FAQ’s - ProNature

FAQ's

Common Frequently asked questions

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What distinguishes ProNature products from other eco-friendly paints?

Read Bernard’s latest article on “Organic Paints“.

Why Should I Use ProNature Products?

Low allergy: The natural bio-base of ProNature Products allows your family to enjoy a better healthier lifestyle.

Non-Poisonous: All ProNature Products are made from natural, plant-based materials only and make your home and your environment a safer place.

Free of dangerous Solvents: The ProNature Product range is totally free of dangerous solvents like Toluene Xylene, and Glycol ether derivates etc.

Health and Environment: By using ProNature Products you are promoting the maintenance of a healthy balance between mankind and nature.

What are VOCs & why are they so bad?

In addition, they can react with other gases and form other air pollutants after they are in the air. VOCs can be found in the air indoors and outdoors. Some of these sources continue to produce VOCs when they are stored or transported. Some of the more familiar VOCs include benzene, formaldehyde and toluene, which ProNature’s products do not contain!
VOCs vs. Natural VOCs – all explained: Read here.

How do ProNature’s prices compare to similar products?

Compared to imported systems – our prices are way below those, as we manufacture locally. Due to our natural ingredients costs we are not able to offer products in lieu with local low-price / low-budget items, which contain petro- and other chemicals. Here’s the link to the online store to give you an indication.

I want my painter/builder/architect to use ProNature, how do I make this happen?

Many painters, builders and architects are already familiar with ProNature, but if not, they can get the information they need from our Technical Data Sheets and/or please contact us and we guide them to the right products & application. Where possible we even conduct training sessions either on site or at our clients workshops.

Can ProNature Products be used on toys?

Absolutely! ProNature is the perfect choice for wooden toys, cribs, furniture & walls as our products made from plant-based raw materials, are non-toxic, food safe and VOC free. ProNature Wall & Celling, ProNature Aqua Enamel, ProNature Indoor, ProNature HardWax Oil, ProNature Wax Balm.

Can children use ProNature’s products?

We’ve got the Junior Range for the very young artists! For all other projects: Yes, ProNature products are non-toxic and you can have your little (and not so little) ones helping on your paint, wood-seal or cleaning project. However, depending on their age (and/or temperament) supervision is advised at all times.

Where is ProNature manufactured?

All our products are made in Cape Town with German expertise, local is lekker.

How can I become a stockist or sales agent?

Congratulations! You are one step closer to join us on the path to paint a greener future!
Please contact us and we will stock you up.

Where can I buy ProNature Products?

Check out our stockists, buy from our online store, send us an email or visit us at our factory.

Please understand that stockists often do not offer our entire range, so it’s good idea to call them first to make sure they’ve got your desired product.

Can Natural Paint Compete With Conventional Wall Paint?

Absolutely. Please see link to article.

Can ProNature’s natural paints give me same colours as conventional paints?

Yes! However, you won’t achieve bright yellows or flaming reds without synthetic ingredients. Read more here.

What can I do If I don’t find the standard colour I like?

We’re passionate about mixing a special colour shade for you but we will always follow our philosophy of using mineral or plant pigments only.

How long does it take to dry between the coats in Summer? In winter?

No. Application of ProNature Wall Paints, Primers and Enamel are identical to the conventional products. However, painting is a profession! Have a read through this entertaining article, ensuring a successful outcome!

Leave to dry for a minimum of 6 hours and if necessary, lightly sand the surface before applying the next coat. The finish will take about 7 days to fully cure, avoid standing water during this period. Cold weather and/or high humidity will prolong the drying process.

Can you spray your wall & ceiling paint?

Yes, absolutely! The paint can be applied by brush, roller, foam pad or suitable spraying equipment.

What are VOCs & why are they so bad?

Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are gases that are emitted into the air from products or processes. Some are harmful by themselves, including some that cause cancer.

Are ProNature’s paints oudorless?

No! For very good reasons! “Virtually odourless – Don’t be fooled. The deceiving absence of smell may, in reality, be more dangerous and not a blessing in disguise….” Please read here.

Why must I stir (and not shake) the product prior to using it?

Pigments are the heaviest component in a paint system. During storage those pigments may settle on the bottom of the container. In order to have a correct composition of the product, thorough stirring is required.

What is the shelf life of the Wall Paint?

The shelf life of Wall Paint is 1 year if the paint is sealed, 6 months once the paint has been opened.

How does the plaster's smoothness affect the primer's absorption and the opaqueness of the final coatings?

The Plaster Primer is there to prepare the surface, i.e. to promote adhesion of the subsequent coatings as well as stopping excessive absorption of these subsequent coatings into the plaster. The pigmentation of plaster primers are generally very low as they are not to assist with opaqueness but are pigmented mostly to see where one has painted. The smoother the plaster the lesser absorption of the plaster primer takes place, i.e. more white is visible on the surface. Proper hiding of the substrate and opaqueness will only be achieved with 2 – 3 layers of ProNature Wall.

