FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Net-trol is a detergent type cleaner containing oxalic acid.  In its undiluted state, it has about 8% - 10% oxalic acid.

Net-trol isn't a stripper; therefore, it doesn't remove finishes in good condition.

No, Net-trol won't damage these surfaces. However, oxalic acid does can lighten surfaces and can lead to lighter patches.

Yes, except for pressure-treated wood (in this case, the wood's natural colour is lost during the treatment) or if the surface's discoloration is due to treatments or finishes used previously.

Absolutely not! This could cause toxic fumes to be released.

No. Net-trol won't damage plants especially since the product is very diluted when rinsed off.

Net-trol won't remove the wood's original colour; lighteners will bleach wood. Net-trol is biodegradable and is less aggressive on wood.

Yes, but clean the equipment well after use. It's best to apply the product at low pressure, leave it to work, then rinse off at a maximum of 60 bars. A garden sprayer will also work.

Yes. Apply Net-trol to the whole surface and the surrounding area. Rinse carefully. Once the surface is dry, treat the metal to prevent the rust from reappearing.

Yes. However, on vertical surfaces, the gel may lose its consistency and therefore its adhesion.

This product is labelled "harmful". It mustn't be swallowed and must be handled with protective gloves and safety glasses.

You can use NET-TROL.

Net-trol is not a stripper and will not remove any finish that is in sound condition.

Net-trol will not damage these surfaces, but since oxalic acid does have a bleaching effect, it may produce lighter areas on some surfaces.  One way to minimize this is to wet the adjacent surface before, during and after using the Net-trol.

Yes, except for pressure treated wood or if the discolouration is from some treatment or finish used in the past that permanently discoloured it.  In some cases, you may have to use a stronger solution and allow it to remain on the surface longer. Net-trol will not bring back a natural colour to pressure treated wood because its natural colours were lost when it was treated.

No. Use a 50/50 solution of bleach and water to kill the mildew. Follow with an application of Net-trol to neutralise the bleach, clean the wood and restore the natural colour

Net-trol is versatile enough to clean pressure treated wood, cedar, redwood, log homes, wood fences, aluminium and vinyl siding, fibreglass, stone, concrete, rust stains and more.

NO!!!!!!
The chlorine mixing with Net-trol creates toxic fumes

No. Net-trol is mild and will not harm plants or shrubbery, it may cause some "burn" marks on foliage.

These types of products are damaging to the cell structure of wood. They break down the binder (lignin), which holds the wood cells together creating a soft spongy surface that weathers more quickly and has an adverse effect on the appearance of natural finishes. Net-trol will not remove the natural colour of the wood while bleach and bleach-based deck cleaners will. Many of the less expensive deck cleaners are just a mix of bleach and detergent. Net-trol is not harmful to plants and it is not damaging to the wood.

Yes. The best way is to apply it at a low pressure using the Venturi injection tube, allow it to sit on the wood, then powerwash off with the pressure set at 500 to 700psi. Venturi injectors reduce the Net-trol to a 1:10 ratio, so it will not be as effective as it would when applied at a 1:4 mix. Rinse the equipment thoroughly after use. (Most seals are resistant to oxalic acid, especially in the diluted state)

It can, but you must be sure it is not over diluted in the mixing process. When using a garden sprayer it is best applied diluted, up to a maximum of 1:4 with water But be sure to rinse the equipment thoroughly after use.

Yes. Apply Net-trol to the entire surface around the nail stains, not just the stains; rinse thoroughly.  After the wood is dry, counter-sink and putty all nails to be sure stains will not return.

Net-trol can be used neat or diluted up to a maximum of 1:4 with clean water. Dilution is very much dependent on the condition of the surface you are cleaning and what you are trying to clean. The best way is to test a small area first using the maximum dilution (1:4) and work backwards from there until the desired result is achieved.

A litre, diluted 1:4 with water, will clean up to 25sqm's, undiluted a litre will clean up to 5sqm's. Coverage is affected by the condition, texture and porosity of the surface to be cleaned.

These are crystallised Oxalic Acid and in no way will affect the performance of Net-trol. If the contents have settled to crystals in the bottom and will not mix in easily - pour off the liquid and add a little hot water. Replace the cap, shake, then replace the poured off liquid and shake again before using.