• Sep 27, 2021

Timber Clear Coat Broken-down

Many joineries or builders do not offer a warranty on unfinished timber.

Without a finish, all timber will swell or crack and will discolour.

Joinery fully exposed to weather and sunlight or joinery in coastal areas like Gold Coast will need more frequent maintenance.

Even an expensive repair may never fully restore the timber to a nice finish.

Causes of Timber Clear Coat Breakdown

• UV Exposure: Sunlight degrades the coating, leading to fading, chalking, or peeling.
• Moisture Ingress: Water trapped in or under the coating can cause cloudiness, bubbling, or delamination.
• Improper Surface Prep: Dirty, oily, or damp timber prevents proper adhesion.
• Incorrect Application: Applying too thick, too thin, or in poor conditions (cold, humid) can cause failure.
• Chemical Contamination: Harsh cleaners or incompatible products can react with the coating.
• Timber Extractives: Natural oils, waxes, or resins in some species can interfere with curing or cause blooming.
• Mechanical Wear: Foot traffic, abrasion, or furniture movement can erode the finish.
• Low-Quality Product: Cheap or unsuitable clear coats may lack durability or UV resistance.

An Alternative to Protect your Woodwork

Consider Painting in a solid colour