Sikkens Cetol BL Unitop

Sikkens Cetol BL Unitop is a water-based, acrylic and urethane varnish for use on a range of interior surfaces. It can be used to protect interior timber, previously painted surfaces, brickwork, concrete and masonry.

Perfect for interior projects such as window frames, hand-rails, skirting boards, wood panelling and cladding, doors and furniture. It can be used on bare wood or over a suitable wood stain.

• Looking for an alternative varnish for flooring? See Sikkens Cetol TSI Satin Plus

Ensure that surfaces to be treated are clean, dry and free from dust, dirt, wax, grease or any other surface contaminants. The moisture content of timber to be coated should not exceed 16%.

New or Bare Timber

1. Degrease any exposed bare timber surface by wiping with a lint-free cloth dampened with methylated spirits
2. Certain timber species contain high levels of natural wood extracts or exudates and some softwoods can be highly resinous. Any resinous deposits should be removed with a scraper
3. Any remaining residues should be removed using a lint-free cloth dampened with methylated spirits, frequently changing the face of the cloth
4. Allow solvent to evaporate fully before overcoating
5. Fill any gaps or holes with a suitable wood filler

Old Timber

1. All damaged or decayed timber must be removed, cutting at least 25mm into sound timber
2. The use of wood hardeners is not recommend in conjunction with this product
3. Secure any new spliced-in timber with non-ferrous screws or fixings and fill all voids surrounding the spliced-in area with a suitable filler

Always do a test area before starting any project to assess product suitability and final finish. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the tin at all times.

Do not apply if air / substrate temperatures are below 8°C or above 25°C during application or drying periods. Protect from frost until dry. Failure to meet these requirements may adversely affect the drying, visual quality and durability of the finish.

Ensure product is thoroughly stirred before and during application, otherwise sheen variations may be experienced. Sikkens Cetol BL Unitop is supplied ready for use. Do not thin.

1. For best results, apply Cetol BL Unitop with a good quality synthetic bristle brush specifically designed for the application of waterborne products
2. Apply the product in a full flowing coat, laying off in the direction of the wood grain, using the minimum number of brushstrokes required to produce an even finish
3. Avoid over-brushing, as this will create brush marks and will reduce the protection afforded
4. This initial coat should satisfy the porosity / absorption of the timber
5. Carefully de-nib the first coat using a fine grade nylon abrasive pad or a fine grade (P240 or finer) wet or dry silicon carbide abrasive paper
6. Remove all sanding dust before continuing
7. Three coats of Cetol BL Unitop should be applied overall, allowing a minimum of 5 hours drying time between coats
8. For best results, keep the interval between applications of the coats as short as possible
9. Allow the final coat 24 hours to fully dry

Cleaning Equipment

Clean brushes and equipment immediately after use with lukewarm water. Do not use hot water.

Maintenance

When looking to maintain the coating, take note of the current condition of the finish. Then clean, degrease and sand to create a key. If excessive damage has occurred, the surface must be abraded back to clean, bare timber, before applying 1-2 coats of Sikkens Cetol BL Unitop as required.

Please Note: If the timber has been previously stained, avoid sanding back to the underlying stain. For maintenance applications, the same drying times and application instructions are applicable.