Overview

Sadolin Extra Durable Clearcoat is an excellent choice for various exterior wood projects, including windows, doors, and conservatories. It serves as an ideal topcoat over Sadolin Classic Wood Protection and Sadolin Extra Durable Woodstain.

Please note: This product is not recommended for use in high-traffic areas like flooring and decking. For decking, consider Sadolin Decking Oil.

Interested in alternative clear coatings for exterior wood? Explore Sadolin Outdoor Varnish or Sadolin Yacht Varnish.

Preparation

Ensure that all timber surfaces intended for treatment are thoroughly clean, dry, and structurally sound. The timber's moisture content should not exceed 18% before applying the coating.

For bare timber

• Remove all traces of surface dirt, debris, and any biological growth using a scraper, stiff brush, or broom
• Treat areas affected by biological growth with an appropriate mould and mildew cleaner
• Remove any resinous deposits using a scraper
• Degrease exposed bare timber surfaces by wiping with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with methylated spirits
• Fill any defects in the wood with Sadolin Wood Filler or Sadolin Stainable Wood Filler
• Use only non-ferrous screws, nails, and fixings

For new timber

• Pre-treat new timber with a suitable preservative like Sadolin Quick Drying Wood Preserver for optimal protection
• Apply the wood preservative and Clearcoat to all parts of the timber before fixing in place, if possible

For previously coated wood

• Thoroughly sand areas with localised damage or deterioration due to prolonged exposure, then re-coat
• Lightly sand previously coated wood in good condition to aid adhesion
• Wash down with warm water and detergent, allowing to dry before applying Sadolin Clearcoat
• For surfaces in poor condition, remove loose, flaking material and weathered timber by sanding, ensuring not to break through the surface coating
• Remove all surface dust and debris before coating with Extra Durable Clearcoat

For base stained joinery

If bare, patch prime joinery with one or more coats of Sadolin Classic Wood Protection in a matching colour

For glazing

• Finish the backs of new glazing beads, end grains, and rebates with the complete Sadolin Extra Durable Clearcoat system before fixing
• Avoid using linseed oil putty or modified, non-setting compounds with Sadolin wood protection systems
• Consult the manufacturer of the relevant glazing material for compatibility
• Apply silicone glazing materials only after completing the finishing coats.

Application

Before starting any project, it's essential to conduct a test area to evaluate product suitability and final finish. Always adhere to the manufacturer's instructions on the tin.

Avoid applying Sadolin Clearcoat in rainy conditions or when temperatures are below 8°C or above 25°C, or if the relative humidity exceeds 80% during application or drying periods. Protect from frost and rain until dry to ensure optimal drying, visual quality, and durability.

• Thoroughly stir the clear coat before and during application.
• Use a high-quality, natural bristle brush to apply Sadolin Extra Durable Clearcoat.
• Apply in a full, even coat, ensuring thorough coverage of all surfaces and end grains.
• Pay special attention to areas prone to moisture, such as end grain, door tops and bottoms, and undersides of sills.
• Allow a minimum of 16-24 hours drying time between coats.
• Apply the second coat following the same procedure.
• When applying Sadolin Clearcoat without a base coat, it's advisable to apply three full coats.

Note: The required amount may vary based on surface condition, moisture content, application method, and climatic conditions.

Aftercare

Regular cleaning

For routine cleaning, wipe wooden surfaces with a dampened, lint-free cloth and warm, soapy water.

Maintenance

The need for maintenance is indicated by a lightening in colour, reduced sheen, and loss of water repellent qualities as the coating wears.

When the finish becomes thin, wash with warm, soapy water (mild detergent) and recoat with 1 or 2 coats of Sadolin Extra Durable Clearcoat.

Repair

• To address organic growth or wood greying, treat with a suitable fungicidal solution and lightly sand the surface.
• Patch prime sanded areas with Sadolin Quick Drying Wood Preserver.
• Apply 1 or more coats of Sadolin Classic Wood Protection or Sadolin Extra Durable Woodstain in the matching shade.
• Finish with Sadolin Extra Durable Clearcoat.

If the finish is severely flaking or peeling, lightly sand and follow the full Preparation and Application instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can Sadolin Extra Durable Clearcoat be used on decking?

A: Sadolin advises against using Extra Durable Clearcoat on decking due to its high surface build and glossy finish. This product may wear faster than dedicated decking stains or oils and could potentially create a slip hazard.