Refurbishing outdoor hand rails. (I really know nothing about timber!)

Hi everyone.
I own a Pole home in the bush just Sth of Cairns.
As such, my timber home takes a beating. It's time to refurbish my hand rails etc but I have no idea about this job re stain or paint etc. I have no idea what the timber is, apart from it's a Nth QLD timber. (Sorry.)
After sanding, what do you suggest to paint/stain, coat the hand rails with? I do like a darkish finish.
Thanks for any assistance with this and again, apologies for my lack of knowledge on what terms to use etc.
Best wishes all.
Ken
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Paint or marine spar varnish. If you go with varnish make sure it is specified for outdoor use as plain old spar varnishes often don't have the UV protectants.

Thanks Rob.Ill look into it.
Good on you.

Ken

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Originally Posted by rob streeper

Paint or marine spar varnish. If you go with varnish make sure it is specified for outdoor use as plain old spar varnishes often don't have the UV protectants.

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If you're buying a "marine" finish try and buy from a "marine" store -- stuff from the BORG (Green shed) is typically of lesser quality

Hi Baytown,
I have always found the team at Cairns Coatings in Scott St to give good advice.
Cheers,
Macandrita

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ian

If you're buying a "marine" finish try and buy from a "marine" store -- stuff from the BORG (Green shed) is typically of lesser quality

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by macandrita

Hi Baytown,
I have always found the team at Cairns Coatings in Scott St to give good advice.
Cheers,
Macandrita

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Thanks Macandrita.
Ill get on to them when I go into town. Good on you.

Ken

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Baytown

After sanding, what do you suggest to paint/stain, coat the hand rails with? I do like a darkish finish.

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Give your location, despite what the paint store people might tell you, no varnish (marine grade or otherwise) will withstand the rigours of your climate for more than a year or so.
If it was me I would paint it with a good quality outdoor paint.
For a long life, preparation is the key, follow the manufacturers instructions and use a good quality undercoat as part of the process.