Timber iQ October - November 2017 // Issue: 34 | Page 41

FEATURES Single Coat Oil-Based Wood Stain Protects, nourishes and colours wood in one easy application Wood ensures homes are warmer in winter and cooler in summer compared to other materials. can be achieved in this way, something that is more and more of a decision factor for households as energy prices rise in South Africa. Many people are surprised to learn that homeowners in several bitterly cold European countries choose wooden windows and doors to insulate their properties. Unlike wood, metal frames can also get hot if they are exposed to the baking summer sun, meaning they are not designed to be touched. Many people are also put off by the cold, clinical nature of metal. De Villiers says the most common household window frames in this country are made from either wood or aluminium. In most cases, wood is chosen by buyers due to its perceived aesthetic advantage. And, there is also a degree of romanticism attached to the age-old art of carpentry and woodwork; skills that are becoming harder and harder to find in South Africa. A more practical advantage of using wood is the sheer variety of designs and styles that can be created, which can also match a buyer’s home in certain cases, as well as their budget. Several window manufacturers in South Africa provide full pane wooden windows, cottage pane windows or sliding sash windows. HIGH MAINTENANCE One disadvantage of using wood is that it is not suitable for every application. “Wood needs protection from the elements and needs to be treated annually to help prevent deterioration,” says De Villiers. Many people assume that wooden windows require burdensome maintenance regimes, however, the arrival of high-quality water-based sealers has gone a long way to address these fears. A good sealer can cut the frequency of varnishing wood to just once every four years, in some circumstances. In fact, wood can last a lifetime if properly cared for. Quality is important when choosing timber as a design material to use for windows and doors. Generally, treated ha rd woods like Meranti are a better choice than pine as they are more durable. Timber is a renewable resource and its use in windows and doors means a far lower impact on the environment. Unlike metals, it does not need to be mined at great cost to the earth and its landscape. For those who appreciate their privacy, wood is a good choice, as it is highly efficient at dampening sound. Wood as a working material is flexible and can be made to fit any size opening or trimmed to fit a specific sized doorway. Can be used on all types of untreated wood for both interior and exterior application Easy to apply in one single coat 1 litre covers up to 50m² Proudly made in South Africa Low VOC’s Wide colour range with over 60 colours to choose from Good stock levels and quick turn around time Competitively priced Great quality product Great service [phone] www.jaxoleum.co.za [email protected] Connect with us // OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2017 39