ACS HydroBar Woodbead - Water Repellent For Wood

Health & Safety Recommendations

When applying ACS HydroBar Woodbead, observe proper labour hygiene and follow recommended safety precautions.

Ensure the use of suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect skin, eyes, and respiratory passages during application. For additional details on protective gear, see our Safety & PPE Products section.

It is essential to consult the product label and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for comprehensive health and safety information.

Substrate Suitability

ACS HydroBar Woodbead is specifically formulated for use on bare timber surfaces, providing long-lasting water repellency and durability.

For optimal effectiveness, it is recommended for untreated or bare wood applications, including softwoods and hardwoods.

Timber surfaces with existing coatings such as paints, stains, or varnishes are unsuitable for immediate application and must be thoroughly stripped to allow ACS HydroBar Woodbead to penetrate effectively.

Surface Preparation

Before applying ACS HydroBar Woodbead, all surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned and prepared to maximise the product’s protective properties.

Remove any oil, grease, or loose, flaking material, such as bark, to ensure a stable substrate. Organic growth, including moss, lichen, mould, and fungi, should be cleared using a suitable cleaning solution such as Green Gone Path & Patio Cleaner.

For smoother, planed timber (PAR), lightly abrade the surface using wire wool or medium-grade Aluminium Oxide paper to enhance porosity and improve adhesion. For older, weathered timber, rub down the surface to eliminate degraded material and expose fresh wood fibres.

Before beginning, mask any glazing and protect plants or other nearby sensitive surfaces to avoid unintended contact with the product.

Application Method

For best results, ACS HydroBar Woodbead should be applied using a brush, deep pile roller, or conventional garden sprayer. Prior to application, shake the container thoroughly to re-disperse any settled product and continue shaking periodically throughout use.

Begin by applying an initial coat at the top of the timber surface, allowing the liquid to flow naturally down the substrate. Work methodically down the surface, ensuring uniform coverage.

Before the first coat dries, apply a second coat using the ‘wet-on-wet’ technique to increase penetration and durability. Once the surface has fully dried, additional coats may not absorb effectively, so ensure complete and even coverage during initial application.

If splashes come into contact with glass, plants, or other sensitive surfaces, remove them immediately.

Coverage

ACS HydroBar Woodbead typically provides coverage of approximately 4-8 square metres per litre, depending on the porosity and condition of the timber.

More porous surfaces may absorb additional product, while smoother, denser woods may require less. Adjust application amounts accordingly to ensure thorough protection across all areas.

Finishing

Allow ACS HydroBar Woodbead to dry fully to achieve its protective, water-repellent finish. The product is designed to create a durable, almost invisible barrier against moisture, providing a long-lasting beading effect and enhanced weather resistance.

Avoid applying ACS HydroBar Woodbead if rain, fog, or frost is forecasted before the coating has dried, or if temperatures are within 3°C of the dew point, as this can impact the product’s efficacy.

Cleaning

After application, clean all equipment and tools with water to remove any remaining product. If using a sprayer, flush it thoroughly to prevent product residue from clogging the system.

Dispose of any waste product and cleaning water responsibly, following local regulations for disposal of waterborne wood treatments.

Other Information

ACS HydroBar Woodbead is a waterborne impregnating solution specifically designed to enhance and preserve exterior timber, making it more resilient against environmental wear.

This product is free from fungicides and UV pigments, allowing natural timber ageing while enhancing water and dirt resistance. Note that treated timber will not accept new waterborne or solvent-based paints until it has weathered naturally over several months, ensuring the product’s water-shedding properties remain intact.

For more comprehensive timber protection, consider combining ACS HydroBar Woodbead with ACS Lignotec Wood Treatment, which offers added resistance to sapstain and wood decay fungi.

Q) What is ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead and its primary use?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead is a premium, waterborne impregnating water repellent designed for protecting exterior timber. It is a single-pack solution that offers exceptional long-lasting, water-shedding properties with a pronounced beading effect, ensuring the timber remains both protected from moisture and environmental elements and aesthetically pleasing. Its primary use is to safeguard bare softwoods and hardwoods used in exterior applications, such as cladding, garden sheds, fences, noise barriers, decking, seats, and natural timber joinery, enhancing their durability and resistance to decay.

Q) How does ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead work?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead works by deeply penetrating the timber's surface, providing a clear, almost invisible finish once dry. Its unique formulation, which includes an aqueous solution of functional silicone resin, creates a water-repellent barrier that significantly reduces water uptake. This barrier not only enhances the timber's natural aging process but also exhibits a pronounced beading effect, evidencing its efficiency in repelling water and protecting against moisture and environmental degradation.

Q) What are the advantages of using ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead?

