Replies

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Dec 30, 2005 11:24pm | #1

   If esthetics aren't an issue the answer is high quality enamel paint.  The pigment will protect the wood much longer than any clear finish.  Red oak isn't nearly as good for exterior applications as white oak because of the open pores and should be given all the protection you can get. 

   Polyurethane isn't a particularly good choice if there is any sun involved as it is inherently less UV resistant than aklyd or phenolic resins.  Ordinarily I would recommend a good marine spar varnish from a boating store, not a paint store or "big box".  (Brands should be one of Interlux, Pettitt, or Ephifanes)  I am not at all sure how well that would spray, but in its traditional applications for marine brightwork, it is not sanded between coats. 

1. 
   Pascanale | Dec 30, 2005 11:50pm | #2

   I agree 100% on all your points. I do use Interlux on my marine applications but have always sanded between coats per instructions on the label (Interlux Clipper Clear #95). Boy, I'd sure like to skip that step on the brightwork I've maintained over the years.

   And, I would not recommend red oak for exterior apps either, as would I suggest a paint rather than varnish/clear coat. But, these aren't my choices since this is to be an "architectural restoration" thereby succumbing to the vagaries of "authenticity" versus practicality.

   In summary, if its true I don't have to sand between coats of the Interlux of which I'm very familiar, then I'm just left to its applicability by spraying. Otherwise, if the client agrees to paint, I'll certainly go with the enamel--alkyd I presume. Again, no issue with not sanding between coats on that either?

   Thanks,

   Pascanale

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Dec 31, 2005 12:11am | #3

   Sanding would always be better, of course.  But I haven't had a problem that I trace to not sanding, though I would keep multiple coats fairly closely spaced--overnight, not a week apart. 

1. 
   Pascanale | Dec 31, 2005 05:54am | #4

   Yes, I've read on the can of some finishes that either you applied within a set number of hours or needed to wait a number of days before applying the next coat. I'm just thinking there should be a product that is used customarily for these situations. Some production issue would prevail in driving such a product.

   Thanks for your advice!

   Pascanale

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Dec 31, 2005 06:35am | #5

   I agree there ought to be a more production oriented solution.  I would check out some of the other marine solutions, particularly the higher tech products from manufacturers like Awlgrip and Emron.  I should have mentioned them earlier.  But I haven't used that sort of thing personally and so it didn't enter my head.