FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Tropitech?
- Why should the first coat be applied to wet wood?
- What is the best way to keep the wood wet?
- Do I need to remove the excess water that collects in the grooves of ribbed decking?
- Why should the wood be treated with a bleach and water solution prior to applying the Tropitech?
- Can I use Net-trol or other acid based cleaners to prepare the surface?
- How many coats of Tropitech should be applied?
- How soon can subsequent coats be applied?
- How often do I need to maintain Tropitech?
- Can Tropitech be applied over an existing stain
- When can I apply Tropitech?
- How can Tropitech be applied?
- How soon can the Deck be used after applying Tropitech?
- My Tropitech finish has become severely damaged. How do I repair it?
What is Tropitech?
Tropitech is a semi-transparent exterior acrylic finish for decks, cladding, fencing and garden furniture. It contains fungicides to protect against mildew as well as powerful UV screeners that filter out the suns harmful ultra-violet rays. Tropitech will protect and beautify the wood for 3-5 years.
Why should the first coat be applied to wet wood?
It is important that the first coat penetrates into the wood. This is achieved by applying the Tropitech to a wet surface. As the water dries so the Tropitech is drawn into the wood ensuring a good strong adhesion is achieved between the wood and Tropitech. If the first coat is not applied to a wet surface then premature failure of the product may occur.
What is the best way to keep the wood wet?
Use a garden hose with an attachment that will give you a mist spray or use a garden sprayer.
Do I need to remove the excess water that collects in the grooves of ribbed decking?
Experience has shown us that leaving the water in the grooves can thin the first coat leading to insufficient material being applied on the first application and subsequently affecting the coatings performance. The trick is to remove the excess water from 2/3 boards at a time, using a stiff bristle brush, just prior to applying the Tropitech. This ensures that the timber is not too wet to accept the Tropitech and does not thin the finish.
Why should the wood be treated with a bleach and water solution prior to applying the Tropitech?
Treating the wood with a solution of bleach and water removes weathering and kills any mildew that may be present, in short it is sterilising the wood. Also if the surface is not sufficiently rinsed then any of the bleach/ water solution left in the wood will leave a slightly alkaline surface, which will not affect the finish.
Note: This is NOT an excuse for failing to rinse the wood surface properly. Rinse with plenty of fresh water paying particular attention to the ends of boards, stringers and railings before applying Tropitech.
Can I use Net-trol or other acid based cleaners to prepare the surface?
No. These products will leave an acid surface and it is important that the wood surface is alkaline prior to applying Tropitech, which is why it is treated with a bleach/water solution. If it is absolutely necessary to use Net-trol or any other acid based product in order to clean the timber, then it must be treated with a 1:2 bleach: water solution afterwards, rinsed thoroughly and whilst still wet apply the first coat of Tropitech.
How many coats of Tropitech should be applied?
Normally 2 coats are sufficient. However a third coat may be applied to areas subject to heavy traffic. Ensure the second coat is touch dry before applying the third coat.
How soon can subsequent coats be applied?
As soon as the first is touch dry. Normally this is 1-2 hours depending on the drying conditions.
How often do I need to maintain Tropitech?
This depends on weather and usage but normally as soon as the finish starts to look faded or dull.
Can Tropitech be applied over an existing stain
It is important that any existing stain, other than Tropitech, is completely removed. To do this use Prepdeck
When can I apply Tropitech?
Tropitech must be applied when the ambient temperature is a constant 10°C or higher. If the temperature falls below this then curing of the Tropitech can be affected. Do not apply if cold or wet weather is expected within 24 hours.
How can Tropitech be applied?
Tropitech can be applied by brush, roller, paint pad or airless spray. When applying by spray always back brush or back roll in order to achieve an even application and improve penetration.
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