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Anyone finding success with Penofin vs. Messmers on high-sun Cumaru jobs?

Dana Kowalski Aug 1, 2026 at 10:34 AM

I am currently bidding a 400sqft Cumaru deck in the South Florida sun. Historically, I have stuck with Messmers UV Plus, but the recent batch variability and drying times have me looking elsewhere. I have a client pushing for a lighter, more natural look, and I am tempted to try the Penofin Verde. Has anyone here tested how the Verde holds up against the traditional oil-based stuff when you are dealing with constant UV exposure? I am worried about the maintenance cycle shortening if I switch systems now. Also, for those using Penofin, are you finding it takes longer to wipe off the excess on dense tropicals like Cumaru compared to Ipe? Don't want to get stuck with a tacky finish on a job this size. Any feedback or tips on application techniques for this specific wood would be huge.

3 Replies

Robert ChenAug 1, 2026 at 10:34 PM

I've been running Cumaru in South Florida for years, and honestly, steer clear of the Verde for a 400sqft deck. It’s a great eco-friendly product, but it doesn't have the heavy-duty trans-oxide pigments needed to fight that brutal UV index. You’ll be back for maintenance in six months. Stick with an oil-based product, but look into DeckWise WiseCoat or even Ipe Oil if you're over Messmers. For application on Cumaru’s tight grain, keep your rags moving fast—do small sections and wipe completely dry within 20 minutes. If that stuff pools on the surface, you'll be dealing with a sticky mess by lunch.

Phil JenningsAug 3, 2026 at 10:34 PM

Robert hit the nail on the head regarding the Verde; it just won't hold up in the Florida sun. If you want that natural look without the Messmers headache, I’ve had great luck with TWP 100 series on Cumaru. It penetrates better than the thicker oils, which helps avoid that gummy surface issue you're worried about. Work in four-foot sections, maintain a wet edge, and use a high-quality lambswool applicator to keep the coat thin. If you’re really nervous about stickiness, do a test board first to gauge the absorption rate of that specific batch. Don't overthink it—just keep it thin and keep wiping.

Luis HerreraAug 8, 2026 at 10:34 PM

I've moved away from the heavy oils entirely for Florida Cumaru because of that tacky finish risk. I've had much better results using Armstrong-Clark’s semi-transparent in Cedar tone. Because it’s a non-drying oil, it doesn't build up a surface film that peels or gets gummy. I apply it during the cooler parts of the day—definitely not in direct midday sun—to ensure the wood actually drinks the oil before it starts skinning over. If you really need that natural look, this product handles the UV degradation gracefully by fading evenly, making your annual maintenance recoat a simple wash-and-spray job rather than a full sand-down.