Damon Mcknight
Australian Timber Oil (ATO) is a traditional oil-based stain designed to enhance the beauty of exterior wood. It is available in a range of colours and can be applied using a brush, roller, pad, or spray. While ATO is not the easiest product to apply due to its thick consistency and the need to maintain a wet edge, it offers superior protection and a natural finish. The reapplication process is straightforward, and Cabot, the manufacturer, does not recommend stripping an old coat before applying a new one. However, proper ventilation is crucial during application and drying to avoid health hazards associated with the combustible and harmful vapours of the product.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application Method | Brush, pad, roller, sprayer, lambswool pad, aerosol can, or bucket |
| Coats Required | 1-2 |
| Coverage Per Gallon | 200-300 sq. ft |
| Application Temperature | 45-90 F |
| Dry Time | 24 hours |
| Cleanup | Mineral Spirits |
| VOC Compliant | 250 Compliant in All 50 States |
| Available Colors | Amberwood, Honey Teak, Mahogany Flame, Natural |
| Cost | $49.99 per Gallon, $245.99 per 5 Gallon Pail |
| Reapplication | Straightforward, no need to strip the old coat |
| Surface Preparation | Remove loose wood fibers with sandpaper, treat and clean if showing signs of dirt, graying, or rotting |
| Safety | Keep away from heat and open flame, avoid exposure to lead, and keep away from children. Avoid contact with eyes and skin. |
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What You'll Learn
Application methods
Australian Timber Oil (ATO) is an oil-based stain designed to fully penetrate wood fibres. It is available in one- or two-coat applications. The product is thicker in consistency than it used to be, and it is not the easiest to apply. However, if you are an experienced DIYer, you should not have trouble if you follow the directions carefully.
Before applying ATO, it is important to prepare the wood surface. If needed, sand with 80-100-grit sandpaper (120-180 grit for rougher surfaces) to remove any loose wood fibres. If there are old water- or oil-based coatings, remove them with a wood stripper and neutralise with a wood brightener. Check the label for additional and specialised directions. For concrete, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface; if they are quickly absorbed, the surface is ready to be prepped.
ATO can be applied using a good-quality, natural-bristle brush, stain pads, or professional spray equipment. When spraying, always back brush immediately. To ensure the desired appearance and proper drying time, always finish a small test area before proceeding. Do not over-apply. Shake and stir thoroughly before and during use. If the project requires more than one container, blend all containers together to ensure uniformity. Apply to small sections at a time (1-3 boards); start at one edge and follow through to the end of the boards to avoid lap marks.
When applying ATO, care must be taken to maintain a wet edge. This means that you should not allow the stain to dry in the area you are working on before continuing. If wet stain is put on top of dry stain, that place will be darker, resulting in an uneven colour. If you plan to spray ATO with either a pump sprayer or an airless sprayer, make sure to back brush the stain into the wood using a large brush. This will help push the pigment into the fibres and even out any spots where the stain is too thick.
ATO is also available in an aerosol can, which is great for staining spindles on decks or small pieces of furniture, as well as for getting into tight areas that may be difficult to reach with a brush.
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How often to reapply
Australian Timber Oil (ATO) is a premium oil-based stain designed to fully penetrate wood fibres. It is available in one-coat and two-coat formulas, with the two-coat formula requiring a lighter touch to avoid over-application. The pigments in each of ATO's colour options enhance the natural beauty of the wood.
ATO is not the easiest product to apply, and care must be taken to avoid over-application, which can result in shiny spots where the stain is too heavy. It is important to maintain a wet edge when applying ATO, ensuring that you do not allow the stain to dry in the area you are working on before continuing. If wet stain is applied on top of dry stain, that place will be darker, resulting in an uneven colour.
Reapplication of ATO should be straightforward, and Cabot does not recommend stripping an old coat before applying a new one. However, if your fence or deck is dirty or showing signs of greying, it will need to be treated and cleaned before applying a new stain.
The frequency of reapplication depends on the specific use case and environmental factors. In one case, a user reported that their deck went three years without needing re-application, while another user in a sunny climate reported that their deck began to fade and grey after four to six weeks, requiring a second coat.
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Preparation
Australian Timber Oil (ATO) is a traditional oil-based stain that can be applied to exterior wood, including decks, siding, fences, and trim. It is designed to penetrate wood fibres and provide a natural finish that enhances the beauty of the wood. Before applying ATO, it is important to properly prepare the surface to ensure the best results and avoid any issues. Here are some detailed instructions on how to prepare for applying Australian Timber Oil:
Surface Preparation:
First, determine if the surface is suitable for ATO. ATO is designed for use on new or reconditioned exterior wood. If your wood is old and has blemishes or imperfections, consider that ATO is a transparent stain and will not cover them up. Ensure the surface is clean and free of any dirt, mould, or signs of greying. If necessary, use a deck stain stripper with pressure washing to remove any previous coatings or stains. Neutralize the surface with a wood brightener to restore its natural colour and ensure the new stain adheres properly.
