Replies

1. 
   nikkiwood | Jun 24, 2004 05:07am | #1

   WO will hold up very well, and whether or not to apply a finish is really a matter of personal taste. Many prefer the weathered look a piece will take on after being exposed to the elements.

   However, your chair will last longer with a finish of some sort. I prefer a wipe-on oil with UV inhibitors, since it is easy to renew the finish every few years. Any film finish will deteriorate rather rapidly, and if you let it go too long, you must strip off the old finish before applying the new.

2. 
   Alan | Jun 25, 2004 02:31am | #2

   Steve,

   As Nikkiwood said, it's a matter of choice.  White oak weathers very well.

   But whether you finish the whole piece or not, get some epoxy and put a heavy coat, or two or three, on the bottom of the legs and anyplace else where end grain sits directly on the ground.  Keeping end grain off of the soil, grass, concrete or whatever, will greatly extend the life of your work.

   Alan

3. 
   nikkiwood | Jun 26, 2004 08:11am | #3

   I second Alan's recommendation re: a coat or two of epoxy adhesive on the bottom of the legs. This stops the natural wicking of moisture through the end grain, and is a good practice whether or not you decide to apply a finish to your chair.