What should I use to finish a door I just had made. It is made out of cherry. The door is and exterior door. It will be placed under a porch that will protect it from “most” of the elements. I was thinking about using a marine varnish. Is there a better product for this application?
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
Listeners write in about saving frogs, attic ductwork, lime wash, and energy ratings for real estate.
Featured Video
How to Install Exterior Window TrimHighlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
I was thinking about using a marine varnish. Is there a better product for this application?
No.
A good quality marine varnish--make sure it's really varnish, and not polyurethane--should give you 10-15 years of trouble-free protection in the situation you describe. If you were to have direct sunlight on the door for a substantial part of the day, it wouldn't last that long, but it will still do the best job of any product I know about.
It is getting more difficult to find true marine varnish these days, though. Read the label carefully; polyurethane coatings are not the same thing and do not provide the same level of protection.
Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
a quick thought some others here might comment on.
How's about using a moisture cure finish like I use on some floors in wet areas.
Where's the ffin man when ya need him?
Be well finished
andy
My life is my passion!
http://CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM
Benjamin moore has a product that I used on a cherry exterior door that we built about 6 years ago. It has a UV inhibitor and seems to be holding very well. I was there today :) Sorry can't remember the name
I use a mix that I learned years ago working on boats. Mix 1 part each of tung oil, turpentine (not mineral spirits or thinner) and spar varnish. Stir well and brush well into the wood with a good bristle brush, After a few minutes, wipe off the excess and let dry overnight. Repeat once or twice more.
I have used it for years on all sorts of wood and wood products with excellent results. Easy to maintain over time...a light sanding and new application is all that needs to be done.
The wood will darken, but not yellow and I have never noticed any bubbling or peeling developing.
watch your rags...they can be combustable.
McCloskey waterborne exterior spar varnish. Yes, waterborne. Get it from http://www.homesteadfinishing.com and be sure to get a good brush from them, too.
The moisture cure exterior urethanes are tough, but I would not use it on the door. I do, however, use moisture cure on exterior wood thresholds. Woodworkers Supply (http://www.woodworker.com) sells it in small cans, just the right size for a few sills.