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CUTEK®

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CUTEK® is a powerful wood protection system… but is also so much more than that.

CUTEK® timber oils offer powerful protection while enhancing the natural beauty of timber. CUTEK® timber oils diffuse deeply into timber to repel moisture, maintain structural integrity and ensure the longest possible service life.

What sets CUTEK® oils apart is their ‘self-healing’ action. Once diffused, CUTEK® oils remain permanently mobile in the timber actively driving out moisture to minimise cupping, warping and splitting, even after being cut or perforated with fasteners. CUTEK® penetrating oils have a 30-year proven track record of standing up to our New Zealand climate and other harsh environments around the world.

How CUTEK® Works

Superior Mode of Action

Traditional varnish and natural oil ‘penetrating’ type coatings work by forming a protective film on the surface of the wood to protect against moisture damage. Over time, UV rays and timber movement break down this film causing it to degrade, flake or peel. This allows water to get into the timber which will leads to cupping, warping, splitting and rot. Rectification is costly and time consuming as the old coating will need to stripped away before reapplying.

CUTEK® is different. CUTEK® timber oils penetrate deep into the wood core and drive moisture out of the wood from the inside. This offers superior long-term protection and minimises cupping, warping and splitting. This penetrating oil technology ensures the longest possible service life for your timber. Originally developed in New Zealand, it has been proven to work and has now been independently tested by industry experts in many countries over the last 30 years.

Penetrating Oil with Self-Healing Effect

CUTEK® timber oils protect from the inside out by actively displacing water throughout the wood and providing unsurpassed long-term protection against water damage. The protective components penetrate and stay PERMANENTLY MOBILE in the timber, migrating to any cut or perforation automatically sealing it against the damaging effects of moisture. It is this mobility and self-healing effect which makes CUTEK® the professional’s choice for long-term timber protection.

Note: Coatings that are not permanently mobile inside the wood and do not exhibit the self-healing effect ARE NOT the same as CUTEK® no matter what is claimed. Our first priority is always to extend and maximise the service life of timber NOT to steer you into the ecosystem of our other products.

Easy to Use and Maintain

To maximise your timber’s unique features, we have developed a simple 2 step system.

Step 1 PREPARE Enhance your wood by preparing it properly for coating.

Step 2 PROTECT Long-term protection that highlights the natural beauty of your timber and improves dimensional stability.

Each product in the CUTEK® system has been designed to be easy to use and reduce the manual labour required for timber protection.

Maintenance is quick, simple and cost effective. CUTEK® timber oils do not flake or peel meaning that you generally do not have to sand or strip again.

Technical Expertise

Problem Solver in the Market

CUTEK® began as a problem solver in the market. We understood that timber is beautiful, however because it is a natural resource, it can have some inherent problems when using it to create lasting structures. The original CUTEK® CD50 formula was created to displace water from timber, giving it increased dimensional stability. We have then evolved to create other formulas including CUTEK® Extreme CD50, CUTEK Euro®, CUTEK® ECO and the CUTEK® Machine Coat range, ensuring that we have a tailored made CUTEK® formula for all required applications.

CUTEK® is forever anticipating change and need. If someone wants to use timber in a unique way, or in a unique setting, we want to work alongside them, troubleshooting the problem towards an inspired solution.

We have always been, and always will be, champions for the use of the timber in the building industry. If you want to use it, we will help you find a way.

Chemical Lab Innovation

We care about your project, no matter how big or small. If your project uses timber, we want to be a part of it.

We are forever dreaming about different ways that timber can be used in the building industry and then imagining wood protection technologies that can help make those dreams a reality. We have an extensive Research and Development program (based in Queensland, Australia), that ensures our wood protection technology is always progressive and insightful, using the best resources and know-how available, to make wood protection products that actually works.

When new raw materials become available, we test them out to see what they can do. We are interested in new and exciting ways to protect timber, and we want to make sure that our products are always relevant, exceptional and in keeping with the latest in scientific advancement.

Staff with Expert Knowledge of the Building Industry

CUTEK® technical reps are all highly experienced and offer the best hands-on support in the business. Each and every one of them has worked in the timber, or the building, industries prior to working for CUTEK®.

Whether you need technical advice regarding timber itself or specialist knowledge on wood coatings, real help is only a phone call away.

We understand the frustration customers feel when they are forced to deal with a sales representative or a call centre when they have a serious question and need urgent advice. Our commitment is to provide real help, in real time, and help make your timber project, whatever it is, successful.

Dedicated Architectural Consultant

We acknowledge that Architects are at the forefront of design, trends and change in the building industry. We want to hear your design vision, and help turn that vision into a functional building that will stand the test of time. We have a dedicated Architectural Rep who can help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of using timber in your design. He then works hand in hand with our Lab to produce bespoke formulas that help meet unique specification goals. Timber is a beautiful building material, and we want to champion its use in modern and exciting new ways well into the future.

Exceptional Customer Service

Exceptional customer service is a core part of our company DNA. We want to make sure that each and every customer has a good experience when using CUTEK® – from the initial research and purchase of the product/s, all the way through to your project’s completion.

Our sales reps are friendly and accessible. They know what they are talking about and are more than willing to help you out. If you need advice on colour, timber species, product choice, project specification, use of the products, or just need help troubleshooting an issue, all of our team are ready and willing to help. We are simply a phone call away (0800 1 CUTEK).

CUTEK® understands that sometimes you are just not sure what product to use or what would look best on your timber. We want to help you get it right, the first time! CUTEK® offers samples of all of their products so that you can make the right choice for your project and so you can know you will be happy with the end result.

Why Choose Wood

Beauty

Timber comes in a variety of colours, tones and textures. Colour is dependent on the species of timber and where it was grown, whereas the grain pattern will indicate the state of the surrounding environment and weather conditions. Some species, while technically the same or similar, will differ greatly in aesthetic due to the trees location while planted and growing. For example, trees in dryer areas might have tighter grain patterns due to slower growth, while those in wetter areas may grow more quickly, affecting the wood’s texture and colour.

Warmth

As a natural material, timber exudes warmth and welcome. Studies[1] across the world have shown that natural building materials and décor can significantly improve people’s mental state and mood. This is why it’s such a popular material choice for the interior and exterior of homes.

Sustainable

Wood’s ability to be repurposed makes it a popular choice for those seeking to build in an environmentally sustainable manner. Repurposing wood reduces waste and the need for new materials, aiding in environmental conservation. Furthermore, timber which has been ethically sourced from plantations and forests ensures that the timber removed is also replaced for the future.

Versatile

Timber is an incredibly versatile building material. It is suitable for a variety uses, though some species of timber are better suited for certain projects than others. Some uses of timber include cladding, decking, furniture, pergolas, building structures, and fences.

Fire-resistant

Timber is not inherently fire-resistant in the way that materials like brick, concrete or steel are. However, it does possess certain characteristics that can make it perform differently in a fire compared to other materials.

When exposed to fire, the outer layers of timber will char. This charred layer acts as an insulating barrier, protecting the inner wood from further damage. The charring process can slow the rate at which the fire penetrates the timber, maintaining the structural integrity of the wood for a longer period compared to some other materials.

Certain timbers are naturally rated for BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) due to their inherent fire-resistant properties. Species like Merbau, Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, Red Ironbark, Silvertop Ash, and Turpentine have a natural resistance to fire and ember attack, making them suitable for use in bushfire-prone areas without requiring additional treatment. These timbers have a higher density and are less likely to catch fire easily, which qualifies them for use in constructions with specific BAL requirements. However, it’s important to verify their suitability for each BAL rating, as not all naturally fire-resistant timbers may meet the highest levels of bushfire attack standards.

BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) ratings are part of an Australian standard for construction in bushfire-prone areas. These ratings determine the level of bushfire attack and the associated risk to buildings. They guide the construction materials and methods to be used to improve a building’s resilience to bushfire attacks. BAL ratings range from low to extreme risk levels:

Flexible

Generally, timber is not recognised for its flexibility, but rather for its attributes of rigidity and strength. Despite this, it possesses a remarkable capacity for being worked and machined into complex profiles and shapes. Techniques such as steam bending and lamination enable the transformation of timber into bent or curved forms. While tools and machinery can work with almost all timber species, certain types exhibit superior suitability for detailed profiling and bending. These species, often chosen for their unique balance of flexibility and strength, allow for more intricate and durable designs in woodworking projects.

Durability

Timber is a naturally durable material, with varying species possessing varying degrees of strength and hardiness. Timber is categorised into varies classes which speak to the timber’s long-term durability when exposed to decay, pests and other environmental factors. Depending on the class of timber, some species have the ability to last for 50 years or more.

Status

As the cost of plywood, veneer panelling, and other various methods of cladding or structural materials become more common, timber is slowly becoming a more costly investment. As such, it is also becoming a status symbol. New high-end, designer homes are being clad in timber and include timber flooring or feature walls and decks.

Timber Solutions

Timber is one of the world’s most versatile and stunning natural resources. Each species possesses its own specific texture, colour, grain and growth pattern, with further variations found across species when grown in different countries and climates. As with any natural resource, timber comes with its own host of challenges and as a company in the business of overcoming challenges, CUTEK® offers solutions to many of these.

Warping, Cupping and Splitting

Timber is prone to warping, cupping and splitting which is primarily caused by uneven changes of moisture content in the wood.

Warping occurs when different parts of a wood piece absorb or lose moisture unevenly, leading to distortions like bowing or twisting.

Cupping happens when there’s a moisture content disparity between the top and bottom surfaces of the timber, causing it to bend into a cup-like shape.

Splitting is often due to rapid drying, where the outer layers shrink faster than the inner ones, creating internal tension that results in cracks or splits.

Wood is hygroscopic, and can absorb water as a liquid, if in contact with it, or in the form of vapour from the surrounding atmosphere.

Moisture can be present due to rainfall, humidity, dew, snow, to name a few.

To minimise the effects of moisture within timber, CUTEK® timber oils diffuse deep into the wood to actively displace and protect against moisture from the inside out. It is important to understand that it is the free exchange of liquid and gas phase moisture between wood and the environment that contributes to splitting, warping and cupping.

Please note, timber must be completely dry, with a moisture percentage of 17% or less, prior to being coated with CUTEK® oils.

Dimensional Stability/ / Keeping Timber Straight

As a natural resource, timber can be affected by its environment, especially moisture, which can affect its dimensional stability.

Timber shrinkage and swelling are the result of its hygroscopic behaviour, where wood fibres absorb moisture from the air (adsorption) or release it (desorption), influenced by the relative humidity and temperature of the environment.

The cellular structure of wood, composed of cell walls and cavities, plays a central role in this process. When the cell walls absorb moisture, they expand, causing the wood to swell, and as they lose moisture, they contract, leading to shrinkage.

Wood’s anisotropic nature means it responds differently along its different axes, with the greatest changes occurring tangentially, less so radially, and least along the longitudinal axis. Managing these factors is crucial in woodworking and construction to minimise the dimensional instability of wood products in service.

Once diffused into timber, CUTEK® timber oils will stabilise the timber by controlling free moisture exchange between the coated timber and the environment. Because CUTEK® is self-healing, this protection is permanent even if timber is damaged cut or perforated with fasteners. The result is improved dimensional stability, structural integrity and an extended service life.

Easy Maintenances

Timber is often used as a feature in residential and commercial builds where heavy foot-traffic occurs. To make matters more difficult, timber is a porous material which means that when it has been coated, the coating can be difficult to maintain.

Where film-forming coatings often require stripping and sanding to remove, the ease of CUTEK® coated timber is that it does not need to be sanded or stripped to apply a maintenance coat of oil. Simply wash, wait to dry, and reapply according to the provided instructions.

Keeping Timber Clean and Beautiful

As a stunning yet functional feature exposed to a variety of elements, timber will periodically need to be cleaned to be shown at its best.

Timber coated in CUTEK® repels water, meaning that washing timber won’t result in water-damage. CUTEK® Quickclean is the perfect way to regularly keep all your wood clean, and it prepares wood to optimise the performance of maintenance coats of CUTEK® oil. It will easily remove dirt, grease and grime from your outside surfaces as well as even out CUTEK® Colourtone that has started to wear or rode unevenly on your wood.

Note: CUTEK® Quickclean is a concentrate that should be diluted with water; the dilution will vary depending on the build-up of dirt or grease on the surface.

Colour Retention

Timber is naturally beautiful with stunning colours and grain features, but in a bid to protect timber from extreme environments, these features can soon disappear behind coatings. Similarly, exposure to UV rays can quickly lighten and silver timber, regardless of clear oil being applied. At CUTEK®, we want to highlight and retain timber’s natural beauty.

When seeking to retain the natural colour of a timber, CUTEK® offers a variety of Colourtones which complement and enhance the natural colour of a variety of timber species. This allows timber to retain its freshly oiled look long after the oil dries. CUTEK® also offers Colourtones which alter the colour of timber to suit design needs while still providing powerful protection.

For examples of this, visit our CUTEK® Colourtones page and explore our Colourtone Visualiser.

Wood Restoration

While some resources are single use only, timber can be reclaimed, restored, revived, and made into something new with a little bit of help.

Wood’s ability to be repurposed makes it both environmentally sustainable and aesthetically appealing. Its versatility and durability lend well to various applications, from furniture to construction. Repurposing wood reduces waste and the need for new materials, aiding in environmental conservation. Furthermore, the unique character and history of repurposed wood adds a distinct charm, making it a popular choice in design and crafts, highlighting its practical and artistic value.

CUTEK® Restore is a powerful timber cleaning agent that restores stained, weathered and grey wood back to its original appearance. It is effective in removing stubborn stains caused by tannins, water, iron, mould and fungus from timber. CUTEK® Restore will also brighten, clean and restore wood to look like new, ready for a fresh coat of CUTEK® oil.

Fungal Decay, Termite and Rot

Fungi and termites are one of the most difficult timber challenges to combat, but coating timber with a protective oil can help to mitigate the effect.

Termites and fungal decay in wood are primarily driven by the presence of moisture and the organic nature of wood. Termites feed on cellulose, a key component of wood, and are particularly attracted to moist or decaying wood, which is easier for them to digest. Fungal decay, on the other hand, occurs when wood’s moisture content exceeds 20%, providing an ideal environment for fungi to break down the wood’s cellulose and lignin, crucial for its structural strength.

CUTEK® wanted to provide the best possible protection against fungi and termites and so offer CUTEK® Wood Preservative. CUTEK® Wood Preservative is an oil-based wood stabiliser used for the pre-treatment and remedial treatment of exterior wood in industrial and domestic situations. CUTEK® Wood Preservative coated timber resists damage caused by fungal decay, mould, termites and moisture, improving dimensional stability and minimising warping, cupping and splitting.

Resellers & Distributors

We provide on-site training and support, project advice and problem solving for your staff.

We have also created an international marketing campaign structure which drives positive sales leads into your store and provides a great customer experience from start to finish.

Loyal, Repeat Customer Base
CUTEK®’s powerful protection and simplicity of maintenance has developed a loyal base of repeat users in New Zealand over the past 30 years under the CD50 brand. Once a customer uses CUTEK® timber oils, they usually become CUTEK® customers for life. This means regular, repeat business for our resellers.

Excellent Customer Service
We value and understand the importance of customer care. Our loyal customer following has grown by providing excellent customer service one customer at a time. Whether it is project advice, technical expertise, troubleshooting on-site, or finding a solution to a problem job, CUTEK® is here to help your customers.

Reseller Support
CUTEK® provides expert sales and technical support to resellers and end-users. We are committed to supporting your staff with increased CUTEK® sales through point-of-sale materials, in-store education and training and an always available sales team. To book a staff training day, or for one of our expert sales represenatives to attend a trade show, contact us today.

CUTEK® Helps Drive Sales Right Into Store
We actively engage in radio, print and online advertising forums wordwide. CUTEK® products are regularly specified on architecturally designed projects, and we are fast becoming the preferred timber protection solution for precoaters and many government projects in New Zealand, New Zealand and around the world. As a CUTEK® reseller, you will benefit from these ever-evolving marketing campaigns.

Manufacturers & Precoaters

CUTEK® have been pioneers for the development of speciality precoater/in-plant manufacturer products that are cost-effective and machine/user friendly for over 30 years in many countries around the world. We understand machines and coatings, and work extensively with pre-oil machine manufacturers and timber producers to bring added value to your timber products. If you want to work with a company that cares about your bottom line, and is highly technical in this field, contact our in-house precoating experts today.

Operator and Machine Friendly
CUTEK® oils are fast and easy to use in pre-oiling machines. CUTEK® oils are a very low maintenance machine solution with fast daily start-up and shutdown – no need to clean after every run. Cleaning, if required, is simple and easy.

Proven Safe
CUTEK® is proven safe in a factory situation – unlike many other products that contain vegetable oils where extra attention must be paid to fire risk caused by spontaneous combustion of oily rags etc.

Bespoke Solutions and Customized Colours
We understand the intricacies of the precoating and timber industry and markets. When businesses partner with CUTEK® for their pre-oiling solution, they are not locked into one formula. We actively work with each precoat operation to ensure that their coating formula and colour solution matches their machine and environmental and cost requirements of their target market.

Cost-Effective and Time-Efficient
Wood freshly coated with CUTEK® oil can be installed straight away or block stacked wet for later use. That is faster turnaround times for you and your clients. CUTEK® oils can also obtain incredibly high spreading rates without compromising efficacy leading to lower cost per lineal metre compared to many other applications on the market.

Government and Council Projects

CUTEK® offers market leading solutions that help governments and councils protect timber in public spaces and save time and money on timber repair and maintenance. New Zealand owned and operated, CUTEK® is renowned for being innovators in the marketplace and have the technical knowledge and expertise to achieve the right outcome for government and council projects.

A Cost-Effective Timber Protection Plan that Works
CUTEK® offers governments and councils a timber protection plan that meets budget requirements and actually works. CUTEK® timber oils are easy to apply and maintain – simply clean and reapply – which reduces labour costs and increases efficiency. CUTEK® oils have a high coverage rate and the superior technology and accumulative protection of maintenance coats provides the longest possible service life.

Serious Sustainability in our DNA
The very purpose for the creation of CUTEK® products was to maximise the service life of timber. It is a simple equation:

Extension of the service life of timber = less trees cut down as their replacement

We manufacture using high-grade raw materials and renewable resources and formulate products with lower VOCs to minimise our carbon footprint. We also plant one tree for every can of CUTEK® oil sold.

Technical Expertise and Advice
Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are technical experts in timber and coatings. We work closely with government and councils to ensure that environmental, efficacy, budget and stakeholder goals are achieved. We also liaise and support government/council staff or subcontractors in the application in maintenance process.

New Zealand Innovation that Can be Tailorde to Meet Project Requirements
CUTEK® solutions are birthed out of solving problems for the New Zealand timber industry. Our innovative timber protection technologies and have become internationally recognised as leaders in the timber protection industry. We understand that the requirements of different projects can be different and we can formulate unique solutions to protect government/council project.

Consumers & Applicators

The CUTEK® system powerfully protects timber and has been designed to be easy to use and maintain; beginners can achieve professional results. Our knowledgeable staff are experts in the timber, construction and coatings industry and can provide you with the right advice on how to achieve the best possible look and protection outcomes for your timber project.

Easy to Use Maintain
Each product in the CUTEK® system has been designed to be easy to use and reduce the manual labour required for timber protection. Maintenance is quick, simple and cost effective. CUTEK® timber oils do not flake or peel meaning you do not have to sand or strip again.

The Right Colour for Your Project
We offer 16 different CUTEK® Colourtones to match the natural hue of your timber or alter the colour of your timber to match your overall design aesthetic. Our colour visualiser chart provides an indication of how each CUTEK® Colourtone would look on your timber.

Long-term Protection
CUTEK® products were designed to maximise the service life of timber. Once CUTEK® timber oil has penetrated into your timber, it will remain permanently mobile in your timber driving out moisture. Each maintenance coat of CUTEK® timber oil has an accumulative protection effect with the oils diffusing deeper into the woods core.

Excellent Technical Advice & Customer Service
The CUTEK® brand has grown by providing excellent customer service one customer at a time. We are timber and coating experts; so, whether it is project advice, technical expertise, troubleshooting or finding a solution to a problem job, CUTEK® is here to help.

International

CUTEK® is a award winning global brand in the wood protection industry that originally began right her in Aotearoa, New Zealand. For the past three decades, CUTEK® products have been used in many countries and vastly different environments to protect and enhance timber. Whether it be the snowy mountains of Canada, the rainforests of Chile, the humid sub-tropics of Asia, or the outback deserts of New Zealand, CUTEK® is there to powerfully protect the natural beauty and service life of wood.

Timber Species

There is nothing like the look and feel of timber. The grain and texture of timber adds warmth and depth to a project and is a feature building material in architectural designed homes, commercial projects and government buildings and public spaces. 

At CUTEK®, we believe timber is the star. Our products are designed to celebrate the natural beauty of wood and powerfully protect it to extend service life. Many of our staff are timber experts and have spent decades in the timber and construction industries. We understand the characteristics and nuances of native and imported timber species and love to share our technical expertise. 

There is an enormous variety of timber species available and each of them offer a unique charm made up of different grain patterns, colours, and performance characteristics. Find out more about the appearance, texture, properties and applications of a range of popular timber species used in the New Zealand market. 

Blackbutt
Scientific Name: Eucalyptus pilularis
Other names: Coastal Blackbutt, Pink Blackbutt.

Blackbutt is a readily available commercial Australian hardwood that is commonly used for structural and exterior installations. Blackbutt grows quickly so is easy to regenerate as plantation timber – making it a sound environmental choice. Its name describes the buttress or butt of a tree after a bushfire when it becomes significantly darker. It is also known as Coastal Blackbutt, which helps distinguish from a different species, New England Blackbutt.

Distribution: Blackbutt is found in the coastal regions of New South Wales and Southern Queensland.

Texture: Blackbutt has an even texture and usually has a straight grain, however it is sometimes interlocked. Gum veins are also quite common in Blackbutt.

Appearance: The heartwood ranges from golden yellow to pale brown, sometimes with a pinkish hue. The sapwood is even paler. Plantation Blackbutt tends to have a less varied, and a more even appearance than wild Blackbutt.

Properties: Blackbutt is a very dense and highly durable hardwood with natural resistance to termites and fire. It also has a high extractives content with a tendency to surface check on the tangential face.

Application: Versatile Blackbutt can be used for a range of structural, exterior and interior applications including building framework, decking, flooring, posts and poles. It can also be used for cladding or in engineering applications such as bridge construction or sleepers.

The species is strong and highly durable making it a good choice for exterior decking and areas with high footfall. It lends itself well to CUTEK’s timber protection oil, and the Colourtones can also be used to enhance the look.

Blackbutt’s even appearance also makes it a popular choice for interior installations and joinery. The timber can be stained, painted or polished. The wood has a tendency to surface check after painting due to a high level of extractives associated with mature timber. Surface checking can be more marked when used outdoors and exposed to the elements. Blackbutt stands up to tough climatic conditions and is a great choice when durability is paramount or in areas prone to bushfires.

Where it is grown: Blackbutt is found in the coastal regions of New South Wales and Southern Queensland.

Douglas Fir
Scientific Name: Pseudotsuga menziesii
Other names: Douglas Spruce, Oregon Pine, Red Fir

Douglas Fir is a medium to large North American softwood that has found its way across the globe due to its versatility, strength, and commercial value. Historically significant in the timber industry, it has played a critical role in construction and woodworking for over a century.The name “Douglas Fir” honours David Douglas, a Scottish botanist who first documented the tree. It’s important to note that despite its common name, Douglas Fir is not a true fir, spruce or pine.

Distribution: Originally native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, Douglas Fir forests stretch from British Columbia in Canada to Mexico. It has also been introduced as a plantation species to other countries including New Zealand.

Texture: Douglas Fir generally exhibits a medium to coarse texture, and its grain is typically straight, with occasional wavy patterns imparting a unique character.

Appearance: The heartwood of Douglas Fir ranges from a light yellowish-brown to a moderate reddish-brown, which contrasts with its paler sapwood. Over time, and especially with exposure to sunlight, its colour can deepen, enhancing its natural beauty.

Properties: Douglas Fir is known for its impressive strength-to-weight ratio, making it one of the strongest softwoods available. This strength, coupled with its stiffness and moderate durability, makes it especially suited for structural applications.

Application: The superior strength of Douglas Fir makes it a prime choice for a variety of construction purposes, including timber framing, flooring, and plywood. Its workability, combined with its beautiful grain and colour variations, also makes it a Favorite for furniture, veneer, and cabinetry. When it comes to finishing, Douglas Fir accepts stains, paints, and varnishes well, allowing for a wide range of aesthetic finishes, from rustic to polished. With its blend of utility and beauty, Douglas Fir remains a staple in the woodworking and construction industries. Whether employed structurally or aesthetically, its presence often denotes quality and endurance.

Where it is grown: Originally native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, Douglas Fir forests stretch from British Columbia in Canada to Mexico. It has also been introduced as a plantation species to other countries including New Zealand.

Garapa
Scientific Name: Apuleia leiocarpa
Other names: Grapia, Brazilian Ash, Muirajuba

Garapa is a medium sized hardwood native to South America, particularly found in Brazil. The name “Garapa” originates from its Brazilian roots, while “Brazilian Ash” provides a nod to its appearance, which can resemble ash woods.

Distribution: Garapa mainly grows in the tropical regions of South America, with Brazil being its primary source. It thrives in these climates, often in well-drained hilly terrains.

Texture: Garapa showcases a fine to medium texture, often consistent and with a moderate natural lustre. The grain is usually straight but can occasionally be wavey and interlocked.

Appearance: Garapa heartwood exhibits a light golden-yellow to soft brown tone, which tends to darken slightly with age and UV exposure. Its sapwood is narrow and a distinctive paler yellow colour.

Properties: Garapa is a moderately hard, dense and naturally durable wood, well-suited for outdoor applications. Garapa works reasonably well with both hand and power tools, though its interlocked grain might sometimes present a challenge. Glues, screws and finishes well, pre drilling is advisable. Stainless steel fixings are recommended as it is prone to iron stain.

Application: Garapa’s properties make it ideal for exterior projects, with decking being one of its most common uses. Its natural resilience and density also make it suitable for outdoor furniture, cladding, fencing, landscaping and outdoor structures. The attractive look of Garapa wood see it being used for flooring, panelling and joinery.

Where it is grown: Garapa mainly grows in the tropical regions of South America, with Brazil being its primary source. It thrives in these climates, often in well-drained hilly terrains.

Larch
Scientific Name: Larix decidua
Other names: European Larch

Larch is an attractive decorative timber with a prominent grain. Knots are small, numerous and tight. Used for exterior applications, framing and flooring.

Distribution: Although Larch is indigenous to central Europe, it has been extensively planted in New Zealand and the United Kingdom for timber production.

Texture: Larch typically exhibits a relatively fine to medium texture, and the grain is generally straight but can sometimes be spiral or wavy.

Appearance: The heartwood of Larch ranges from a yellow to medium reddish-brown colour, while the sapwood is noticeably paler. Over time, the heartwood can darken, creating more contrast with the sapwood. Growth rings are prominent, defined by denser and darker latewood, knots are usually small, tight and numerous.

Properties: Larch is a moderately dense softwood that provides excellent strength and hardness for a softwood species. Larch has a high proportion of heartwood and also a good degree of natural resistance to decay, when used above ground. The heartwood is difficult to impregnate with preservatives. Relatively easy to work and glue, but can have a corrosive action on steel nails.

Application: The natural durability, strength, and aesthetic appeal of Larch make it suitable for a variety of applications. It is commonly used in construction for building framework, panelling, joinery, cladding, pergolas, fencing, and landscaping. Larch’s combination of strength, durability, and beauty, along with its sustainability, make it a highly valued softwood. It offers an attractive and practical choice for a variety of woodworking projects, from construction to furniture making.

Macrocarpa
Scientific Name: Cupressus macrocarpa
Other names: Monterey Cypress, Macrocarpa Cypress

Macrocarpa is a large hardy softwood that’s native to the central coast of California. Brought to New Zealand in the 1860s and mainly planted for shelter belts, now this versatile timber is found growing throughout New Zealand. The name Macrocarpa is derived from the Greek word’s “macros” meaning large and “carpos” meaning fruit, referring to the tree’s large cones. Monterey Cypress is a reference to its place of origin.

Distribution: Macrocarpa is native to California, particularly the Monterey Peninsula. However, it’s widely grown in many other parts of the world, including New Zealand, South Africa, Great Britain, and parts of South America.

Texture: Macrocarpa features a fine and even texture with visible growth rings and usually straight grained. However, grain patterns can be quite varied, often adding to the wood’s character. Ray tissue gives the wood a lustrous appearance similar to that of hoop or kauri.

Appearance: Macrocarpa heartwood is a distinctive golden yellow brown, while the sapwood is considerably paler. Older trees tend to be darker in colour.

Properties: Macrocarpa is a low shrinkage medium-density softwood that offers good durability and reasonable strength. It has a natural degree of resistance to decay and insect attacks once sawn and dried. It’s easy to work with, machines and glues well, although it can be difficult to steam bend. Air dries well, but difficult to kiln dry, suffering from cell collapse and checking.

Application: Macrocarpa’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. It’s often used for interior joinery, panelling, furniture, and crafts due to its appealing colour and ease of workability. It’s also used for outdoor applications like doors and windows, cladding, fencing, pergolas, and landscaping, as it exhibits a decent resistance to weathering and decay. When finished, Macrocarpa can display a rich, lustrous glow that enhances its natural colour. It takes well to clear finishes, which showcase its grain and colour variations, and to stains that can provide a more uniform appearance. Despite being a softwood, Macrocarpa’s durability and workability make it a practical choice for both interior and exterior projects. Its natural beauty, along with the sustainable farming practices associated with it, make Macrocarpa an attractive and eco-friendly option for many woodworking projects.

Where it is grown: Macrocarpa is native to California, particularly the Monterey Peninsula. However, it’s widely grown in many other parts of the world, including New Zealand, South Africa, Great Britain, and parts of South America.

Kwila (Merbau)
Scientific Name: Intsia Bijuga
Other names: Kwila, Ipil, Vesi.

Merbau is a popular hardwood used across a variety of engineering, construction and marine applications. It often features in backyards as outdoor furniture and decking and can be used in internal joinery and flooring. Native Merbau can grow up to 40 metres in height and have a trunk diameter of 60cm. Merbau is a versatile, durable and strong. Merbau is a popular choice for timber decking due to its durability and attractive deep reddish-brown appearance.

Distribution: Grown in tropical forests, Merbau is grown in South East Asia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines,Solomon Islands, Fiji and North Queensland. New Zealandn Merbau is largely sourced from Queensland plantations.

Texture: Moderately course but even, grain prone to slightly interlock to produce an attractive ribbon figure on radial face.

Appearance: Merbau is a premium hardwood with an attractive timber with deep a deep, re-brown tone and an alluring grain and texture.

Properties: Very durable hardwood, difficult to impregnate with preservatives, rather greasy to the touch, quite resistant to termites, gum bleed is a possibility.

Application: Merbau is a popular hardwood used across a variety of engineering, construction and marine applications and has a long history of use in infrastructure projects including bridges, buildings, sleepers, posts, wharves and mining. Merbau It often used as an exterior building material on residential homes and commercial building. In particular, this premium timber is a favourite in timber decking and cladding applications where the rich colour, strength, durability and minimal shrinkage are important. It is also used in outdoor furniture. Internally, Merbau is utilised in internal joinery, flooring and panelling. It is also a good timber for turning, carvery, veneers and cross-arms. Certified Merbau that is sourced from legal and well managed forests is also an environmentally friendly option. When CUTEK’s timber protection is applied to external applications, Merbau’s key attributes – durability and detailed grain – are protected and enhanced.

Where it is grown: Grown in tropical forests, Merbau is grown in South East Asia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands, Fiji and North Queensland. New Zealandn Merbau is largely sourced from Queensland plantations.

Purpleheart
Scientific Name: Peltogyne spp
Other names: Amaranth, Violet Wood

Purpleheart is an exotic hardwood that is native to Central and South America. It is highly coveted for its unique colouration, strength, and durability. The name “Purpleheart” describes the heartwood’s distinct purple colour, while “Amaranth” and “Violet Wood” are other names associated with its coloration.

Distribution: Purpleheart trees are predominantly found in the tropical regions of Central and South America, with significant growth in countries such as Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname.

Texture: Purpleheart typically exhibits a fine to medium texture with a generally straight, sometimes wavy or irregular grain. The wood is known for its high natural lustre.

Appearance: Heartwood is brown when freshly cut, quickly changing to a purple colour. by its name, Purpleheart is most recognized for its distinctive heartwood colour, which ranges from a bright violet to a deep purple, turning dark brown over time with exposure to UV light. The sapwood contrasts sharply with a cream or yellowish grey colour.

Properties: Purpleheart is a dense, extremely strong wood with high durability and resistance to decay and insect attacks. Its hardness can make it challenging to work with, but it results in excellent durability for finished projects. Despite its hardness, Purpleheart works relatively well with both hand and power tools, but sharp tools are a must due to its density. It also glues and finishes well.

Application: Purpleheart’s unique colour, strength and high durability make it suitable for a range of applications. It’s is used in furniture, high-quality joinery and speciality items like wood turning, decorative veneers, inlays and marquetry. Its strength and durability also make it a great choice heavy construction work such as bridge building, dock work, beams and posts. It is also popular for use as decking, flooring, cladding and pergolas. Purpleheart’s unique colouration, durability, and strength make it a standout choice for projects where aesthetic appeal and longevity are paramount.

Where it is grown: Purpleheart trees are predominantly found in the tropical regions of Central and South America, with significant growth in countries such as Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname.

Radiata Pine
Scientific Name: Araucaria Cunninghamii

Hoop Pine is a New Zealand native softwood beloved for its versatility. Its easy use has ensured it is a popular choice for many internal and external applications. Having a light-coloured grain, Hoop Pine is also a favourite of designers who use stains and paints to achieve a desired aesthetic at an affordable price. Hoop Pine trees can grow up to 60 metres tall and is recognised by its rough bark that naturally splits and peels easily. Plantations situated in the rainforests of Northern New South Wales and Queensland and the primary sources of this timber in New Zealand.

Distribution: Mainly grown in the rainforests of northern New South Wales and Queensland, however it is also harvested in the mountain regions of Papua New Guinea.

Texture: Very fine and even straight grain wood.

Appearance: Heartwood is a pale yellow-brown colour while sapwood is 15mm wide and almost white in appearance. Grain is straight with visible but not distinct growth rings. Compression wood regularly occurs and is indicated by darker coloured wood.

Properties: Easy to dry but care required to avoid bluestain, prone to split due to spiral grain, easy to work but knots do not machine easily, unsuitable for steam bending, untreated heartwood durability not sufficient for external use, susceptible to hoop pine borer attack in tropical areas.

Application: This timber is a favourite across a variety of applications in the construction and manufacturing industry. When treated, Hoop Pine is suitable for outdoor purposes such as fencing, decking, landscaping and playground equipment. Pine is used indoors for most general timber construction applications such as plywood, joinery, flooring, panelling, boxes and shelving. Its ease of use makes it a viable choice for a range of manufacturing purposes, such as musical instruments, paint brushes and furniture. Gluing, painting, staining and polishing Hoop Pine is a simple process and it is conducive to machining and turning. It is also compatible with fittings and fastenings. Hoop pine is more vulnerable to warping, cupping and shrinkage than hardwoods. Application of a wood protector like CUTEK’s wood protection oil assists to increase the useful life of this versatile timber. Add a colourtone to your CUTEK oil and you can achieve the aesthetic you desire.

Where it is grown: Mainly grown in the rainforests of northern New South Wales and Queensland, however it is also harvested in the mountain regions of Papua New Guinea.

Rimu
Scientific Name: Dacrydium cupressinum
Other names: Red Pine, New Zealand Red Pine

Rimu is a superior building wood, and was commonly used by early colonists in constructing houses, cabinets and furniture. Rimu is sourced from sustainably managed resources, strictly monitored and audited by MAF. and when available, used for flooring, interior joinery, cabinetmaking and furniture

Distribution: Rimu is indigenous to New Zealand, where it grows in both North and South Islands, with the largest concentration found on the west coast of the South Island.

Texture: Rimu typically has a fine, even texture. The grain is generally straight.

Appearance: Rimu heartwood is known for its beautiful rich reddish-brown to yellow-brown with irregular dark streaks, often featuring a slight sheen. The sapwood is pale brown and even in colour. There is often an intermediate zone of varied light brown coloured wood creating an interesting shade of colour and grain.

Properties: Rimu is a medium density softwood with the heartwood being moderately durable, with good strength and elasticity. It’s easy to work with both hand and machine tools, glues well and is an excellent finishing timber. Care to be taken when nailing, can split.

Application: Rimu is highly prized for interior applications, such as flooring, panelling, mouldings and fine furniture, thanks to its stunning visual appeal. Heartwood can be also be used for external joinery particularly in house construction. However, for outdoor applications, it must be properly treated to resist decay.

Where it is grown: Rimu is indigenous to New Zealand, where it grows in both North and South Islands, with the largest concentration found on the west coast of the South Island.

Spotted Gum
Scientific Name: Corymbia maculata (syn. Eucalyptus maculata)

New Zealand native Spotted Gum is one of the better-known Eucalypts. The tall growing tree has a distinctive trunk ‘spotted’ with patches of old bark that contrast with the smooth, lighter bark that lies beneath. Considered a premium hardwood, the species is commonly used in a wide range of structural, exterior and interior applications. Architects and designers turn to Spotted Gum time and again for its striking appearance and natural durability.

Distribution: Spotted Gum is a dominant species found on New Zealand’s East Coast from Victoria through the coastal regions of New South Wales and as far North as Maryborough in Queensland.

Texture: Moderately course and even; the grain is usually interlocked.

Appearance: Spotted Gum is a striking timber species with attractive markings and a broad spectrum of colour. Compared to other New Zealandn hardwoods, Spotted Gum is less prone to bleed-through of tannins, therefore is less likely to stain.

Properties: Highly durable, extremely hard and dense, slightly greasy nature, high extractives content, termite resistant, naturally a bushfire resistant timber.

Application: Spotted Gum has a long history of use for industrial purposes including mining timber, wharves, bridge construction and boat building. This premium species is dense making it a popular choice for timber portal frames, cladding, timber decking, retaining walls and landscaping projects. Spotted Gum is also commonly used to create striking internal flooring, furniture and decorative parquetry. It is also a good timber for carving and woodturning. This sustainably harvested New Zealandn timber is an environmentally sound choice. Used outdoors, Spotted Gum can be protected from the elements by CUTEK’s timber protection system for longevity and retained good looks.

Where it is grown: Spotted Gum is a dominant species found on New Zealand’s East Coast from Victoria through the coastal regions of New South Wales and as far North as Maryborough in Queensland.

Vitex (Pacific Teak)
Common Name: Vitex, Pacific Teak
Scientific Name: Vitex Cofassus

Vitex, otherwise known as Pacific Teak or New Guinea Teak, is a popular timber for interior and exterior timber applications. Growing up to 40 metres tall, Vitex is considered a medium to large deciduous tree. Grown in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, Vitex’s density, pale colour and durable properties make it popular and much sought-after light hardwood. Stable and durable, Vitex is considered a versatile timber species that withstands weathering and requires minimal maintenance.

Distribution: Common in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands and plantations extend through Indonesia to Malaysia.

Texture: Fine and even.

Appearance: Heartwood is a pale yellow-brown with a slight grey shade whilst sapwood is a pale yellow. Grain can be straight or very interlocked.

Properties: Very durable with minimal shrinkage (radial 2%, tangential 4%), interlocked grain sections can be difficult to work, greasy in nature, high water soluble extractives can discolour water based coatings, easily accepts stains, paints, waxes, polishes and varnishes, heartwood resistant to termites, sapwood susceptible to lyctid borers.

Application: Due to stability and durability characteristics, Vitex is a popular choice for exterior cladding and decking. It is often utilised in designs that desire the ‘weathered look’ as the light pale colour gracefully lightens to silver. When kiln dried, Vitex is suitable for joinery. It machines well with rips and cross cuts easy. Greasy nature makes it difficult to use in applications when glue is required. Excluding material with interlocked grain, Vitex is easy to work and can be used in musical instruments and domestic utensils. Naturally less susceptible to cupping and warping, Vitex is utilised in marine type environments such as boat flooring and bridge decking. Applying one of CUTEK®’s range of exterior wood protection oils will enhance the stability and durability properties of Vitex and improve service life.

Where it is grown: Grown in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, Vitex’s density, pale colour and durable properties make it popular and much sought-after light hardwood.

Western Red Cedar
Scientific Name: Thuja plicata
Other names: Giant Arbor-vitae, British Columbia Red Cedar, Red Cedar, Canoe Cedar

An evergreen coniferous tree native to North America. Western Red Cedar wood is a large, tall tree which grows up to 65m in height. It has dark reddish-brown bark that is deeply textured, with a dense canopy and the leaves are fern-like in appearance.

Distribution: A large North America softwood found in areas of British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana

Texture: WRC has a fine texture and prominent growth rings, straight grained and not resinous.

Appearance: Heartwood ranges from honey colour or pale brown to dark rich browns. Sapwood is a paler yellowish white. Older timber is usually darker in colour

Properties: Western Red Cedar is a durable and dimensionally stable non-structural soft wood with natural resistance to insect attack. Its low density gives good thermal and acoustic properties.

Application: Easy to work with, machines, finishes and glues well, although care must be taken when machining cross-grain as it is brittle and tends to chip out if the tooling is not sharp. Caution must be taken when sanding and machining as the fine sawdust can cause respiratory irritation for some people. The extractives content of Western Red Cedar can be corrosive to iron and copper. Stainless steel and hot dipped galvanised fittings along with silicone bronze nails are commonly used to avoid the black discolouration that can occur around the fixings in areas likely to experience any dampness. A beautiful and aromatic sustainable timber that can be used for a wide range of applications. Excellent dimensional stability and workability means that it can be machined into intricate architectural profiles. It is an ideal timber for external and internal joinery, cladding, screening, panelling, shingles, furniture, saunas, windows and doors. Western Red Cedars natural beauty and colours can be retained and protected by using CUTEK® Interior for internal or out of weather applications. Western Red Cedar’s natural durability for outdoor use can also be supported by the application of CUTEK® Extreme CD50 or CUTEK® Wood Preservative which will give additional dimensional stability and protection against moisture, increasing the service life of the timber even in the harshest of environments.

Where it is grown: Western Red Cedar is grown in North America in areas of British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana.

FAQs

Are CUTEK® oils safe for playgrounds and play equipment? 
Yes. CUTEK® oils are safe and effective for timber playgrounds and play equipment. As a penetrative oil, once the CUTEK® has fully penetrated into the timber, it is unlikely to leave residue when touched or brushed against.

How long can I store CUTEK® Extreme CD50 for?
CUTEK® Extreme CD50 can be stored for one year or more and reused for the next coating season, when stored correctly. To store correctly, store in a cool, dry area out of direct sunlight; lid must be airtight. If the lid has been damaged, the remaining contents may be tipped into another compatible container (HDPE or Lined metal containers). Minimising the air space in the can will also increase the storage life of the product. 

If the oil has been tinted with a CUTEK® Colourtone, the colour may settle out and be difficult to stir in again if some time has passed. Use caution when mixing new and old CUTEK® Oils that have been coloured with a CUTEK® Colourtone; there may be some discrepancies in colour due to storage.

How long can I store CUTEK® Restore/CUTEK® Quickclean/CUTEK® Wood Stripper for?
CUTEK® Restore, CUTEK® Quickclean and CUTEK® Wood Stripper can be stored for many years after initial use. To store correctly, store in a cool, dry area out of direct sunlight; lid must be airtight. Keep from freezing. 

How long can I store CUTEK® Colourtones for? 
After use, CUTEK® Colourtones generally do not require storing because they are a one-use product. If the Colourtone can contents have solidified, do not use the Colourtone. Instead, dispose of the can and contents according to local regulations.

