Out door bench finish

[Larry R. Tysinger]

I have built an outdoor bench out of fir and would like to put a exterior oil of stain.

I would like the grain to show and would love to have some product recomendations.

I know it will need refinishing every year.

 

[bigcat4t9r]

I've used Sikkens Cetol SRD semi-transparent stain on my deck and have been pleased. I forget which magazine it was - FWW or FHB, did a test of various exterior wood finishes on different woods and different parts of the country, and Epifanes varnish came out best. They tested both the 1-part and 2-part products if my memory serves. They 2-part performed slightly better, but they recommended the 1-part as the 2-part benefits didn't outweigh the costs/effort. That stuff is $pendy though.

 

[Gofor]

I have had good luck with Cabots semi-translucent deck stain (left over from my deck). I have used it on a couple of pine log benches and also on the drop in sides for my utility trailer. Although it will mask the grain some, it still shows through, and the items I put it on seem to be weathering well after a year.

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