Stain & Seal in one application?

Yes, ProNature Indoor & Outdoor Wood Sealers are available in 60 colours and we offer customized colours, too. Easy Application on any type of wood, no sanding between coats, no sanding prior to maintenance coat either.

Do the sealers give me a matte or glossy finish?

ProNature Indoor & Outdoor give you a complete matte finish. ProNature HardWax Oil gives you a slightly sheen, soft satin finish, not glossy at all.

What sealer must I use if I do not want the wood colour to change?

ProNature Indoor, Outdoor and HardWax Oil are offered in “Natural Clear” – enhances/slightly darkens the existing / freshly sanded colour. “Natural Light” preserves the freshly sanded look (on oak and similar timbers) “Splash of White” preserves the freshly sanded look on very light/yellowing timbers, e.g. Oregon & SA Pine, Ash, birch ply and similar.

What’s the difference between paint, varnish, sealer, wood oil, stain …?

A great question! It’s really confusing and often the name and meaning of a wood finish get’s mixed up! Here’s a great read to bring some light into it https://pronature.co.za/varnish-paint-stain-sealer-or-pronature-wood-treatment/

Why should I treat my wooden surfaces in the first place?

Sooner or later every kind of timber will eventually loose the battle against moisture and UV. Besides the often unwanted visual appearance of darker and lighter areas (remember that in most cases rain & sun exposure differs on a deck for example), the wood will dry out and crack and often begin to splinter. It has been a trend to let the wood just “weather” but now, after a few years, the big wave of revamp has begun. Here’s an article, worth the short read.

Can I use ProNature Wood Oils on food counters, butchers blocks etc?

Yes! ProNature Indoor is the perfect product and is being used widely by manufactures to seal and optionally stain their components. Browse our clients page for a selection of various references.

Are the wood sealers good for interior & exterior application?

Whereas ProNature Indoor is suitable for all interior and exterior (with little exposure to sun & rain, e.g. under roofed patios) ProNature Outdoor contains a slightly higher pigment concentration on the very transparent colours.

In addition we have added some biocides to help the prevention of mould growth (especially for areas with high humidity). However, ProNature Outdoor may be used for interior furniture, floors and any wooden structures. Please stick to ProNature Indoor, when treated items are in contact with food, e.g. cutting boards, kitchen utensils as well as baby cribs & toys.

Can I use the products on any type of wood as well as wood-similar surfaces, like veneer, bamboo, cork, mdf (supa wood)?

Yes, ProNature Indoor/Outdoor/HardWax Oil/Wax Balm are all suitable for all these types!

Does ProNature Outdoor give enough UV protection?

In every paint system the UV Barrier is: PIGMENTS! That means the higher the pigmentation the longer it will give protection. “Natural Clear” contains only some pigment and will require more frequent re-oiling then “Mahogany” for example. Often we suggest to our clients to rather choose a colour from our extensive chart, which repeats the original wood colour for this reason!

How many coats do you need to apply for outside?

For the outside we recommend applying 2-3 coats, depending on the type of wood.

Can you apply your product on previously varnished surface?

You cannot apply it on a varnished surface. Previous coatings need to removed completely by sanding our the use of a suitable paint stripper.

How to apply your products?

Surface must be dry, clean and dust-free. Sand wood to a fine, smooth finish using min grit 100. Stir well! Apply liberally using brush or short bristle paint roller (or wipe with cloth) until saturation is reached. Remove and dry off any excess thoroughly that has not been absorbed after about 10 min using a lint-free cloth i.e., ProNature Mutton Cloth. Leave to dry for a minimum of 6 hours and if necessary, lightly sand the surface before applying the next coat. The finish will take about 7 days to fully cure, avoid standing water during this period. Please also see this helpful application video.

Why does the colour look different on my various wood pieces?

The wood oils are penetrating / transparent systems. Every piece of wood, veneer, bamboo or cork has got it’s own predominant colour tone, which influences the final appearance. Difference will be not as visual with high-pigmented oils and the ProNature Oil Colour Concentrates.

How often should I apply the oil to maintain the timber?

It really depends on the exposure to surface to traffic, UV and water. And the correct cleaning regime. An interior floor may last many years without re-oiling, whereas a deck, beaten by sun, rain, wind, traffic, pool water etc might need the first re-oil after 6 month, then next one after another year and so forth. The secret is, to give it a maintenance coat early enough to prevent damage and extend the next maintenance period. As you detect first signs of weathering or wear and tear, please go ahead with a maintenance coat.

No. Just make sure the surface is clean and dry please. If you have another coating (like a paint or a varnish = top coat) – this needs to be completely sanded off!

The first maintenance we recommend to do in 6 months time after applying the wood sealer.

How to re-oil the deck?

Prior to applying ProNature Outdoor the timber should be prepared by ensuring it is clean and free of grease. Cleaning is made easy with the help of ProNature Plant Soap Concentrate. Sand to a smooth and even finish (insufficient sanding will be highlighted especially when sealing with a darker colour) if necessary.

