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Copper Chromium Arsenic
In our experience, we have seen terrible cases of Wood decay from untreated timber frames. A common mistake that some less informed contractors make, is to use Pine SA Pine as frame work and treat the product by hand with Creosote, Carbolinium or sealants. This process does not allow the treatment to penetrate the core of the wood. Rainwater and moisture then enters the core of the wood leaving it blocked inside, as a result of the exterior sealant. An irreversible decay process starts taking effect. Which in most cases leads to the total decomposition of the structure. This is a very sad and financially hurtful event that some will endure. Especially knowing that losing the structure is unavoidable.
There are methods of slowing down the decay by keeping the structure dry or by adding some support to the rotten areas. This could allow the structure temporary safety for traffickers and allow the client to prepare for an alternative option or replacement.
Oil Based Treatment
Oil based treatments vary in content pertaining to application: Usually consist of a Durable water repellent with linseed oil and is reinforced with UV-inhibiting additives to reduce the degrading effects from the sun. Usually a suitable oil treatment would also include a hardener / binder/ resin.
The oil penetrates the surface and forms a layer when exposed to air. This treatment offers exceptional outdoor protection and can be reapplied with minimal preparations. Many of these treatments contain a fungicidal additive such as Boron, which prevents wood destroying organisms.
Water Based Treatment
Water-based finishes are made up of droplets of solvent-based finish, usually acrylic or polyurethane, and a solvent, with water functioning as a thinner. The droplets of finish move closer together and interlock as the water evaporates.
Water-based finishes offer minimal solvent fumes, easy cleanup, and good scuff resistance, but they may raise the wood grain and offer lower quality resistance to water, heat, and solvents. Nice to use for it`s quick drying qualities and the fact that it leaves you with little yellow/orange/red colouration of the wood.
Wax Treatments
Much like an oil treatment. Wax treatment is spread on the surface and is usually a thick and sticky compound. Wax treatment penetrates the wood and also fills thin surface cracks that prevent water penetration. It is quick to re-apply numerous coats and requires little preparation. Perfect for hard to reach areas and timbers less stable in grain, like Eucalyptus Poles (Gumpoles).
Liquid wax treatment takes some time to dry completely and can collect Dirt and dust particles. Should be used as primary protection of the wood and not as a finish that compliments wood grain or colour. This method is not intended as a primer for secondary coating of other types of treatment.
Cleaning Products
Normal soap contains harmful Chemicals such as Amoniac and de-greasing agents that essentially desolves the existing protection.
Find out about our specialised mixtures formulated with harmless ingredients to clean the surfaces, as well as, feed/saturate the timber surface.
Epoxy Treatment
Epoxy treatments are adhesives made from a class of synthetic thermosetting polymers containing epoxide groups. Usually a 2-part mixture of which one contains a catalyst that serves as a hardening accelerant. These treatments usually contain poly-urethane additives for strength, UV and Durability.
Some Epoxy treatments offers minimal colour changes to wood once applied. Another advantage is the strength and longevity of this treatment. perfect for high traffic areas.
Varnish Finishes
Also known as Film finishes, which cure hard and can be built up in layers, these include varnish, shellac, lacquer, water- and latex-based semitransparent stains. This treatment method leaves a hard layer on the wood that protects it from scratching and bumps.
Unfortunately not always suitable for outdoor use as the hardened surface can crack and peel by sun exposure. Moisture tends to creep in below the hardened surface and starts peeling and discolouring.
High Pressure Washing
A pressure washer can be used to clean your deck if done correctly and the wood is in good shape (the pressure can cause further damage not done correctly). Keep it on the lowest setting that will clean the surface without damage (this will depend on how soft the wood is). Use a fan tip setting between 40′ and 60′ tip size and spray with the grain.
There are many household brand products on the market that are safe to use on wooden decks. When choosing a product, keep in mind what type of treatment is currently on your wooden deck. Certain solvents and thinning agents could be harmful to the finish. Always read the instructions or consult the manufacturer to avoid damages to the surface. Avoid bleaches and Ammoniac. Check a test area first before applying detergents and chemicals to ensure that no damage or discoloration occurs. The type of wood (and the condition it’s in), the type of Cleaning product can respond differently to a treatment.
Rhino Modified Wood
Rhino Modified Wood (RMW) source sustainably grown plantation timber from a number of forests in South Africa. Using a two-step wood modification technique as outlined below, RMW are able to produce a product comparable in quality to forest hardwoods.
Heat treatment is a modification process, whereby the timber is subjected to very high temperatures within a controlled environment. This treatment results in the decreased moisture absorption rate of the timber, making it more durable. This also allows to change the colour of the timber, ranging from a dark coffee colour all the way back to an original pine colour.
Involves high pressure impregnation of a non toxic compound which RMW has developed. The compound is forced into the timber in the pressure chamber resulting in a 100% impregnation. This is where the benefits of the RMW application are realised. The compound solidifies in the timber filling all voids.
Roof Inspections
We do visual assessments of the timber structures.
We submit a comprehensive report, detailing all non-compliances and / or failures.
A Risk Index value is then attached to each structure, which will determine the course of action that needs to be taken.
The report will also contain our recommendations to address all structural issues.
As an added service, we also present a repair summary to bring the structure to an acceptable level of compliance and serviceability.
A Bill of Quantities is then prepared to assist the client in the tender process.
We can also assist with scrutinizing the tender process, as well as, the appointment of suitable, competent professionals, who are well familiar & experienced in the repair of timber roof structures.
We ensure project deliverables through personal technical supervision.
We conclude the process by providing an A19- SANS 10400 ‘Safe for Continued Use’ Engineer’s certificate for both the remedial work, as well as, for the overall structure.
Our participation in the entire process above will ensure that we will be able to certify all such remedial work, once completed.
Our Indemnity insurances are kept current and our certificates are available on request.
All Engineering & consulting matters are done in close collaboration with industry professionals.