Replies

1. 
   RW | Oct 28, 2002 04:22pm | #1

   Well almost no finish will render your piece bulletproof to mositure changes, and I'd say at least make the attempt during use not to get things wet and let them stay that way. Finishes that resist water fairly well: nitrocellulose lacquer is ok, a step up from that would be your Alkyd varnishes, then I'd say your conversion varnish / CAB or precat lacquers, and the high end phenolic resin varnishes probably the best at water resistance. Behlen's "Rock Hard" table top varnish is a phenolic that I like fairly well. Brushes much better when cut down about 1 to 3 with naptha, and rubs out very well if you're looking to change the sheen. That being said, find out ahead of time what's on it, make sure what's going over it is compatible, and clean the surface well. This is probably a good opportunity for a sealer / tie coat of shellac (dewaxed) if you have any doubts.

1. 
   Novice | Oct 29, 2002 07:46am | #3

   Thanks so much for your answer and suggestions.  I guess I have some homework to do.  I recently bought "Great wood finishes" and "Hand applied finishes".  I need to read up on it to be able to understand everything you suggested.

   novice

2. 
   Alan | Oct 29, 2002 05:35am | #2

   Novice,

   Epoxy will seal the wood so that moisture would not be a problem.  However you must completely encapsulate the wood with the epoxy for it to work.  This means making sure that every tiny bit of wood is coated, inside, outside, upside down.  Any time you break the epoxy seal, whether by drilling for screws for a towel rack or a deep scratch, you will have to re-seal that spot with more epoxy.

   I'm a huge fan of epoxy.  Your plans would be an excellent application for it.  Go to the library and look at The Gougeon Brothers on Boat Construction; it's a great primer on the use of epoxy on wood.

   Alan

1. 
   Novice | Oct 29, 2002 07:47am | #4

   Alan,

   THANKS for your reply and your suggestions.  I'll go to the library and see if I can find the book you mentioned.

   novice

2. 
   AlanTurner | Oct 31, 2002 01:44am | #5

   And, this company publishes a free newletter which you can subscribe to on its web site, and has much information.  They do the West System epoxy, which is a great product.