PREPARATION
Begin with ensuring the wood decking surface is clean and smooth. Employ a rigid bristle brush or use a pressure washer to thoroughly eliminate all traces of dust, grime, dirt, and any mildew. While using a pressure washer, exercise caution to prevent damaging the wood by maintaining an appropriate spraying distance.
We recommend using the DeckWise® Wood Cleaner and Brightener for optimal results, as they prepare the wood to accept the finishing product. When combined with hot water, the Cleaner can be administered onto the wood's surface using a hand-held pump-up sprayer. Utilize the Brightener if the wood decking appears particularly lackluster after cleaning.
After allowing the solution to soak for 10-15 minutes, scrub and rinse thoroughly until no suds remain. Stubborn stains might necessitate multiple applications. Once the wood is cleaned, ensure a completely dry surface prior to applying the trailer deck floorboard finish. Plan for a minimum of 2-3 days of dry weather, with no anticipated rain within 24-48 hours.
Note: If the wood becomes wet after finishing, water spots may appear, requiring sanding before performing a light refinishing over the entire surface to ensure uniformity. Allow for at least 24 hours of contact-free drying and curing time.
APPLICATION
Wise Oil® Trailer Deck Finish is an oil-based wood treatment that penetrates deeply rather than forming a surface film that could peel off over time.
For the initial coat, we recommend rolling or brushing the finish onto the wood surface. Optimal results can be achieved using a 10 to 12-inch roller with a 3/8-inch nap. Allow the finish to soak in for 20 to 30 minutes, considering the ambient heat and sun exposure. Wipe away any excess oil finish (before it becomes tacky) using clean cotton rags or thick shop towels. The surface should have a matte/satin appearance without any glossy or shiny spots.
Whenever feasible, an underside coating application is advised to further seal the wood decking. This can be easily done when installing new wood decking by applying the finish before installing the boards on the trailer.
Additional coats can be applied 24 hours after the initial coat.
To maintain the decking's appearance and bolster protection, a light maintenance application on an annual or bi-annual basis is recommended. Simply follow the aforementioned process.
Note: Avoid excessive application of Trailer Deck Oil Finish. Beyond a certain point, the oil-based finish will cease to be absorbed by the trailer decking wood. Applying an excess or not wiping thoroughly could lead to a tacky finish, requiring removal with a solvent or sanding.
COVERAGE
For high-density hardwood decking, anticipate coverage of 300-400 sq. ft. per gallon or more, contingent on wood porosity. Softwoods and older decking may absorb more trailer deck finish than hardwoods. Coverage ranges between 200 and 300 sq. ft. per gallon, influenced by wood characteristics and porosity specific to the wood species.
WARNING: Do not leave rags balled up, they will catch fire or self-combust. Rags, brushes, rollers, steel wool or waste soaked with Wise Oil® Trailer Deck Finish may also spontaneously catch fire if improperly discarded. Immediately after each use, place waste materials in a sealed, water-filled metal container. Dispose of waste material and empty cans or unused portion in accordance with, local, state, and federal regulations.
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