With our wood care tips and recommendations, you will receive all the important information about our products in an understandable language - because we want you to benefit from your rettenmeier® products for longer!
WOOD CARE
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR WOOD CORRECTLY!
In order to get the most out of your wood products afterwards, we have some care instructions for you on how to use your rettenmeier® products correctly. The natural product wood has specific properties. Knowing these will help you to keep your wood product in optimal condition over the long term. Take the time to read our general information and tips - it's worth it!
SPRUCE / FIR (Softwood) darkens to a yellowish brown color when exposed to light. When used outdoors, care must be taken to ensure effective protection through structural design measures and professional treatment with appropriate wood preservatives. With the non-pressure impregnation, finished wood products are finished using a resource-saving immersion process, making them both more resistant to the penetration of wood-destroying fungi or insects and more durable.
| GENUS | Softwood | |
| FINAL TREATMENT | techn. dried; Untreated surface | techn. dried; KDI / not KDI |
| COLOR | very light sand-colored to whitish and naturally colorless | gray, green, yellow, teak, anthracite, mahogany, sand, Mediterranean |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | domestic and EU foreign | |
| HARDNESS | medium / moderate | |
| DELAY | medium / moderate | |
| ALTERNATE ROTARY GROWTH | rare / low | |
| SWELL / SHRINKAGE BEHAVIOR | medium / moderate | |
| CRACKING | pronounced | |
| BRANCHES | very pronounced | |
| RESIN LEAKS | rare / low | |
| REACTION WITH IRON OXIDE | rare / low |
PINE (softwood) Pine darkens to a yellowish brown color when exposed to light. When used outdoors, care must be taken to ensure effective protection through structural design measures and professional treatment with appropriate wood preservatives. With the non-pressure impregnation, finished wood products are finished using a resource-saving immersion process, making them both more resistant to the penetration of wood-destroying fungi or insects and more durable.
THERMAL PINE is durable wood without chemical additives for outdoor use. Due to high temperatures (approx. 210 ° C) and water vapor, wood is physically converted in a process lasting several days. The chemical structure changes, the density, strength and modulus of elasticity are reduced, and resins and other ingredients are removed.
| GENUS | Softwood | |
| FINAL TREATMENT | techn. dried, surface untreated, partly thermal final treatment | techn. dried, KDI / not KDI |
| COLOR | light sand-colored, reddish to naturally colorless | gray, green, yellow, teak, anthracite, mahogany, sand, Mediterranean |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | Domestic and EU countries | |
| HARDNESS | medium / moderate | |
| DELAY | medium / moderate | |
| ALTERNATE ROTARY GROWTH | rare / low | |
| SWELL / SHRINKAGE BEHAVIOR | medium / moderate | |
| CRACKING | pronounced | |
| BRANCHES | very pronounced | |
| RESIN LEAK | very pronounced | |
| REACTION WITH IRON OXIDE | rare / low |
BEECH (hardwood) has very good strength properties, high hardness and is tough and not very elastic; high abrasion resistance; despite the high bulk density, it can be worked easily and cleanly with manual and mechanical tools; The main areas of application are, among others. the furniture production, due to the great hardness in stair construction, toy construction or use as plywood; easy to polish, stain or colorable with other colors. In outdoor areas, beech can only be used to a limited extent due to its moderate stamina and low natural durability.
| GENUS | Hardwood |
| FINAL TREATMENT | techn. dried, surface untreated |
| COLOR | warm, natural, matt wood tone, with an occasional reddish sheen |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | EU and non-EU countries |
| HARDNESS | hard |
| DELAY | rare / low |
| ALTERNATE ROTARY GROWTH | rare / low |
| SWELL / SHRINKAGE BEHAVIOR | medium / moderate |
| CRACKING | medium / moderate |
| BRANCHES | rare / low |
| RESIN LEAK | rare / low |
| REACTION WITH IRON OXIDE | rare / low |
OAK (hardwood) has excellent properties for doors, windows and stairs. Due to its excellent high strength properties, high elasticity and high bulk density, it can be worked easily and cleanly with all hand and machine tools. The oak wood can be stained and matted very well and is perfectly suited as building and construction wood for the highest requirements in terms of beauty, strength, hardness and durability.
