Why We Recommend Cutek to Finish Decks
There are many finishing options for decks, and often, when people complain about peeling or flaking finishes, it's because they're not using the right kind of product. We generally recommend Cutek Extreme for all wood deck finishes because it's proven to be a durable and easy to use product.
What is CUTEK Extreme?
CUTEK was developed in Australia and is designed for harsh climates.
We recommend CUTEK Extreme for most wood decking projects because it’s an oil-based wood stabilizer with a unique self-healing effect. The finish highlights the natural grain and beauty of the wood while providing long-lasting protection. It works by penetrating deeply into the wood and it won’t flake or peel.
Why Choose Cutek
CUTEK brings out the natural beauty, grain, and texture of the wood. It is simple to use and avoids the common problems that come with other deck finishes.
Self-Healing
The protective oils penetrate the wood and stay mobile, migrating into any new cut or scratch and sealing it on their own.
Easy Maintenance
Most finishes need sanding before a recoat. CUTEK skips that step. Just clean the surface and apply a fresh coat when needed.
Improved Dimensional Stability
As the oil penetrates, it displaces moisture in the wood, reducing the cracking, splitting, and warping that water causes over time.
No Flaking or Peeling
CUTEK soaks into the wood instead of sitting on top, so it will not flake or peel. The colour fades over time but recoats easily.
Maintain or Enhance Wood’s Natural Beauty
Applied as a clear oil, CUTEK lets the wood silver naturally over time. You can also mix one of 18 Colourtones into the Extreme oil to add colour and UV protection.
Clear CUTEK (no Colourtones)
Untinted CUTEK lets your wood lighten and silver naturally in the sun, while keeping the self-healing and dimensional stability benefits.
Adding a Colourtone
To add UV protection (or enhance the colour of the wood) add a Cutek Colourtone. The darker the colour, the more UV protection it offers.
Clear oil offers no UV protection, so you will need to add a Colourtone to slow the silvering.
| Wood Species | Recommended Cutek Colours |
|---|---|
| Douglas Fir - Rough | Honeycomb, Espresso |
| Douglas Fir - Smooth | Espresso, Ashwood |
| Ipe | Autumntone, Goldtone, Walnut |
| Pressure Treated | Espresso, Honeycomb |
| Thermally Modified Ash | Honeycomb, Goldtone, Espresso |
| Western Red Cedar - Clear & Knotty | Rustic Gold, Honeycomb, Goldtone, Cedartone |
Preparing and Applying Cutek
Preparation
CUTEK only penetrates dry wood, so aim for a moisture content below 17 percent. To check, splash a little water on the surface. If it soaks in, you are ready to finish.
The wood must be free of dust and chemical residue. Once it is dry, lightly sand with 80 to 100 grit and clear away all sawdust before you apply.
CUTEK will not bond over another coating. Strip and sand off any existing finish completely before you start.
Application
Stir CUTEK Extreme before and during use, working from the bottom of the can. Mix in your Colourtone fully if you are using one.
Apply a thin, even coat with a brush or paint pad. Add the second coat once the first has fully penetrated the wood.
Apply in warm, dry conditions. Heat helps the oil draw deep into the wood for the best result.
Clean Up
Any equipment used, including brushes, can be cleaned with soap and water. If not cleaned correctly or disposed of, oily rags or other materials may cause combustion fires. After use, immediately spread out all oily material outside to dry, by flattening them to full size in an airy spot. You will want to remove all oil from all clothes, tools, rags or other materials used.
Maintenance
CUTEK Extreme should be reapplied when the wood is no longer beading water or as necessary to retain the natural or enhanced wood colour. Timing will depend on a variety of variables including wood age, species, design, weather exposure, and adequacy of preparation. Generally, we recommend a typical maintenance coat every 2 years; however, feel free to reach out to our sales team to discuss your specific project.