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.

Four coats of McCloskey Man O’War Marine Spar Varnish were applied to the wood samples in this test. The finish generally held up well on the mahogany, ipé, and pine. Same with the cedar samples, except for the one that visited New Mexico-that one showed some finish deterioration. The white oak samples had the toughest time, with about 40% of the finish deteriorating. The McCloskey Man O’War Marine Spar Varnish received a rating of fair to good. It is available from www.mccloskeyfinishes.com.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Estwing Dead-Blow Mallet

A quality dead-blow mallet that packs and punch but isn't too heavy for furniture work.

Buy at Amazon

Blackwing Pencils

If you've listened to Shop Talk Live, you've heard them talk more about these pencils than you could possibly imagine.

Buy at Amazon

Double Sided Tape

A thin woven core makes XFasten tape strong yet not too thick (0.008 in.), and helps it hold powerfully without being difficult to peel off.

Buy at Amazon