| GENUS | Hardwood |
| FINAL TREATMENT | techn. dried, surface untreated |
| COLOR | pleasant, sand to beige colored wood tone |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | EU and non-EU countries |
| HARDNESS | hard |
| DELAY | rare / low |
| ALTERNATE ROTARY GROWTH | rare / low |
| SWELL / SHRINKAGE BEHAVIOR | medium / moderate |
| CRACKING | medium / moderate |
| BRANCHES | rare / low |
| RESIN LEAK | rare / low |
| REACTION WITH IRON OXIDE | pronounced |
ACACIA / ROBINIE(hardwood) have a high bulk density and very good stamina and therefore excellent high strength properties. Despite its high elasticity, this type of wood is easy and clean to process. The surface is oiled and has a decorative and elegant look.
| GENUS | Hardwood |
| FINAL TREATMENT | techn. dried, surface oiled / untreated |
| COLOR | alternating growth structure, finished with a dark brown oil / untreated yellowish white |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | Southeast Europe, Asia |
| HARDNESS | hard |
| DELAY | medium / moderate |
| ALTERNATE ROTARY GROWTH | rare / low |
| SWELL / SHRINKAGE BEHAVIOR | medium / moderate |
| CRACKING | medium / moderate |
| BRANCHES | rare / low |
| RESIN LEAK | rare / low |
| REACTION WITH IRON OXIDE | rare / low |
DOUGLASIE (softwood) darkens to a silver-gray patina when exposed to light or weathering. The change in color can be inhibited by using a wood oil or glaze. Color differences in the wooden decking can be matched with colored wood oils. Easy to edit.
| GENUS | Softwood |
| FINAL TREATMENT | techn. dried, surface untreated |
| COLOR | warm, whitish-pink to reddish honey-colored shade |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | predominantly domestic and Benelux |
| HARDNESS | medium / moderate |
| DELAY | medium / moderate |
| ALTERNATE ROTARY GROWTH | rare / low |
| SWELL / SHRINKAGE BEHAVIOR | medium / moderate |
| CRACKING | medium / moderate |
| BRANCHES | very pronounced |
| RESIN LEAK | medium / moderate |
| REACTION WITH IRON OXIDE | pronounced |
LARCH(softwood) darkens to a silver-gray patina when exposed to light or weathering. The change in color can be inhibited by using a wood oil or glaze. Color differences in the wooden decking can be matched with colored wood oils. Easy to edit.
| GENUS | Softwood |
| FINAL TREATMENT | techn. dried, surface untreated dried, surface untreated |
| COLOR | warm, whitish-pink to reddish honey-colored shade |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | predominantly domestic and Benelux |
| HARDNESS | medium / moderate |
| DELAY | medium / moderate |
| ALTERNATE ROTARY GROWTH | rare / low |
| SWELL / SHRINKAGE BEHAVIOR | medium / moderate |
| CRACKING | medium / moderate |
| BRANCHES | very pronounced |
| RESIN LEAK | very pronounced |
| REACTION WITH IRON OXIDE | pronounced |
ARTWOOD® WPC / GCC(composite material) products are splinter and knot-free, have a colored surface, 100% recyclable, harmless to health - material is suitable for the manufacture of children's toys. Simple installation without visible screw connections with a clip system, cleaning with water or a high-pressure cleaner (washing nozzle). Composite material consisting of about 75% softwood or 45-65% natural fiber and 10-30% used material resources and about 25% fresh polymeers and additives. Color development: Artwood® is a natural product that is subject to color maturation due to weathering.
| GENERAL | Composite |
| FINAL TREATMENT | Surfaces brushed and partly polished |
| COLOR | in brownish to terracotta-colored and gray to anthracite-colored versions |
| COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | Domestic |
| HARDNESS | very hard |
| DELAY | rare / low |
| ALTERNATE ROTARY GROWTH | does not occur |
| SWELL / SHRINKAGE BEHAVIOR | very pronounced |
| CRACKING | not occurring |
| BRANCHES | not occurring |
| RESIN LEAK | not occurring |
| REACTION WITH IRON OXIDE | rare / low |
Our solid wood products are subject to strict quality criteria (in accordance with Tegernsee customs). Depending on the type of wood, individual wooden profiles are characterized by a natural play of colors. This different play of colors gives the product a lively appearance and underlines the natural, individual character of the wood and is not a sorting criterion.
Natural weather influences such as sun, moisture and UV radiation have different effects on the wood depending on the type of wood. This can cause cracks to form, but these have no effect on the durability. Crack formation is a natural characteristic of wood and is not a cause for complaint.
The number and size of the branches can vary depending on the type of wood, origin and growth-related influences. They are not a defect, their number and size are not limited. Occasionally knocked out edge knots and tears in the knot area cannot always be avoided and have no influence on the durability of the wood. The same applies to wood treated with color. Wood is a natural material that "works".