Safety Precautions:
ATO contains combustible and harmful chemicals. Always read the label and take the necessary safety precautions. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid overexposure to vapors. Keep away from heat, open flames, and sparks. Wear protective gear, including gloves, eye protection, and a respirator, to avoid contact with eyes and skin. Have a first aid kit nearby and follow the instructions on the product label in case of accidental exposure.
Wood Preparation:
If you're working with new wood, ensure it is properly sanded and free of any loose wood fibers. Use 80-100 grit sandpaper for smooth surfaces and 120-180 grit for rougher surfaces. If you're removing old coatings, use a wood stripper specifically designed for the type of coating (water-based or oil-based) and always neutralize with a wood brightener afterward. Ensure the wood is completely dry before proceeding.
Application Method:
Decide on the best application method for your project. ATO can be applied using a natural-bristle brush, stain pads, or professional spray equipment. For small projects or hard-to-reach areas, spray cans are convenient. For larger areas, consider using a roller or pad. Remember to always back brush immediately after spraying to ensure even coverage and proper penetration.
Testing:
Before proceeding with the full application, it is essential to test ATO on a small, inconspicuous area of the wood. This will allow you to assess the desired appearance and ensure proper drying time. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time, which is typically 24 hours. By preparing the surface, taking safety precautions, properly preparing the wood, choosing the right application method, and conducting a test, you can ensure that you are ready to apply Australian Timber Oil effectively and safely.
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Safety precautions
Australian Timber Oil is a wood stain and sealer that can be used on exterior wood surfaces, such as decks, siding, fences, and trim. It is designed to penetrate dense exotic hardwoods and provide a natural finish that resists fading and scuffing.
- Combustibility: Australian Timber Oil contains aliphatic hydrocarbons, which are combustible. Keep the product away from heat and open flames during application and storage.
- Ventilation: The vapors from Australian Timber Oil can be harmful. Ensure adequate ventilation during application and drying by opening windows and doors or using other means to increase fresh air circulation.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE, including gloves and eye protection, to avoid direct contact with skin and eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after use.
- Lead Exposure: If you are working on older wood surfaces that may have been painted previously, be aware that sanding or scraping old paint may release lead dust or fumes. Lead exposure can cause serious health issues, especially in children and pregnant women. Use proper respiratory protection, such as a NIOSH-approved respirator, and follow recommended containment and cleanup procedures.
- First Aid: In case of accidental eye contact, flush eyes thoroughly with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. For skin contact, wash the affected area with soap and water. If respiratory difficulties occur, move to fresh air and call a physician. If ingested, immediately contact the Poison Control Center, hospital emergency room, or a physician.
- Surface Preparation: Before applying Australian Timber Oil, ensure the surface is properly prepared. Test the surface by sprinkling a few drops of water on it; if the water is quickly absorbed, the surface is ready for the oil application.
- Application Technique: When applying Australian Timber Oil, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Use good-quality application tools, such as natural-bristle brushes, stain pads, or professional spray equipment. Avoid over-application and always back-brush immediately after spraying.
- Drying and Curing: Allow Australian Timber Oil to dry and cure properly before allowing foot traffic or placing furniture on the treated surface. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for drying time, which is generally 24 hours.
- Storage: Keep the Australian Timber Oil container closed when not in use and do not transfer the contents to other containers for storage. Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Disposal: Dispose of any unused or leftover Australian Timber Oil in accordance with local regulations for hazardous waste disposal. Do not pour it down the drain or into storm sewers. Contact your local waste management authority for guidance.
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Colour options
Australian Timber Oil is available in a range of colour options. The product is designed to penetrate dense exotic hardwoods in just one coat, and its superfine pigments are formulated to never peel and resist brush marks.
The colour options include five rich colours that are designed to not fade or scuff for years. The specific colours are: Amberwood, Honey Teak, Mahogany Flame, and Natural. These colours are available in the Cabot Semi-Transparent Stain + Sealer range, which is designed to highlight the grain of the wood while providing long-lasting protection. This range is available in 100 colours, although the product website notes that the colours shown are for reference purposes only and have been reproduced using digital production techniques.
The Cabot Wood Toned Stain & Sealer range is also available, which is formulated with a unique blend of resin and oil to provide a natural finish for bare wood. This range slightly darkens the wood when first applied, leaving a flat, translucent-toned finish that weathers over time to a natural wood hue.
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Frequently asked questions
Australian Timber Oil (ATO) is designed to be a long-lasting product. Depending on the environment, you may need to reapply it every few years.
Australian Timber Oil is designed to be applied in one or two thin coats.
Australian Timber Oil can be applied with a good-quality, natural-bristle brush, stain pads, or professional spray equipment. When spraying, always back brush immediately.
Australian Timber Oil has a dry time of 24 hours.
Australian Timber Oil contains combustible aliphatic hydrocarbons, so keep it away from heat and open flames. It also has harmful vapors, so use it only with adequate ventilation. Avoid contact with eyes and skin, and wash hands after use.
