The Complete Hydrolux Water-Based Exterior Paint System: Ensuring Longevity for Your Windows and Doors

When it comes to protecting your home's exterior elements like windows and doors from the harsh outdoor elements, using the right paint system is crucial. The Hydrolux Water-Based Exterior Paint System is a game-changer in the world of exterior home maintenance. But, it's not just about applying a topcoat and calling it a day. To truly ensure the longevity and performance of your windows and doors, it's essential to utilise the full Hydrolux package, which includes 3 different Hydrolux Primers; a quick drying Topcoat, in three gloss levels; End Grain Sealer; V-joint Sealer and for adhesion we always recommend Frencken Window Frame Adhesive, Frencken stripping spray, and Frencken Cleaning Wipes as these are KOMO certified and the best adhesive package on the market. In this blog, we'll explore the importance of using the complete Hydrolux system and how it limits water uptake into joints, leading to KOMO certification.

1. The Complete Hydrolux Package

The Hydrolux Water-Based Exterior Paint System isn't just your run-of-the-mill paint; it's a comprehensive system designed to provide maximum protection against the elements. Let's break down the components of this system:

• Primers: The primer is the foundation of any good paint job. It prepares the surface, ensures proper adhesion, and enhances the overall durability of the paint system. Our primers are incredibly fast drying and can be force dried in ten minutes. These primers are also KOMO certified and help prevent excessive water from being drawn into the timber. 

  • 17-0535 - Hydrolux Baseprimer - This is our standard primer that is perfectly suited to all timbers that do not bleed tannins, Accoya, Sapele, Pine. 
  • 17-0540 - Hydrolux Filling Primer - Just like our Hydrolux Baseprimer, the Filling primer is suited for almost all woodtypes. The difference is that the filling properties are greater meaning you can more easily achieve a smooth "plastic look" finish.
  • 17-0537 - Hydrolux ISO primer - This is our flag ship primer that can be used on any timber and will block even the most prominent tannins. This product is easy to apply, sand and recoat result in an amazing finish every time. 

• Topcoat: The topcoat is the visible layer of paint that adds color and aesthetics to your windows and doors. But it's not just about looks; it plays a crucial role in protecting against UV rays, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Like the Hydrolux Primer, this is fast drying and easy to apply. With the Hydrolux system you can easily achieve a 3 coat finish in one working day.

  • 17-064X - Hydrolux Topcoat - tinted in-house with our home made pigments we have fantastic colour stability and can offer a maintenance free period of up to 15 years with this product.*   

• End Grain Sealer: End grain is particularly vulnerable to water infiltration. The end grain sealer seals these vulnerable areas, preventing moisture from penetrating and causing damage.

  • 25-0353-1 End Grain Sealer - this is an essential product for the Hydrolux system and should be applied to every end grain, this is especially important for Accoya, where two coats are required. 

• V-joint Sealer: V-joints are common in wooden windows and doors, and they can be problematic areas for water infiltration. The V-joint sealer ensures a watertight seal in these joints, adding an extra layer of protection.

  • 25-0353-250 Hydrolux V-joint Sealer - The Hydrolux V-Joint sealer is a waterborne acrylic dispersion based sealant based on Tri-cryl® technology, containing no harmful solvents. 

• Frencken Window Frame Adhesive: Properly securing window frames is essential for preventing drafts and water leakage. This adhesive ensures a tight bond and helps maintain the structural integrity of your windows

  • 99-000 Frencken Window Frame Adhesive - It is highly suitable for bonding the joints in window and door frames and provides exceptional water proofing qualities to the joint. It carries KOMO certification on 8 different timber species including Accoya and Sapele. It has superior gap-filling qualities to most other adhesive types making it a highly suitable adhesive to help seal the joint area from moisture ingress.

• Frencken Stripping Spray: Over time, old paint and sealants can break down and need to be removed. Frencken Stripping Spray makes this process easier and ensures a clean surface for repainting.

  • 99-200 Frencken Stripping Spray - The Frencken Stripping spray is used in conjunction with the Frencken 0819 SLS window frame adhesive. It is especially designed for removing excess adhesive that squeezes out of the joinery after the joint is compressed. It provides a smooth bonding line to the adhesive and also makes it easier to clean tools.

• Frencken Cleaning Wipes: Before painting, it's crucial to have a clean and debris-free surface. Frencken Cleaning Wipes are specially designed for this purpose, ensuring a smooth and even application of paint.

  • 99-100 Frencken Cleaning Wipes - dissolve fresh and uncured adhesive residue on hands, tools, workbenches, and other surfaces. Contains skincare ingredients and provides a safe alternative to White Spirit and other cleaning materials including detergents.

2. Limiting Water Uptake into Joints

The importance of the full Hydrolux package lies in its ability to limit water uptake into joints. Windows and doors are particularly vulnerable to water infiltration, which can lead to rot, warping, and other forms of damage. By using the complete Hydrolux system, you create a robust barrier that prevents water from seeping into critical areas.

The end grain sealer, V-joint sealer, and Frencken window frame adhesive work together to seal any potential entry points for water. They create a watertight seal that ensures moisture stays out, protecting the structural integrity of your windows and doors. Click here to read more about the importance of glue in exterior joinery. 

3. KOMO Certification: Quality Assurance

One of the hallmarks of the Hydrolux Water-Based Exterior Paint System is its KOMO certification. KOMO is a renowned Dutch certification organization that evaluates the quality and performance of building materials and products. When a product carries the KOMO certification, it signifies that it has met rigorous quality and performance standards. Read more about KOMO certification here.

By using the full Hydrolux package, you not only ensure the protection and longevity of your windows and doors but also meet the high standards set by KOMO. This certification provides peace of mind, assuring you that your investment in the Hydrolux system is a sound one.

Conclusion

In the world of exterior home maintenance, the Hydrolux Water-Based Exterior Paint System stands out as a comprehensive and effective solution for protecting your windows and doors. By utilising the complete package, including primer, topcoat, end grain sealer, V-joint sealer, Frencken window frame adhesive, Frencken stripping spray, and Frencken cleaning wipes, you create a robust defense against water infiltration and ensure the long-term durability of these crucial components of your home. This means that your windows and doors will be better protected against water in the critical stages of service life. Click here to read our test reports on early water uptake. Plus, with KOMO certification, you can trust that you're using a high-quality product that meets rigorous standards. Click here to learn more about KOMO certification.  So, don't skimp on protection – choose the complete Hydrolux system for your windows and doors and enjoy peace of mind for years to come.