A) The advantages of using ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead include its long-lasting protection, offering over a decade of water repellent efficacy; a pronounced beading effect that adds an aesthetic appeal while indicating effective water repellence; suitability for a variety of timber types, both softwoods and hardwoods; environmentally friendly formulation free from fungicides and UV controlling pigments; enhanced natural aging of timber; invisible finish that preserves the wood's natural appearance; and resistance to dirt and organic growth through its water-repellent properties.

Q) Can ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead be applied to any type of wood?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead is specifically formulated for bare softwoods and hardwoods. It is ideal for exterior timber applications where the wood is exposed to the elements. However, it should not be applied to painted, stained, or varnished surfaces. Surfaces previously treated with these coatings must have them completely removed before application.

Q) How is ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead applied?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead should be well shaken before and periodically during use to ensure consistency. It can be applied using a brush, deep pile roller, or conventional garden sprayer. Start from the top of the substrate, working downwards, and apply an initial coat, allowing excess liquid to run off. A second coat should be applied wet-on-wet before the initial coat dries. It's important to ensure that splashes on glass or plant life are removed immediately or that these areas are masked off or covered prior to application.

Q) How much coverage does ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead provide?

A) The coverage of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead ranges from approximately 4-8 square meters per litre, depending on the porosity of the timber. More porous woods may absorb more product, reducing the coverage area, whereas less porous woods provide greater coverage.

Q) Are there any limitations to using ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead?

A) Yes, there are some limitations when using ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead. It should not be applied if there is a likelihood of rain, fog, or frost before the coating has completely dried, or if the surface is wet or within 3°C of the dew point. These conditions can adversely affect the application and drying process, potentially diminishing the effectiveness of the water-repellent barrier.

Q) Can ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead be used with other treatments?

A) Yes, ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead can be used in conjunction with ACS Lignotec Wood Treatment for comprehensive protection. This combination is particularly beneficial for timber species vulnerable to decay, such as pine and lower-grade softwoods, as it provides control against sapstain and wood decay fungi in addition to the water-repellent properties of Woodbead.

Q) How long does ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead last?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead offers over a decade of water repellent efficacy, with extensive laboratory testing demonstrating significantly reduced levels of water uptake. Field trials have shown that its notable beading effects can last for 17 years in challenging environments, such as Alpine regions, indicating its long-lasting protection capabilities.

Q) Can painted or varnished timber be treated with ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead?

A) No, ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead is suitable for application to bare timber only. Any paints, stains, or varnishes must be completely removed prior to application. Surfaces treated with ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead will not accept waterborne or solvent-based paints until they have undergone several months of weathering.

Q) Is ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead environmentally friendly?

A) Yes, ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead is an environmentally considerate option for timber protection. It is formulated to be free from fungicides and UV controlling pigments, making it a safer and more environmentally friendly choice compared to some other timber treatments that contain harsh chemicals. By focusing on a waterborne formula and emphasising its water-repellent properties rather than incorporating biocides, ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead provides an effective solution for extending the life of timber while having a lower impact on the environment.

Q) How does the weather affect the application of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead?

A) Weather conditions play a significant role in the successful application of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead. It is crucial not to apply the product if there is a likelihood of rain, fog, or frost before the coating has completely dried. Additionally, application should not be done on wet surfaces or when temperatures are within 3°C of the dew point. Adhering to these guidelines ensures optimal drying and effectiveness of the water-repellent barrier.

Q) What is the drying time for ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead?

A) The drying time for ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead can vary depending on environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and air circulation. However, under optimal conditions, the surface will start to dry to the touch within a few hours of application. For the best results, it is recommended to allow the treated timber to dry completely before exposing it to moisture, which may take up to 24 hours in ideal conditions.

Q) How does ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead impact the appearance of timber?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead is designed to preserve the natural appearance of timber. On application, it presents as a milky white colour but dries to a clear, almost invisible finish, ensuring that the wood retains its natural aesthetics. The pronounced beading effect, which becomes evident when the wood comes into contact with water, adds to the aesthetic appeal without altering the inherent beauty of the timber.

Q) Can ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead be used on interior timber?

A) While ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead is specifically designed for exterior timber applications to protect against moisture and environmental elements, its use on interior timber is not recommended due to its formulation and intended purpose. Its benefits are most effective in outdoor settings where timber is exposed to the elements.

Q) Is special equipment required for the application of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead?

A) No special equipment is required for the application of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead. It can be applied using a brush, deep pile roller, or conventional garden sprayer. These tools allow for even distribution of the product across the timber surface. However, it is essential to ensure that the product is well shaken before and periodically during use to maintain its efficacy.

Q) How should surfaces be prepared before applying ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead?

