Replies

1. 
   nikkiwood | May 20, 2004 07:29am | #1

   Oil is the way to go. Any film finish – such as spar varnish – will flake off unless you sand and recoat every year or two. Once a film finish starts to degrade,you will have to strip it off entirely.

   Oil, on the other hand, can be reapplied after a quick rub down – mainly to remove any accumulated dirt. Be sure to use an oil that contains UV inhibitors. There are many on the market, but one I like that is commonly available (from HD) is called CLEAR WOOD FINISH from Minwax.

   Here is a trick I learned from an old hand many years ago, and it works great. And that’s to make your own wiping varnish – by mixing spar vanish (25%) with an exterior oil (75%), and then thin the mixture with mineral spirits to the consistency of heavy cream (so it can be wiped easily).

   The mixture builds quickly (2 or 3 coats is enough), and imparts a nice glow to the finish, which I like.

   If the piece is exposed to all the elements (sun and rain), you will have to recoat every year or two. I have a set of stuff on my front porch, and I have to recoat about every 5-6 years.

   The technique of making wiping varnish works equally well with interior products.

   Good luck.

2. 
   Gretchen | May 20, 2004 02:30pm | #2

   I found this reference on another board. As the poster said, if it does half what it promises it will be a great finish. I sent it to my son's FIL who has a log cabin in the Rockies and has to re-finish it every few years.  He used to "refinish" by reapplying oil but has since been told that after the primary coat this should not be done.

   http://www.onetimewood.com/

   Gretchen

   
   

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   Edited 5/20/2004 7:32 am ET by GRETCHEN

1. 
   Metod | May 20, 2004 03:05pm | #3

   Few years ago I built two kayaks (strip built) and used epoxy to seal the wood (and for fiberglassing). Finish with 4-5 coats of marine varnish, containing UV filters. I did not 'invent' this sequence, only followed some instructions - and I am very satisfied with the results.

   If it is good enough for a kayak, it should be good enough (just a guess) for some other outdoors fixtures. My epoxy and varnish were from Clark Craft (they usually advertise in Wooden Boat magazine). I only have their phone (from an old catalog): (716)873-2640. I am not affiliated with this outfit, just a satisfied customer.

   Metod

1. 
   jhausch | May 20, 2004 03:12pm | #4

   Respectfully, the finish of your boats is not appropriate for outdoor furniture. 

   Varnish and Epoxy varnish coatings will wear on outside corners and provide a path under the film for moisture.

1. 
   Metod | May 21, 2004 02:38pm | #5

   Jim,

   You have a good point. I did notice, that the epoxy (the one that I used) got soaked into the wood a bit. Of course, that does not resolve the issue of the 'vulnerability' of the topcoat varnish.

   Metod