Sikkens Cetol HLS Plus is a professional-grade, solvent-borne woodstain designed for exceptional protection and long-lasting aesthetic appeal on exterior timber. This versatile product is suitable for a wide range of wood surfaces and is available in a selection of rich, translucent tones including Dark Oak, Mahogany, Light Oak, Teak, Walnut, and Pine.

This woodstain offers excellent performance characteristics and is engineered to serve as both a base coat and a finishing coat. It enhances the natural grain of the timber while providing a breathable, semi-gloss finish that resists flaking and peeling. As part of a comprehensive woodcare system, it is commonly used in conjunction with other Sikkens products such as Cetol Filter 7 Plus for enhanced durability.

Product Features

• Low build, semi-gloss finish that highlights the natural grain of wood
• Solvent-borne formulation for deep penetration and robust adhesion
• Dual-purpose application: serves as both a base coat and a finishing coat depending on the timber and exposure conditions
• Exceptional UV and weather resistance
• Breathable coating that allows moisture vapor to escape, reducing the risk of blistering
• Suitable for a wide range of exterior wood surfaces

Recommended Uses

As a Base Coat:

• Suitable for exterior softwood and hardwood joinery, including:
  • Window frames
  • Exterior doors
  • Garage doors

As a Finishing Coat:

• Ideal for less exposed or rough sawn exterior wood substrates, such as:
  • Cladding
  • Fascias
  • Soffits
  • Garden fencing
  • Timber sheds

Note: This product is not recommended as a standalone finish for dense hardwoods. For such applications, an additional protective topcoat such as Sikkens Cetol Filter 7 Plus is necessary.

Available Colour Options and Packaging Details

Technical Specifications

• Product Volume: 2.5 Litres
• Coverage Rate: Approximately 1012 square meters per litre, depending on wood porosity and surface texture
• Drying Times:
• Touch dry: 4 to 6 hours
  • Recoatable: 16 to 24 hours
• Application Method: Brush application only (natural bristle brushes recommended for best results)
• Cleaning: Clean brushes and tools with white spirit or a suitable proprietary cleaner
• Storage: Store in tightly closed containers in a dry, ventilated area away from direct sunlight and sources of heat

Application Instructions

• Surface Preparation
  • Ensure wood is clean, dry, and free from any contaminants such as dirt, oil, or loose fibres
  • Sand smooth planed timber to improve absorption and remove any previous coatings
• Application Process
  • Stir the product thoroughly before and during use
  • Apply evenly in the direction of the wood grain using a high-quality natural bristle brush
  • Avoid over-application to prevent uneven drying and sheen
  • For joinery: Apply one base coat followed by two topcoats of Sikkens Cetol Filter 7 Plus
  • For rough sawn timber: Apply two to three coats as a finishing system
• Maintenance
  • Inspect the coated surfaces annually and recoat as necessary depending on weathering and exposure
  • Clean surfaces regularly to maintain appearance and performance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use this product on decking? A: No. Sikkens Cetol HLS Plus is not suitable for horizontal surfaces subject to foot traffic and abrasion such as decking. A specialist decking oil or coating should be used for such applications.

Q: Is it suitable for interior use? A: No. This product is formulated specifically for exterior use due to its solvent content and resistance properties.

Q: What is meant by low build? A: A low build woodstain does not form a thick film on the surface. Instead, it penetrates the wood and enhances the grain while maintaining breathability and flexibility.

Q: Can it be applied over previously stained or painted surfaces? A: It is recommended to apply on bare wood or surfaces previously coated with compatible woodstains. Old, incompatible coatings should be removed completely before application.

Q: How long does the finish last? A: When used in a complete system (e.g., with Cetol Filter 7 Plus), the finish can last up to five years on joinery and two to three years on rough sawn timber, depending on exposure and maintenance.

Q: Is sanding required between coats? A: Light sanding is recommended between coats, especially if the recoat window has passed or to enhance adhesion and smoothness.

Q: What weather conditions are best for application? A: Apply in dry conditions with temperatures between 5C and 30C. Avoid applying in direct sunlight or during rainy weather.

Conclusion

Sikkens Cetol HLS Plus 2.5L is a high-performance exterior woodstain that offers both beauty and durability. Its low build, semi-gloss formulation allows for breathability and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for protecting and enhancing exterior timber surfaces. Whether used as a base coat in a system or as a stand-alone finish on less exposed surfaces, it ensures a professional, long-lasting result.

For best performance, always follow manufacturers recommendations and consider combining with other Sikkens woodcare products as part of a complete exterior protection system.