Hi, I’m building an outdoor table (walnut) and live in Texas. I read a lot of articles about epoxy/varnish finish which seem to be the solution to UV and water aggression but my problem is that I want the table to look as natural as possible and non shiny. My ideal would be an oil/citrus solvent finish look which I know would not be protective enough. Is there another finish that I could look into to achieve both protection and natural finish? Thank you.
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Replies
A Sunbrella cover, which shields the table from UV light when not in use.
And, of course consider that the NATURAL color of walnut heartwood in exterior use is grey. (The sapwood will be subject to decay but the heartwood is a good exterior wood.)
I agree with Steve. Keeping the table out of the sun or under a cover is the only long term way to protect it from UV. The epoxy and varnish finish you mention is an option but the reason for the varnish component is that epoxy is rapidly attacked and destroyed by UV. The varnish required is a true marine varnish that contains UV protectorants. This varnish coating must be scuff sanded annually and a couple of new coats applied to maintain its appearance and protection.
Finally, walnut will be bleached out by UV loosing a good portion of its natural coloring.
All in all, take some advise from us boaters and buy the Sunbrella cover. It's money well spent.
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