finishes and are easier to apply than polyesters. Many consider them the first choice for commercial wood finishing.
Part of your final decision will depend on which area of the country you live, and how you intend to maintain the finish of your wood gates. Some people like a natural looking oiled finished that required regular maintenance and others want something that is easy and carefree in more inclement environments.
Make sure and consult your local professional on caring for your wood gate based upon the local weather conditions and environment.