We get asked a lot of questions about our colour restorer Polytrol – understandably so as it is quite a unique product! So, we thought it would be a good idea to have a Polytrol FAQ’s post dedicated to our most popular questions to make it nice and easy for you to find the answers!
How long does Polytrol last?
Ultimately it will vary as to how long Polytrol will last depending on UV levels, weathering as well as pollution that the treated surface is exposed to.
Generally speaking, Polytol should last at least 12 months before needing another application. However, it should be noted that treated surfaces exposed to high levels of UV and weathering (by the coasts for example) will likely require another application earlier.
On the opposite side of this, surfaces that are not exposed to these types of conditions likely won’t require another application of Polytrol for 24+ months!
Where can I buy Polytrol from?
You can purchase Polytrol directly from our website. We stock 3 sizes including a 250ml spray can.
Does Polytrol contain any silicone?
No, Polytrol does not contain any silicone. It uses Owatrol Oil technology.
Does Polytrol contain linseed or teak oil?
Understandably, the makeup of all our products is commercially sensitive information, however, we can confirm that Polytrol does not contain any linseed or teak oil.
Do you sell Polytrol in shops like Wickes, Homebase, B&Q or Amazon?
We do not currently stock Polytrol in any of these stores.
Can I use Polytrol on a composite door?
Yes, Polytrol is perfect for use on a composite wood door. Take a look at these previous blog posts where customers sent us in before and after pictures of their front doors:
- How to revive a composite front door
- Using Polytrol to restore a faded wood effect composite front door
Is Polytrol safe to use for internal purposes? e.g. dashboards etc.
Yes, Polytrol can be used for internal purposes such as on car dashboards. However, we do recommend you apply it as early in the day as possible to give the treated area as much time to air out as possible.
Do you ship to England, Scotland or Wales?
We do not ship to England, Scotland or Wales as we have a supplier in England where you can purchase Polytrol from directly.
Can Polytrol be used on car bumpers, trims and bodywork?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to use Polytrol on car bumpers, trims and body work. Polytrol can be used on plastic, metal, composite wood, fibre glass, GRP, tiles and more!
How should I store surplus Polytrol?
If you have any left over Polytrol, you should transfer the contents to a smaller, airtight, closed metal or glass container and kept from freezing and high temperatures.
Do you have samples of Polytrol?
Unfortunately we do not have samples at this time.
Can I use Polytrol on white surfaces?
Polytrol cannot be used on white surfaces. This is because Polytrol works by restoring dried out and damaged pigments which white is lacking.
How long do I leave Polytrol on the surface?
Once the surface has been properly prepared, Polytrol should be left to work for 10 – 20 minutes. It’s important that you do not let the Polytrol dry out and create a film on the surface.
Do I have to remove all previous finishes/treatments before applying Polytrol?
Yes, any treatments or finishes on the surface must be removed before application of Polytrol. This is because Polytrol works by saturating deep into the surface to re-wet the pigments that have dried out. Therefore, anything blocking it from saturating will stop it from working.
I applied Polytrol as per the instructions but my surface looks the same. Why didn’t it work?
Sadly, we have seen this happen before. In some cases, even if you have prepped the surface and applied the Polytrol correctly, there is a chance you will see next to no improvement. If this is the case, then unfortunately, the pigments may just be too damaged to restore.
If the surface treated has been exposed to many years of harsh UV rays and weathering, there is a chance that even Polytrol cannot restore it.
When do I need to re-apply Polytrol?
You can carry out another application of Polytrol once the treated surface starts to show signs of fading. Before application, you should prepare the surface as you did before.
We are fairly active on our social media pages, however, if you have any technical queries about Polytrol, please call us on: or send us an email to: info@igoe.ie as we will be able to assist you much quicker than via comments or direct messages.
We hope these Polytrol FAQ’s were helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section below. We love hearing from you!
You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram at @OwatrolIreland or find us under the hashtag #OwatrolIreland
About Owatrol Team
Our team are ready and willing to support you with your requirements whether it is protecting your newly laid deck or renovating a luxury yacht, whatever the application Owatrol has the solution you are looking for.
Can polytrol be painted over? If so how do I prefer the surface so that the paint adheres properly/
Hi R,
Once fully dry (after 48 hours) you can paint over Polytrol, however, using Polytrol is an unnecessary step if you wish to just paint the surface.
Feel free to contact us at: info@igoe.ie or on: +353 1 830 2250
All the best,
The Owatrol Team