The benefits of using a Wood Protector

Is there an difference between a wood preserver and a wood protector?

In general terms, there is very little difference. Depending on the brand, it may be labelled as a protector or a preserver. Where a brand does both a persever and a protector the difference is likely to be whether its solvent-based or water-based.

The important thing to look at is what its offering you. Always check the descriptions – just because it says it’s a preserver/ protector, doesn’t mean it will be what you need or are looking for. Make sure to do your research! 

What is the purpose of using a wood protector?

Wood is a hard-wearing and versatile material, perfect for all kinds of outdoor uses such as sheds, fences, decking, garden furniture, cabins etc, being structurally sound and flexible.

It is easy to forget that wood is vulnerable to many types of damage and needs looking after, especially when in damp places.

Some of the most common culprits of wood deterioration include mould, algae and fungi. These occur in damp conditions and can cause early rotting in wood, especially when there is a lack of airflow. It can cause the wood to sag and become misshaped, ruining its structural integrity getting worse in bad weather.  

Wood boring insects can also be a big problem, not just for outside wood but for interior as well. When in their larvae stage, wood worm are at their most destructive as they are excellent decomposers of wood matter; usually feeding on dead or dying trees. An infestation of these insects is more likely to occure when there is high humidity due to poor ventilation. 

Then there is the matter of environmental harm. Not only do UV rays cause greying in wood, it also goes deeper, affecting the wood fibres. This sun damage paired with other weather damage such as heavy rain and wind, causes the fibres to lose its resilience and be open to cracking, splintering, chipping and warping. 

Whilst we cannot control the weather nor the environment, we can protect our outside wood by using preservers and protectors that will decrease any damage from these problems and extend its lifespan. 

Can I use other products on top of preservers or protectors? 

Simple answer – yes. It is vital to check what the specific preserver/protector says about top coats, but generally they can work as an undercoat or a pre-treatment before you paint your wood.

As mentioned earlier, you can get protectors and preservers that have a colour tint, some may be full coverage but others may be more like a stain with the natural grain showing through. It really is down to what you want, however, make sure that your top coat will sit on top of what you have underneath.

For example, if your protector is oil-based then a water-based topcoat wil not sit on top well, however, an oil-based topcoat should sit on a water-based protector just fine. Also take care when varnishing or waxing treated wood. If the preserver or protector has wax in the ingredients then this will repel any water-based topcoat and it won't stick.

What do we recommend? 

There are many preservers and protectors out there to choose from, we have compiled a list of our top 3 competitors: