STEP 1: PREPARATION
To ensure Cutek Extreme performs effectively, it must be able to diffuse deeply into the wood fibers. Any barriers to penetration—such as existing non-Cutek coatings, trapped moisture, or insufficient drying time—must be resolved before application.
Cutek Extreme should only be applied to wood that is clean, dry, and free of grease. The moisture content must be below 17%. Proper preparation is essential for a successful finish.
New Wood
Wood must be bare, clean, and dry. If the surface shows contaminants like water marks, iron stains, tannins, or mill glaze, we recommend using Cutek Wood Reviver before applying Cutek Extreme.
Old, Greyed, or Weathered Uncoated Wood
Aged, dirty, or greyed wood should be restored using Cutek Wood Reviver. This process removes the silvering and restores the wood's original color and grain before you apply Cutek Extreme.
Wood Previously Coated with Non-Cutek Products
Cutek Extreme requires bare wood for proper diffusion. Previous film-forming coatings—such as stains, linseed oil, paint, polyurethane, or water-based oils—will block penetration and must be removed. Use Cutek Wood Stripper followed by Cutek Wood Reviver, or perform a deep mechanical sanding to reach bare wood.
Wood Previously Coated with Cutek Extreme
For routine maintenance, use Cutek Quickclean to remove grease and surface grime. If maintenance has been neglected and the wood has greyed, become heavily stained, or has an excessive build-up of Cutek Colourtone, use Cutek Wood Reviver to refresh the substrate before recoating.
Determining Suitability
To confirm if Cutek Extreme is right for your specific project, we recommend testing a pre-mixed sample available from our retailers or contacting us for professional advice.
STEP 2: PROTECT
Before You Begin
Prior to application, review all hazards and precautions listed on our website and product labeling. Ensure you are using the appropriate safety equipment as specified in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
Weather Considerations
Cutek Extreme typically requires 3 to 5 days of warm, dry, and sunny weather after application to allow for full penetration and an even finish. Always check the weather forecast before you start coating.
Cutek Colourtone
Applying Cutek Extreme "Clear" (untinted) will protect the wood while allowing it to naturally lighten or silver when exposed to UV rays. To maintain a "freshly oiled" look or to change the color, you must mix one bottle of Cutek Colourtone per 3.6L (0.95 US gal) of Cutek Extreme. Adding a Colourtone provides critical UV protection and significantly slows the silvering process.
Note: Even without Colourtone, Cutek Extreme diffuses deeply to provide moisture protection and structural stability.
Application Process
Wood must be completely clean, grease-free, and dry, with a moisture content below 17%. The surface must also be free of chemical residues and protected from dust during the drying phase.
- Stir Well: Stir the oil thoroughly from the bottom of the can before and during use to ensure active ingredients and pigments are evenly distributed.
- Apply Thinly: Use a brush or paint pad to apply thin, even coats. Two or three thin coats are far more effective than one thick coat.
- Pre-Installation: For best results, apply one coat to all faces of the wood before installation, followed by a second coat on the top surface once the first has fully diffused.
- Post-Installation: Apply two thin coats to all accessible surfaces, ensuring the first coat is completely dry before applying the second.
Drying and Diffusion
Cutek Extreme does not dry like traditional paint; it migrates deep into the wood. This process varies based on wood species, density, porosity, and environmental conditions.
The Tissue Test: To check if the wood is ready for a second coat, press a tissue or rag against the surface. If there is no oil transfer, it is dry. Note that the second coat will take longer to diffuse than the first.
Clean Up and Safety
Clean equipment with Cutek Quickclean, mineral spirits, or soap and water.
WARNING: Oily rags can spontaneously combust. You MUST immediately spread oily materials flat outdoors in an airy spot (above 4°C / 39°F) to dry completely, or wash them thoroughly with detergent and water before disposal.
Coverage Guidelines (Estimates Only)
- New hardwoods (dressed/smooth): 10–20 m²/L (400-800 ft²/gal)
- Old restored wood (dressed/smooth): 6–8.5 m²/L (250-350 ft²/gal)
- New wood (rough sawn): 6–7.5 m²/L (250-300 ft²/gal)
- Old restored wood (rough sawn): 3.5–6 m²/L (150-250 ft²/gal)
- Shingles and shakes: 2–5 m²/L (84-212 ft²/gal)
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance with Cutek Extreme is simple, fast, and cost-effective. Because Cutek Extreme does not crack, peel, or split, your wood can be easily rejuvenated or restored using our "Prepare and Protect" system without ever needing to sand or strip the surface.
When to Reapply
Cutek Extreme should be reapplied when the wood no longer causes water to bead, or as frequently as desired to maintain the wood's natural beauty and specific color.
The Cumulative Effect
Due to the cumulative nature of Cutek Extreme, each subsequent maintenance coat typically requires less oil than the previous one. As the protective properties build up within the wood fibers, the intervals between required recoats will naturally extend.
Variation by Surface Type
Exposure levels dictate maintenance frequency:
Horizontal surfaces: Decks, pool surrounds, and handrails exposed to full weather usually require more frequent care (initially every 6–12 months).
Vertical surfaces: Cladding or siding, especially if rough-sawn, typically requires maintenance much less often.