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News > Case studies > Weathershield Aquatech Opaque helps restore the past whilst looking to the future

Weathershield Aquatech Opaque helps restore the past whilst looking to the future

Dulux Trade Weathershield Aquatech Opaque has been used to restore the historic timber features on a Grade II listed home in a picturesque village in Warwickshire, as the water-based woodstain is a more environmentally responsible means of meeting demands for a durable product.

The high performing woodstain is formulated using unique ICI technology, which achieves the same high levels of flexibility traditionally found only in solvent-based alternatives. The opaque finish provides excellent resistance to peeling, flaking and blistering, protecting exterior wood for up to six years. The woodstain was ideal for restoring the building’s timber beams and window sills, which had faded over time, back to a rich black solid colour.

The work was undertaken by ‘Decorating by Pat Dunne’. Pat said: “Weathershield Aquatech Opaque is a great example of why decorators needn’t worry about impending legislation on VOC levels in paint and woodstains. I think many of us were dreading 2010, but products like these prove that the same levels of performance can be achieved using water-based alternatives – even on exterior projects".

“I wanted to offer my customer a water-based product as it has a less harmful effect on the environment, but needed to be sure I wouldn’t then be compromising on the quality of the finish, or the long term durability. Weathershield Aquatech Opaque came up trumps on all counts.”

New regulations relating to the level of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) contained in coatings first came into effect in 2007, but in 2010 a second phase of legislation will be introduced and the changes will be more noticeable. Minor changes to conventional water-borne coatings will be required and traditional solvent-based coatings such as gloss and satin paints will be subject to greater formulation alterations. In anticipation, Weathershield Aquatech Opaque is already 2010 compliant and also offers a credible alternative to solvent-based products.