Replies

1. 
   Howard_Acheson | Jul 07, 2000 11:50pm | #1

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   If you really want the table to last with its natural color, the only option is to keep it covered. There is no clear finish that will maintain and protect the wood for more than one year; and that one year depends on your location.

   Spar varnish is a good choice for an outdoor finish. It contains UV inhibitors and is flexible enough to allow the wood movement without cracking. Be sure to use actual marine spar varnish. There are many that are not really marine types. Go to a marine store to buy it.

   Apply it by thinning 10-25% with the recommended thinner, let dry and then apply 5-6 full coats sanding lightly between each coat. If you keep it covered, this should last 3-4 years and then you will need to sand and reapply another coat or two.

   I would not recommend using an epoxy primer. It would not have the flexibility to deal with the wood movement. There is no way that a finish can make the wood harder than it is. In fact, the softer the wood, the more flexible the finish should be. A hard finish would crack/craze if it was dented while a flexible finish will maintain its integrety.