A) Surface preparation is crucial for the effective application of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead. Surfaces must be clean, dry, and free of oil, grease, loose or flaking material, and organic growth such as mosses, lichens, moulds, and fungi. Old, ‘silvered’ timber should be rubbed down to remove degraded material and expose new wood. Glossy surfaces of prepared timber should be lightly abraded to reduce surface tension and increase porosity. All necessary preparations ensure optimal penetration and effectiveness of the water-repellent treatment.

Q) Can ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead be applied over existing finishes?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead cannot be applied over existing finishes such as paints, stains, or varnishes. These coatings must be completely removed to expose the bare timber before applying Woodbead. The product is designed to penetrate the wood's surface deeply, and existing finishes would prevent proper absorption, reducing its effectiveness.

Q) What safety precautions should be taken when using ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead?

A) When using ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead, standard safety precautions should be observed. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety goggles, and masks, to avoid direct contact with the skin and inhalation of fumes. Additionally, ensure the workspace is well-ventilated during application to minimise exposure to any vapors. Always consult the product's label and material safety data sheet for specific safety recommendations.

Q) How should ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead be stored?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Ensure the container is tightly sealed when not in use to prevent the product from drying out or deteriorating. Proper storage conditions will help maintain the product's shelf life and effectiveness for future use.

Q) Can ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead be used in conjunction with other protective treatments?

A) Yes, ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead can be used in conjunction with other protective treatments, such as ACS Lignotec Wood Treatment, for enhanced protection against sapstain and wood decay fungi. However, it is important to ensure that any additional treatments are compatible with ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead and that the application sequence is correct to achieve optimal protection. Typically, ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead should be applied after any cleaning or fungicidal treatments have been carried out and the timber is clean and dry. This ensures that the water-repellent properties of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead are not compromised by subsequent treatments.

Q) What environmental conditions are ideal for applying ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead?

A) The ideal environmental conditions for applying ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead are dry weather with low humidity, temperatures above 5°C, and no forecast of rain, fog, or frost for at least 24 hours post-application. These conditions help ensure that the product dries effectively and the water-repellent barrier forms properly on the timber surface.

Q) Can ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead be used on previously treated timber?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead can be used on previously treated timber, provided that the old treatments are completely removed and the wood is bare. Previous treatments can impede the penetration of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead into the timber, reducing its effectiveness. The timber must be clean, dry, and free of any previous coatings, oils, or waxes for ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead to work effectively.

Q) How does ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead affect the timber's natural aging process?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead enhances the natural aging process of timber by allowing it to age gracefully while providing superior water and dirt resistance. It does not contain UV controlling pigments or fungicides, which means the timber will naturally change color over time due to exposure to sunlight and weather, but it will be protected against excessive moisture absorption and decay, maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the wood for longer.

Q) Is ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead suitable for all climates?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead is designed to be effective in a wide range of climates, offering durable protection against moisture and environmental elements. However, its performance may vary depending on extreme weather conditions and variations in timber species. In very humid or extremely dry climates, additional considerations may be necessary to ensure the timber is adequately protected.

Q) How often should ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead be reapplied?

A) The need for reapplication of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead depends on the exposure conditions and the performance of the product over time. While ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead is designed to offer long-lasting protection, periodic inspection of the treated timber is recommended. If water no longer beads on the surface or if the timber shows signs of moisture absorption, it may be time to reapply. However, under normal conditions, the product's effects can last over a decade, with field trials indicating notable beading effects lasting for up to 17 years in some environments.

Q) Can ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead be used on timber in contact with soil or water?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead is not recommended for timber that is in direct contact with soil or submerged in water. It is designed for exterior timber exposed to the elements but not for situations where the wood is constantly exposed to moisture, as in the case of ground contact or underwater applications. For such applications, timber requires a different type of protective treatment specifically formulated for those conditions.

Q) What is the shelf life of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead?

A) The shelf life of ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead, when stored correctly in its original, unopened container, is typically several years. If the product appears to have separated, a thorough stirring or shaking before use will reconstitute it, but if unsure about the product's condition after extended storage, conducting a small test application is advisable to ensure its effectiveness.

Q) Can ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead be painted over?

A) Surfaces treated with ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead cannot be painted over immediately due to its water-repellent properties. The treated timber will need to undergo several months of weathering before it can accept waterborne or solvent-based paints. This weathering process allows the surface to degrade slightly, enabling it to better bond with paints or stains applied subsequently.

Q) How does ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead contribute to sustainable timber management?

A) ACS Hydrobar® Woodbead contributes to sustainable timber management by extending the life of exterior timber structures through its advanced water-repellent properties. By protecting timber from moisture-related decay and enhancing its natural aging process without the use of harmful chemicals, it helps reduce the need for frequent replacements or repairs, leading to less timber being harvested and a lower environmental impact. Its environmentally considerate formulation also aligns with sustainable practices by minimising the release of harmful substances into the environment.

Technical Data Sheet

Safety Data Sheet

Coming Soon