What do I use to clean up a CUTEK® oil spill?
Time is of the essence. For best results clean up the excess with rags and then work the stain with CUTEK® Quickclean in water to remove as much of the spill as possible. If CUTEK® Quickclean is not available, then mix dishwashing liquid into warm water with some mineral turpentine if possible and work the stain with this mixture. 

What are the PPE and safety requirements when using CUTEK® products?
Before you use any CUTEK® product, you must always read the product label in it's entirety as well as follow the specific directions outlined on the applicable CUTEK® Safety Data Sheet/s which you can download here

The PPE and safety requirements will vary depending on what CUTEK® product/s you are using. 

Is there any warranty on CUTEK® products? 
While CUTEK® products are manufactured to the highest standard, we are unable to offer any specific performance warranties related to protection and/or colour retention because of the wide variation of possible applications and purposes for CUTEK® products. These variables include but are not limited to: the age and porosity of the wood, species, situation, design and structure, aspect, differing exposure to the weather and adequacy of preparation. 

 CUTEK® will not accept liability for: 

  • the application of incorrect colour to any substrate for any reason 
  • the application of CUTEK® to wood with a moisture content greater than 17% 
  • the application of CUTEK® to any substrate with a pre-existing coating 

Further, while some manufacturers choose to specify CUTEK® materials for use with their own products, CUTEK® is not included or involved with any independent warranties issued by a specific manufacturer or distributor in relation to their own product. 

CUTEK® provides free sample test pots of our products to help you determine whether one of our products is suitable for your project. We ALWAYS recommend testing our products prior to application. Please order a free sample from our website or contact your closest reseller. 

I have new shingles – I want them to silver with age Clear CUTEK® Extreme CD50 will protect your shingles while allowing them to naturally silver with age. Alternatively, you can mix in a “Pumice Grey” CUTEK® Colourtone to silver the shingles from the beginning. DO NOT use CUTEK® oils on roofs that are used to collect drinking water.

I want to protect my new wood, but I want it to naturally silver with age. 

For exterior timber, applying CUTEK® Extreme CD50 as a clear oil will protect the wood against moisture while allowing it to naturally lighten/silver to a natural patina over time as long as it is exposed to the sun.

 What about natural oils? They’re supposed to be good for wood.

Most natural oils claim to be ‘penetrating oils’ but will actually contain drying oils/resins and evaporating solvents which form a traditional varnish/film type encapsulation coating once the VOC solvents in the formula have evaporated. Once this surface type coating has been degraded by weathering, cutting or fastener perforation, water may freely enter the timber leading to significant cupping and splitting. 

Many ‘natural’ oils may develop unsightly mould and fungal growth on the coated surface and beneath subsequently applied coatings when exposed to the natural exterior environment. This situation can be difficult and costly to fix. 

Additionally, many natural oil type formulations have very high VOC levels (often >50%). This means that a cheaper high VOC natural oil type product may become a more expensive choice when the amount of product that actually remains active in the coated timber is calculated. 

What is a VOC? Broadly speaking volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are organic chemical compounds whose composition makes it possible for them to evaporate under normal atmospheric conditions of temperature and pressure. “Volatile” describes a liquid that evaporates at room temperature, and the word “organic” generally means it is a compound that contains carbon. Most CUTEK® oils have significantly lower VOC’s (ASTM2369) than other oil-based wood coatings. What this translates to is much better value for money for the user of CUTEK® products as more of the product penetrates and stays in the timber without evaporating off to the environment.

Can I use CUTEK® timber oils inside?
No, CUTEK® timber oils CUTEK® Extreme CD50 ) should not be used for interior timber applications. CUTEK® exterior oils contain small amounts of copper salts that may impart a faint green hue that could be accentuated by the presence of some extractives found in very light or white coloured substrates. Although this is not common, it is more likely to occur in an interior application or in areas not exposed to UV light. Some commonly used light coloured timber species used internally where this may be an issue are Hoop Pine, Hemlock, Tasmanian Oak and Victorian Ash (list not exhaustive). CUTEK® manufacture a copper free option called CUTEK® Euro which may be suitable for use on light-coloured timbers in this situation. Please contact us for technical advice prior to attempting to use CUTEK® exterior oils inside. How Is CUTEK® different?

CUTEK® Exterior timber oils true penetrating oils with a self healing effect

CUTEK® timber oils offer powerful protection while enhancing the natural beauty of timber. CUTEK® timber oils diffuse deeply into timber to repel moisture, maintain structural integrity and ensure the longest possible service life. 

What sets CUTEK® timber oil apart is it’s ‘self-healing’ action. Once diffused, CUTEK® oil remain permanently mobile in the timber actively driving out moisture to minimise cupping, warping and splitting, even after being cut or perforated with fasteners. CUTEK® penetrating oils have a 30-year proven track record of standing up to our challenging New Zealand climate and harsh environments around the world. 

Traditional varnish and natural oil ‘penetrating’ type coatings work by forming a protective film on the surface of the wood to protect against moisture damage. Over time, UV rays and timber movement break down this film causing it to degrade, flake or peel. This allows water to get into the timber which will leads to cupping, warping, splitting and rot. Rectification is costly and time consuming as the old coating will need to stripped away before reapplying. 

CUTEK® is different. CUTEK® timber oils penetrate deep into the wood core and drive moisture out of the wood from the inside. This offers superior long-term protection and minimises cupping, warping and splitting. This penetrating oil technology ensures the longest possible service life for your timber. It has been proven to work and has been independently tested by industry experts in many countries over the last 30 years. 

CUTEK® timber oils protect from the inside out by actively displacing water throughout the wood and providing unsurpassed long-term protection against water damage. The protective components penetrate and stay PERMANENTLY MOBILE in the timber, migrating to any cut or perforation automatically sealing it against the damaging effects of moisture. It is this mobility and self-healing effect which makes CUTEK® the professional’s choice for long-term timber protection. 

NOTE: Coatings that are not permanently mobile inside the wood and do not exhibit the self-healing effect ARE NOT the same as CUTEK® no matter what is claimed. Our first priority is always to extend and maximise the service life of timber NOT to steer you into the ecosystem of our other products. 

To maximise your timber’s unique features, we have developed a simple 2 step system. 

Step 1: PREPARE Enhance your wood by preparing it properly for coating 

 Step 2: PROTECT Long-term protection that highlights the natural beauty of your timber and improves dimensional stability. 

Each product in the CUTEK® system has been designed to be easy to use and reduce the manual labour required for timber protection. 

Maintenance is quick, simple and cost effective. CUTEK® timber oils do not flake or peel meaning that you generally do not have to sand or strip again. 

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