Replies

1. 
   peter28 | Jun 29, 2007 06:03pm | #1

   Steve,

   I would suggest you use an exterior varnish commonly known as spar varnish. There are some that offer superior protection (and price) such as Interlux and Epifane. Another brand I've had good results with is McCloskey Man of War varnish and it's a little less expensive. 

   Clean all the dust off the benches first. If you have a compressor, blow the pores clean. If not, vacuum it, and wipe it well with a clean cotton rag.

   There are many brushes for application some very expensive some not. Believe it or not I do all my varnishing with foam brushes. They lay a nice coat without any brush marks. Be careful when dipping the foam into the varnish. If you press it against the bottom of your container you will press air bubbles into it. You don't want this. Just dip it in about about a quarter to a third of the way in. When you start brushing it, lay it on in a thin even coat. You can brush it out a little but don't over brush it. Since it is a slow dryer, it will self level nicely. To get the hang of it do the underside of the seats first.

   Also, try and do this away from dust and bugs. You know Murphy's Law right? If you can do it out of direct sunlight too, so much the better. A minimum of 3-4 coats are required. Be sure to read the instructions.

   Make no mistake though, you'll need to maintain this surface. If they are subjected to lots of direct Texas sunlight, you"ll need to consider doing them yearly. This means a light sanding with 220 or 320 in the spring and re apply a few of coats. If they have enough shade you may be able to stretch it to every other year.

   These varnishes all have an amber cast to them and will give the teak a pleasing visual warmth IMO.

   Good Luck

   Peter