Water popping, also known as grain-popping, involves applying water to unfinished wood surfaces. This process opens up the wood grain, allowing for better absorption of finishes and achieving a richer colour.
Water popping is particularly useful in several scenarios:
– Product penetration: For oil-based finishes, like Superior Timber Coatings’ Oli Natura range offerings, water popping ensures deeper penetration, resulting in richer colours.
– Sanding imperfections: It helps minimize the visibility of sanding marks or swirls left behind during the sanding process.
– Uneven sanding: Water popping promotes even colour absorption, compensating for any inconsistencies in the sanding process.
– Blotchy appearance: It reduces the uneven absorption of colour, especially in wood species prone to blotchiness like Maple.
1. Preparation: Ensure a clean water source. Apply water evenly to the wood surface without puddling.
2. Application: Use a sponge, rag, or sprayer to apply water evenly across the surface.
3. Drying: Allow the surface to dry completely, typically 2-4 hours. Overnight drying is recommended for wood floors.
– Use caution when walking on water-popped surfaces to prevent damaging the raised grain.
– When applying finishes from the Superior Timber Coatings range, use appropriate tools as recommended in instructional material
Water popping enhances the beauty and durability of wood surfaces, ensuring a more colour saturated finish. As always, it’s best to test in a small area or an offcut first. Remember, Superior Timber Coatings are here to help you choose the right timber coating system for your project — so you can Coat With Confidence.
📞 Call our technical sales team on 1300 887 853 or submit an online enquiry to discuss your project.