Surface Preparation: Appropriate surface preparation of exotic hardwoods is the secret to the ideal finish and overall performance. It is extremely crucial that the surface be thoroughly clean of all grime, mildew stains, loose grain fibers and other unknown material. The longevity of Ipe Oil® or Ipe Oil® Plus™ could be reduced by a dirty or improperly prepared surface. Decking or hardwood siding surfaces need to be structurally solid plus completely dried out. Check to be sure that the moisture content of the hardwood is below 15 percent. If it is not, wait a minimum of 2-4 days of exposure to dry weather.
Always clean gray or dirty wood before applying Ipe Oil® or Ipe Oil® Plus™. Use DeckWise® Deck & Wood Cleaner Part 1, a powder concentrate.
Allow wood to completely dry for at least 24 to 48 hours. Previously stained or treated wood should be sufficiently weathered to allow for complete penetration of Ipe Oil®.
New wood should be aged at least 6-8 weeks and cleaned before applying product. Aging allows the wood to dry and breaks down the surface mill glaze, allowing better penetration into the wood.
For new hardwood decking in a northern climate, we would recommend just waiting over the winter, then cleaning, brightening and oiling in the spring.
Special Instructions: Before applying, this product should be mixed thoroughly. Ensure that all settled material on bottom of can is evenly incorporated, and intermix multiple containers for an even blend.
Apply Ipe Oil® or Ipe Oil® Plus™ when surface temperatures are between 40F and 90F. If surface is hot to the touch, it is too hot to apply product. Do not apply product if precipitation is expected within 24-48 hours.
Brush, Roller & Rag Application: For the best results, utilize a high quality 3/8” nap roller, pad applicator or stain brush. To minimize lapping, maintain a wet edge lengthwise and do not break in the middle of boards. One coat is sufficient for most applications. Always apply oil onto the boards parallel to the grain of the wood. For exterior home furniture hand-apply the finish into the hardwood grain simply by using a soft cloth. NOTE: Product not absorbed into the wood within 10-20 minutes must be thoroughly removed.
Spray Application: When spraying, back brush or roll to prevent sags and runs. Cover surrounding areas to protect from overspray. For airless spray, use .015” to .019” tip size for best results. NOTE: Product not absorbed into the wood within 10-20 minutes must be thoroughly removed.
Wipe Off Excess: Depending on temperature and direct sunlight versus shade, soak time may need to be adjusted. It is essential to wipe excess oil completely - with a lint-free cloth - and attention paid to pooling after application. Continue to wipe excess oil until no surface sheen or leeching is noticeable. Wood surface must NOT look wet and will have a satin finish.
NOTE: There is no warranty against color fading, whether expressed or implied. In order to maintain color, it is advised to do so with a yearly maintenance plan.
Maintenance: Clean and brighten hardwoods at least once a year with DeckWise® Deck & Wood Cleaner Part 1 and DeckWise® Deck & Wood Brightener Part 2 or use the DeckWise® Deck Restoration Kit with all the products and tools needed in one handy package. Apply Ipe Oil® or Ipe Oil® Plus™ on decking and hardwoods every one to two years in most applications for desired natural hardwood color. Depending on regional climate conditions, additional coats may be applied to restore the preferred natural wood tint color.
Maintaining a clean deck or hardwood surface between finish applications is recommended with the use of a mild detergent using a soft bristle brush, and warm water. Mix the mild detergent in a bucket of warm water; gently scrub the wood surface with the mixture. Allow the mixture to rest on the surface for roughly 5 minutes, and then thoroughly rinse the wood surface with water.
Cleanup & Disposal: Wash rollers, brushes, spray equipment and steel wool with mineral spirits. Be sure to let air dry out of direct sunlight before disposal. Lay rags flat to dry out of sunlight or soak application utensils and any other materials in water immediately after use. Always keep the oil container closed and sealed when not in use.
WARNING! Rags, steel wool, brushes, rollers and waste soaked with Ipe Oil® or Ipe Oil® Plus™ may spontaneously combust if improperly piled and discarded. Immediately after each use, place all waste in a water filled metal container and seal. Dispose of empty containers and waste filled containers in accordance with local, state and federal regulations.
