How to preserve wood: Tips and tricks for long-lasting beauty

Wood impregnation is a crucial process that helps maintain its aesthetics and durability. Without proper protection, wood is exposed to weather factors such as UV radiation and moisture, which can have dire consequences. Below, we present a step-by-step guide on how to properly impregnate wood so it can last for years in your garden, on the terrace, or on the balcony.

The first step is choosing the right impregnate. There are various types of impregnates available on the market. When deciding on one, consider:

Type of wood: Some impregnates are dedicated to hardwood, while others are meant for softwood.

Purpose of the wood: Wood used outdoors requires stronger protection than wood used indoors.

Visual effect: The choice of impregnate also affects the appearance of the wood – some treatments highlight the natural color, while others may add color.

Before starting the impregnation process, the wood must be adequately prepared. What should you remember?

Cleaning: The wood should be cleaned of dust, dirt, grease, and other contaminants. A pressure washer is recommended for outdoor surfaces.

Drying: The wood must be completely dry before applying the impregnate. Wet wood won't absorb the protective agent properly.

Sanding: The wood's surface should be smooth to ensure even absorption of the impregnate. It's worth using sandpaper.

Applying the impregnate is a key stage in the process. How to do it correctly?

Choosing tools: You can apply the impregnation using a brush, roller, or sprayer. A brush is precise, but a sprayer allows for faster coverage of large areas.

Application method: The impregnation should be applied evenly along the wood grains. Excess on the surface can cause staining.

Layers: Depending on the manufacturer's recommendations, the impregnation may require one or several layers. Each subsequent layer should be applied after the previous one has completely dried.

After applying the impregnation, the wood must dry adequately. Drying time depends on the type of product and weather conditions. It usually takes from several hours to several days.

Protection during drying: The wood should be protected from rain and direct sunlight, which can disrupt the drying process.

Regular maintenance: Impregnated wood requires regular maintenance. Every few years (depending on conditions and usage intensity), it's worth renewing the layer of impregnate to ensure continuous protection.

Protection against UV radiation: If the wood is exposed to strong sunlight, it's worth using an impregnate with a UV filter to prevent fading and material degradation.

Safety: When working with impregnates, caution should be exercised. Wear gloves and protective glasses, and work in a well-ventilated area.

Impregnating wood is not just a matter of aesthetics but, more importantly, long-lasting protection. A properly carried out impregnation process protects the wood from moisture, UV radiation, and mechanical damage. By following the above guidelines and steps, the wood in your garden, terrace, or on the balcony will look beautiful and last for many years.