Thread: Weather proofing red cedar

If becoming gray is acceptable, no finish at all. That's the usual approach for cedar.

Otherwise, spar varnish for salt water environment. May need attention every couple years - sand and re-coat. PITA for louvres, of course. "Sand" blasting with cornstarch, or fine real sand, might be an alternate to sanding.

Cheers,
Joe

Hi John,

As Joe said, a spar varnish - Feast Watson have something like this and Wattyl have a Marine Clear.

Have a look at this discussion https://www.woodworkforums.com/f32/marine-varnish-9079

Cheers.

Thanks Joe and Brett for the comments. I'll pass them on to my mate and leave the decision up to him about which way he goes. I had a look at the discussion on the link you posted, Brett, plenty of food for thought there. I'll pass that on to my mate also as it may help him make up his mind.

Cheers

John

Hi John,
I made some for my house about 20 yrs ago. Used a Sikkens oil and only have had to clean and recoat twice. Because I did not use poly I did not have to scrape off the finish.

Whilst they have really dried they are very sound. There isn't anything that can withstand the rigours of sun and water, so I suggest you design so you can easily remove them and freshen them up.

cheers
conwood

ps- I just notice something about marine clear. I used this on a mates boat 2 yrs ago, and those same items are in my shed now for a freshen up and it's a pain to clean up. The marine environment is hard on everything.

Thanks Conwood for the reply. I had sort of made up my mind that using an oil would probably be the least labour intensive way to go, so have suggested to my mate that he have a look around and see which of the timber oils would be applicable ie colour, price, longevity etc. He may very well decide that, like my beard, he would allow the louvres to go grey naturally too!.