Therefore, under the influence of the ambient air humidity, there may be dimensional changes in the thickness and width of the wooden profiles (up to 10%). This behavior is called swelling and shrinking and should be taken into account when planning. The specified profile and board dimensions are calculated dimensions, which in the terrace area can vary in length by up to 5 cm and in width by up to 1 cm from the actual dimensions.
In the case of naturally grown materials, there may be moderate and, in some cases, severe distortion. The correct spacing of the substructure can counteract warpage. Decking boards that have already been warped can be "cut healthily" when they are cut to size. The distortion can be reduced by on-site cutting. Not every board can be free of distortion along its entire length.
USAGE LIFE OF SELECTED TYPES OF WOOD AND WOOD MODIFICATIONS
The information on life expectancy under moderate climatic conditions is only an orientation about the relationship between the life expectancy of the classes. It is not possible to provide precise information about the specific service life, as it is very much dependent on the individual environmental conditions and constructional measures, and is therefore not subject to any guarantee.
| DURABILITY CLASS | DURABILITY | WOOD / WOOD MODIFICATION |
| 1 | > 25 years | |
| 2 | 15 - 25 years | Thermowood pine, softwood KDI |
| 3 | 10 - 15 years | Douglas fir, larch, Siberian larch, softwood quality-impregnated* |
| 4 | 5 - 10 years | spruce |
| 5 | <5 years | pine |
CONDITIONS OF USE OF WOOD PRODUCTS
The service life of wooden components outdoors can be extended considerably by using structural wood protection. Without it, the service life can be strongly influenced by local conditions (high ambient humidity, constant or partial water contact, no rear ventilation, etc.). In contrast, a favorable installation situation, e.g. no ground contact, cover, etc., can also significantly extend the service life. Terrace coverings made of wood are generally not barefoot boards, especially conifers. The surface quality in later use depends largely on the wood and wood species-specific factors.
| DURABILITY CLASS | CONDITIONS OF USE | NECESSARY DURABILITY CLASS | |
| 1 | Without direct contact with the ground, wooden component covered, completely protected from the weather | no humidification (furniture, interior components) | 1 - 5 |
| 2 | Without direct contact with the ground, wooden component covered, protected from the weather | exposed to high ambient humidity; Occasional, non-permanent humidification (interior components in wet areas, exterior components without direct weathering) | 1 - 3 |
| 3 | Wooden component exposed to the weather, no contact with the ground | Frequent humidification (exterior components exposed to weathering, without ground contact, interior components in wet areas) | 1 - 2, 3 possibly impregnated |
| 4 | Constant contact with fresh water or earth | Constant moistening (wooden components partially or completely in the earth or in water) | 1, 2, 3 impregnated |
| 5 | Constant contact with sea water | Constant humidification | 1, 2 |
OUTDOOR WOOD
Creative garden architecture and functional, elegant wooden structures can be realized almost limitlessly. However, weather conditions and daily use leave traces on a wooden terrace. Rain, wind, sun, snow and ice put a strain on the material. If a few basic rules are observed, wood can have a long service life. This includes the use of durable types of wood such as Douglas fir and larch. They store ingredients in the heartwood that are toxic to harmful organisms - and thus act as natural wood protection.
Sun, wind and rain affect wood used outdoors and different effects occur.
These natural reactions of the wood are permissible and do not constitute grounds for complaint
WOOD PROTECTION EXTENDS THE SERVICE LIFE
A surface treatment with appropriate paints can achieve relative protection against moisture and UV radiation. In order to maintain the look and effect permanently, it must be repainted regularly - at least twice a year - when used outdoors. Wood that is used indoors and is not exposed to the elements, naturally yellows over time.
In addition to the choice of wood and the natural durability of the wood, structural measures are of great importance for the service life. If wood is exposed to increased moisture over a longer period of time, it will be damaged by fungal attack. A professional planning and the consideration of the structural wood protection during the execution can prevent this.
In the case of standing, load-bearing wooden components, direct contact with the ground should always be avoided outdoors. To protect against splashing water, it is advisable to keep a minimum distance (elevation) of approx. 15 cm.
For horizontal wooden structures, it is also important to avoid direct contact with the ground and always have sufficient distance to the ground. So that no water can remain, horizontal surfaces must have a slope.
