For this test, five wood species were treated with five different types of outdoor finish, and then racks of sample boards were left to sit outside for a year in Oregon, New Mexico, Louisiana, and Connecticut. Each region subjected the samples to a unique set of climate conditions. In the end, this test provided new insight on how outdoor finishes and different types of wood hold up to the elements.

Three coats of Zar Exterior Water-Based Polyurethane were applied to the wood samples in this test. On average, by the end of the year, about 20% of the finish had deteriorated, resulting in areas of weathered gray. Where the finish remained, much of it showed areas of flaking and chipping. The mix of grayed wood and remaining finish produced an unsightly mottled look. The Zar Exterior Water-Based Polyurethane received a rating of unacceptable. It is available from www.ugl.com.

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