Knotwood’s “Not Wood” Finishes

Knotwood aluminum is technically designed to not only look good, but withstand the test of time. Knotwood’s true beauty doesn’t rest in its durability and aluminum capabilities, but rather the natural beauty and timeless appeal of its lifelike wood finishings are what sets it apart.

Extruding Knotwood Profiles

The process begins by heating the stock billet material. It is then loaded into the container in the press. A dummy block is placed behind it where the ram then presses on the material to push it out of the die. Afterward the extrusion is stretched in order to straighten it.

Powder Coating

The next stage in Knotwood’s process involves powder coating. Electrostatic guns will be used to make 80-120µ (microns) powder paint layer. Polymerization will be performed afterwards by heating the profiles to 220 degree Celsius for 30 minutes. The base coat that is applied is very durable and scratch resistant. This coat also serves as protection of the aluminum from external factors such as abrasion, corrosion, weather, humidity and UV damage.

Wood Effect

The powder coated aluminium is wrapped in one of Knotwood’s many films and set on a conveyor system. We then vacuum the air from the film around the aluminium. The conveyor transports the aluminum into the oven, under heat and pressure the film transfers the Knotwood image onto the aluminum.

(Source: Knotwood Corporate)

How to Care for your Knotwood

As you may already know, Knotwood products are not actually wood, it’s aluminum. Hence, we get the timeless finish of wood, while also getting the durability and sturdiness of aluminum. This makes your surface maintenance low and effortless. To keep your application looking like new for a longer time, here are some guidelines.

  • The key to maintaining the good looks of your powder coated aluminum is to regularly wash all over and not just the parts sheltered from rain to keep the coating fresh.
  • Cleaning frequency should take place every 12 months depending on the environment you are in. If the application is exposed to high pollution areas such as industrial areas, geothermal environments, or coastal environments, then cleaning frequency should be increased to every 3 months. In particularly hazardous locations such as beach fronts, severe marine environments, or areas of high industrial pollution the period between cleaning should be reduced to monthly.
  • It is recommended to wash the surface with a mild solution of pure soap or mild non-abrasive kitchen detergent in warm water.
  • Use a sponge, soft cloth, or soft bristle nylon brush, and gentle movements to prevent shiny spots.

For your convenience, Knotwood has provided a maintenance sheet for you to learn more on methods of maintaining your Knotwood application.

Benefits of Knotwood

We get it; wood has a traditional look that is difficult to match. But we are happy to introduce you to Knotwood. Whether you’re a home builder, designer, or just tackling your next outdoor home project, Knotwood aluminum products offer a wide range of benefits over traditional materials. Knotwood delivers very real benefits for builders, designers, and homeowners alike. Here are some benefits to choosing Knotwood’s gorgeous aluminum alternative!

Aluminum is Non-Warping

Aluminum is not only lighter and stronger, but it’s also straighter than real wood. Knotwood supplies lengths of up to Imperial 6.5m, ensuring every extrusion is true to form. This means building with a perfectly crafted marine-grade material that is easier to install and won’t warp over time.

Knotwood Has Very Minimal Fade

Knotwood looks better for longer. To ensure your color choice stands the test of time, all of our colors have been rigorously tested to withstand the most extreme environments. Knotwoods advanced paint technology and sublimation process provide a durable, baked-on paint finish that resists peeling, chipping, and cracking. When maintained correctly, Knotwood colors and finishes will remain as true as the day you bought them.

Proudly Environmentally Friendly

Choosing a material with sustainability in mind is becoming more paramount. Metal is one of the most recycled materials on the planet, and aluminum boasts one of the highest recycling rates of any metal. Knotwood is 100% recyclable, uses VOC-free coatings and lead-free finishes resulting in a smaller environmental footprint for you and for us.

Knotwood is Slip Resistant

Knotwood decking is suitable for most covered areas. For use around swimming pools and wet areas, it is important to use Knotwoods optional, not slip powder coating, or we highly recommend adding a third-party anti-slip coating that can be purchased at any good hardware store.

Aluminum is Non-Combustible

Fire resistance and resilience are essential no matter where we live. This is where Knotwood’s benefits truly surpass the use of wood. Knotwood is a non-combustible product that has been manufactured to meet relevant international fire standards.

Knotwood is Resistant to Corrosion

Knotwood is made from high-quality marine-grade aluminum. Contrary to other metals, aluminum reacts with the oxygen in the air to form an extremely thin layer of oxide. Though unnoticeable, this naturally occurring layer provides excellent corrosion protection and is self-repairing if damaged. This anodizing process naturally improves its resilience to corrosion in harsh environments.

Knotwood Products Are Stain & Scratch Resistant

A topcoat of specially developed, exterior grade paint is baked on to provide resistance to chipping, flaking, and blistering to ensure the finish retains its look for longer. Our specialized sublimation process permeates the entire thickness of the powder coating, which means Knotwoods finish is the industry’s leading material in hard-wearing wood-like products.

Knotwood is Light Weight

One of the most known properties of aluminum is that it is light, with a density one third that of steel and a weight 50% less than wood when compared equally. The low density of aluminum accounts for it being lightweight, but this does not compromise its strength. A lightweight material means low transport costs, easy installation and handling while maintaining structural integrity in all types of environments and conditions.

Aluminum Remains Cool

Knotwood is perfect for the outdoors. Aluminum is great in direct sunlight as it remains cooler than most other materials. It naturally absorbs heat slowly but releases it quickly. Whether it be a deck, handrail, or any other application, in the heat of the day, Knotwood aluminum remains cool to touch.

Aluminum is Insect Proof

Aluminum is impervious to insects, no need to worry about termites or ants affecting the beautiful Knotwood finish. In contrast to wood, Knotwood aluminum doesn’t require additional chemical treatments to protect them from pest attack.

Knotwood Aluminum is Freeze & Frost Resistant

Unlike most steel grades, aluminum does not become brittle at low temperatures. Instead, its strength increases. And as it doesn’t absorb water or moisture, Knotwood won’t warp and expand when exposed to extremely cold conditions.

Knotwood Aluminum is Non-Porous

Aluminum is perfect for wet, damp, shady environments. Unlike wood, Knotwood is non-porous and will not swell, grow mold, or mildew when exposed to wet conditions. As it doesn’t retain water, it’s easy to maintain as it doesn’t require regular sealing, making it a more practical solution than wood.