Another effective method to extend the useful life of wood is impregnation. Dip impregnation is done in the colors green or yellow. The process consists of immersing all of the wood in a wood preservative bath for a period of a few minutes to several hours. The most common area of application is in the treatment of wooden components such as formwork, timber, windows and doors. The color additives are only used for control purposes and are not weather-resistant. The weather resistance of the impregnation itself results from the fixation of the salt solution on the wood. Therefore, freshly impregnated wood must be protected from rain for a few days. The wood preservative itself is usually a water-soluble, colorless or colored salt concentrate. It contains active biocidal ingredients. Immersion impregnation is only possible if the wood moisture content is less than 50%. It is preventive for wood under roofs and outdoors without contact with the ground and is effective against wood-destroying fungi and insects. If the wood is stored properly, it is effective as a preventive measure against blue stain and mold. The dip-impregnated goods can be painted over with any color after they have dried out.
Rust-free stainless steel screws are best suited for fastening wooden components. With galvanized screws, the zinc layer can be damaged, corrosion and thus discoloration of the wood can occur. Woods rich in tannins, such as Douglas fir, also react to contact with iron and turn dark.
Wood used outdoors is constantly exposed to the elements. UV radiation and rain affect the surface. The wood components are chemically changed and washed out. The wood turns gray naturally in the open air.
A surface treatment with appropriate paints can achieve relative protection against moisture and UV radiation. In order to maintain the look and effect permanently, it must be repainted regularly - at least twice a year - when used outdoors.
Wood that is used indoors and is not exposed to the elements, naturally yellows over time.
Our Artwood® products are an innovative composite material that consists of natural wood fibres and is subject to colour maturation due to the weathering of the anti-slip surface. This color maturity always takes place under uniform weathering of a surface or product according to the corresponding development process:
Please ensure that brushed decking boards are laid in the brushing direction (laying arrow), as otherwise the fibre orientation may result in a different surface effect (lawnmower effect).
PICTURE 1: after assembly, PICTURE 2: after 1 - 2 months, PICTURE 3: after 3 - 4 months
Exemplary images of the natural color ripening after laying.
Regular cleaning of the Artwood® terrace deck minimizes permanent deposits such as pollen, dust or organic substances.
We therefore recommend cleaning the terrace thoroughly at least twice a year and, if necessary, more frequently as follows:
Please note that the outside temperature should be at least 15 ° C when cleaning!
Our Artwood® decking has an open-pored surface to ensure slip resistance. The rougher and the lighter the surface, the more sensitive it is to normal environmental pollution. Regular cleaning can help maintain the beauty of your patio deck. Sweep the terrace deck regularly with a stiff broom and clean the entire terrace with a WPC cleaner at least twice a year.
Artwood® terrace decks do not require any additional maintenance in addition to normal cleaning in the open, uncovered area. The prescribed slope (2%), UV radiation and rain are usually sufficient to remove stains from the terrace deck. This effect does not work on covered terraces or terraces without a sufficient slope, which means that there is an increased need for cleaning. In this case, we recommend treating the decking with a WPC oil to better protect it against staining.
PICTURE 1: Start of washing, PICTURE 2: after 7 days, PICTURE 3: after 14 days
Exemplary images of the color change after cleaning.
WPC / GCC hollow chamber floorboards must be laid with a slope of at least 2% so that there is no permanent consequential damage (pitting, dimensional changes or frost splitting).
| WPC HOLLOW CHAMBER PLANK | |
| RECTANGULAR TERRACE (MIN. 2% SLOPE) | Installation possible |
| DETACHED RECTANGULAR TERRACE (WITHOUT A SLOPE) | Installation not possible |
| POOL EDGE WITHOUT SLOPE | Laying not possible |
| TRAIL DESIGN (WITHOUT A SLOPE) | relocation not possible |
| U-SHAPED TERRACE | laying not possible |
| L-SHAPED TERRACE | laying not possible |
Artwood® products consist of up to 75% softwood or 45-65% natural fibres and 10-30% used material resources and approx. 25% fresh polymers and additives. Depending on the raw material, there may be minor inclusions of other natural fibers, such as B. Bast (transition layer of bark to wood) come. By using the terrace (abrasion), they will largely disappear over time.
Due to the constant weathering, these rarely occur on a sloping uncovered terrace deck. They tend to form in the transition area from the open space to the protected roof or where there are drip edges. There, water stains cannot be completely avoided and can usually be removed with water and conventional cleaning equipment. In the course of time, the absorbent properties of Artwood® decking are lost and the sensitivity to stains decreases significantly.
CARE TIP: TABLE TOP WILD OAK AND NATURAL ASH
For the treatment of our rettenmeier® wild oak and natural ash table tops with tree edge, we recommend treatment with OSMO TopOil No. 3028 (colourless silk matt) if required. The oils penetrate the wood and protect it from the inside, while the waxes form an elastic, open-pored and breathable surface.
