Sikkens Will Offer Sample Cans of Wood Coatings To Help Contractors Select Colors and Finishes

Samples with applicators will be available through the Internet and dealers

Troy, Mich., March 28, 2006 – Akzo Nobel Decorative Coatings North America today announced that they will begin selling sample cans of its Sikkens brand of exterior wood-care products to help contractors and consumers select a color and finish for their wood surfaces.

The 4-ounce sample cans have a unique application brush built into the lid for easy use. The stains should be applied with the brush to an extra piece of wood or the underside of a deck to observe the color, coverage and finish that the coating provides.

“Now, even before they begin working on their projects, contractors and consumers will be able to see the significant difference that Sikkens products offer,” said Kelly Warren, Sikkens Marketing Manager. “These product samples will help builders and buyers alike choose exactly the right shade and finish for each wood surface.”

Applying the sample is as easy as 1-2-3! Step 1: Shake the can, Step 2: Twist open the lid and Step 3: apply the coating on an area of wood. The following product color samples will be available in sample cans:

Sikkens high-quality exterior coatings are preferred by building professionals for a complete range of wood installations, including decks built from all types of wood, log and conventional siding, entrance doors, garage doors, window frames, log homes, fences, outdoor furniture, shakes, boat docks, lattice, railings, deck furniture and trim. Beginning April 3, 2006, builders, painters, other contractors and consumers will be able to buy the sample cans directly over the Internet by visiting the Sikkens Web site or through their independent Sikkens dealers.

About Akzo Nobel Decorative Coatings North America

Based in Troy, Mich., Akzo Nobel Decorative Coatings North America (DCNA) is the business unit that manufactures the Sikkens line of decorative finishes, used to enhance and protect commercial buildings, homes and decks. It includes Cetol® (translucent) and Rubbol® (opaque) finishes for both interior and exterior use. Sikkens wood finishes line also includes waterborne interior stains and topcoats that offer a professional finish with minimal odor, easy application, quick-drying and fast cleanup with soap and water.

Recently, DCNA assumed direct responsibility for North American marketing and manufacturing of the company’s Synteko brand of high-end, wood floor coatings and established separate profit centers for Synteko and its longstanding Sikkens brand of wood care products.