Application: Stir material well before application. For maintenance ProNature Outdoor (choose same colour as was used for the original coating) is applied liberally using a brush or roller. In order to avoid glossy spots and prolonged drying it is necessary to remove any excess thoroughly that has not been absorbed after about 10 min using a lint-free cloth. Leave to dry for a minimum 6hrs.

Only surfaces, which are subject to extreme weather conditions, should receive an additional coating after a 24 hr drying period. In general, it is adequate to apply a single coat of ProNature Outdoor for maintenance purposes.

More coats may become necessary if maintenance had been neglected and the original coating has completely deteriorated. In this case it is recommended to re-apply ProNature as described in our technical data sheet or on the product container.

What is the coverage of the Oil Colour Concentrate/Wood Sealer?

For the outside we recommend applying 2-3 coats, depending on the type of wood.

Why must I stir (and not shake) the product prior to using it?

Why do I need Mutton Cloth and why must I wipe?

Oil penetrates into the pores of the timber and stains & seals it from the inside. Once the pores are filled, there often remains some excess oil on the treated area. Oil does not dry (compared to paint or varnish, which covers the surface = top coat) and therefore it has to be wiped off. If you don’t there’s a good chance to land up with a tacky finish and glossy spots! So, give it a good rub after about 10 minutes, it needs to look matte and be almost touch-dry! Our mutton cloth is available in our online store.

Do the sealers require a top coat?

No, the wood sealer will give you matte finish and you don’t require to put anything else on the top. For high traffic items such as floor and tables – 2-3 coats of wood sealer, for non-traffic items -1 coat will be enough.

Can I put a water-based (polyurethane) finish over ProNature Wood Sealers?

Yes! However, even varnishes or polyurethane products cannot indefinitely protect from scratches and stains and after a couple of years might crack and peel. These additional coatings must then be sanded off before you can bring the surface back to its former beauty.

Scratches and stains cannot be repaired without removing the existing coating and re-applying the varnish, lacquer or sealer. Keeping the surfaces protected only with ProNature Wood Sealers (indoor or outdoor) allows you to spot-repair damages without stripping the entire surface.

Read here for more on this.

Is your wood sealer water based?

No! The wood sealers comprise of Linseed oil and blend of vegetable oils. No solvents added!

Can you wash your brushes with water after applying wood sealer?

Use ProNature Plant Turpentine for brushes & rollers. Use ProNature Plant Soap Concentrate for severe stains and prior to re-oiling.

What to do if the surface is sticky/tacky?

First Option: If the oil application didn’t have too much time to dry i.e. 6-12 hours it is possible to reapply the same oil i.e. ProNature Indoor/Outdoor/Rock to the surface and to leave it on the surface for approx.10 minutes. The fresh oil is able (within reason) to re-dissolve the previously applied oil which can now be rubbed off using a mutton cloth or to be loosened with a fine scouring pad which is then followed by a mutton cloth. For large surfaces like floors it is advisable to make use of an industrial polisher with a white or red pad to loosen and mop up any excess oil. The earlier above process can be applied the easier and more successful this method will be!

Second Option: To sticky surfaces older than 24 hours of drying: Apply a blend of high quality methylated spirits & turpentine (1:1)***. Leave to loosen the stickiness for about 10 minutes. Scrub softened oil either manually or with an industrial polisher (red or black pad) until all sticky residue has been removed. Clean surface with mutton cloth and reapply oil as described above.

***alternatively we offer: ProNature Rescue, which is the natural alternative without petrochemicals and a ready-to-use product. However, due to its ingredients it’s more costly than the ordinary methylated spirits & turpentine.

Please see the link to the Help Sheet.

How to remove wood sealer from the timber?

You can remove the existing wood sealer by sanding down the surface. A coarse sandpaper like grit 40 will remove old finishes very quickly. Follow the rough sanding by grit 60, 80 and 100 to make sure to achieve a smooth timber surface.

If I add more coats, will it darken the stain or just enhance it?

Generally not, colour will be established with the first coat and the following coats will only marginally change the colour but only with our very high pigmented oils.

Do you have a specific wood filler to use that will also stain with the ProNature Outdoor?

We are busy developing our own filler which will probably come out in the new year. Any filler can be used but neither Indoor nor Outdoor will be able to stain such fillers so it is important to select the correct filler colour i.e. Filler colour should closely match the Outdoor or Indoor colour.

Can ProNature Outdoor Wood Sealer stain the wood glue?

Wood glue spillage needs to be removed with a wet cloth as no product (other than spray-on solvent-based stains) will stain wood glue.

What's the best way to ensure max colour intensity?

The process is called Water Popping. This can be done on both solid timber and veneer, the latter gives much stronger results. Simply wipe on some water with cloth or sponge on to the raw timber and leave to dry. This will open the pores of the timber and allows the pigments to be absorb much better than on a just sanded timber as sanding does clog the pores with fine dust and thus prevents good penetration.