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There is a window of time in the construction process where CLT panels and other wood components are stored prior to installation and enclosure. During this three- to six-month period, moisture and UV could damage the wood or lead to mold growth.
Arxada’s new LotusPro water repellent shields mass timber products from the effects of mold, moisture, and sunlight by providing a barrier from those natural enemies of wood to keep it looking clean and fresh. This manufacturer-applied, specialty coating is a patented innovation, using proprietary superhydrophobic technology formulated to resist mold growth.
When applied to CLT and glued laminated timber, the coating forms a durable film that both penetrates and coats the wood surface, providing a premium mold- and moisture-resistant coating for wood products. Mass timber that is coated with LotusPro water repellent resists staining, water damage, soiling, UV degradation, and deterioration caused by mold or mildew. This natural-looking protection allows the beauty of the wood to shine through without affecting the color and overall appearance. LotusPro is compatible with oil-based and some water-based finishes.
Factory-applied coatings can cause bottlenecks in the manufacturing facility due to long dry times, uneven application, and thick application rates. LotusPro dries in less than half the time of existing technologies and resists water absorption better at a third the application rate. It applies evenly in one coat using simple spray or brush applicators.
The water repellent takes its name from the “lotus effect,” which refers to self-cleaning properties of the lotus flower. Dirt particles are picked up by water droplets due to the micro- and nanoscopic architecture on the surface, which minimizes the droplet’s adhesion to the surface. Similarly, LotusPro prevents water from penetrating the surface, protecting the wood beneath.
