Hi, just another N00B with questions.....

Hi woodies - I tackeled an ambitious project this summer redoing almost the entire back yard, patios and deck.... of course it's not done going into winter.....

Now I'm looking for help in regards to finishing the Brazilian hardwood benches that we put in. The've been drilled,countersunk, and assembled untreated other then endgrain sealer. There are a few knott holes and minor splits that I would like to fill with a clear epoxy... if that is an okay option. If it is ok to epoxy, is there a preferred type? Is there a preferred method I don't know enough to ask about? I'm planning to use a little sandpaper, then 0000 steel wool, tack cloth, wipe down with acetone, with a finish seal of Penofin.

Since I'm new to wood and have been taking direction from sales guys I'd like to make sure I'm on the right track. For reference pictures of the project. http://bluetyr.smugmug.com/gallery/1750557

Thanks for helping the noob.... :)

mountain eagle

You sure had an industrious undertaking thios past summer, Looks great.

IMHO the Sun is going to eat at whatever finish you try to apply, especially the high altitude you live in and the clear winter skys. UV rays will distroy what ever you apply. Leave off the epoxy and deal with the holes as figuring of the wood. Use an oil such as Teak oil or boat finish oil. Replinish annually or simi annually (Spring & Fall) and keep the wood fresh and clear.

I'm not up on brands and perhaps others have some suggestions but I would not try to seal the wood with a hardening agent such as Marine Varnish or Epoxy or Polyurethane and they cannot withstand the UV rays.

I looked up your Penofin, looks like the exact thing I had in mind, Bit on the pricy side but might be worth it. I am goting to investigate it for my use.

Thanks Hickory, Hadn't thought about the UV damage issues... really should living here though. I'm also concerned that when left out year round and exposed to water and freezing temps that ice will make the small splitting worse, and the larger holes might catch clothes of those lounging on the deck. Any chance there's a UV resistant epoxy?

mountian eagle

I would think that epoxy would be OK - after all, it's used on boats, aircraft and all sorts of things. I'm sure it'd handle UV just fine.