I’m preparing to make a table that will have a bluestone top and a teak base, which will be left outside year-round in Long Island near the sea. I’m not sure if you’re supposed to finish teak or just leave it exposed. What would you recommend for this project?
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Replies
quonset,
It can be left unfinished and will weather to a soft grey.
You can apply one of the exterior oil preservatives such as Cabot, Sikens etc to give it some added protection. This will require minimal maintenance.
I would suggest you don't varnish it unless you want to do it every year. This is what boat owners call bright work and it takes considerable time to do each year.
One other thing you may consider is where the feet contact the ground. I would suggest you apply a rubber membrane to them to stop the wicking of water into the end grain.
3M makes one builders use on sills and roofers routinely use one. It's a very simple way to increase the longevity of the tables legs. It has adhesive on one side so all you need to do is cut it to fit, peel off the back and stick it on.
Peter
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