Sure need some advice.
I’m building an Arbor (Arch Thingy) out of cedar and was wondering the best way to seal it and retain the awesome look of the wood. It will be outdoors, so want it to last. Do not want to stain, just seal.
With all of the trellis and corbels I had to cut, spraying would best best, I think…
Thanks all, alot of work into this with pics to come when complete.
NN
I would think an oil base sealer would be best but ultimately, I think it will turn that silvery gray cedar usually turns. I’ve used Olympic’s exterior sealer before, worked pretty good. Never thought Thompson’s was all that good and didn’t seem to last long. My Grandad swore by boiled linseed oil.
“Apathy is the Glove into Which Evil Slips It’s Hand”, but really, who cares?
Since most of the east coast cedar mills have shut down, I’m guessing you’re using western red cedar? That being said, go to a quality paint store, not one of the local big box stores, and inquire what they’d recommend, as a conditioner/sealer. Benjamin Moore carries a quality product, but I can’t remember the name. Also, if you’re still in the “building” stage, it’s very important to seal all of your cuts, and joints, prior to assembly! Most clear sealers, that only seal, not stain, have no UV protection from the damaging rays of the sun, and will allow the typical greying process to start very soon. Having used red cedar for years, on customers projects, it’s truly a beautiful species of wood, but requires a bit LOT more “attention” to maintain its luster, if you get my drift. Hope that helps.
ARBORCOAT is the Benjamin Moore product I was referring to above. It comes in a variety of choices…
One more tip, be sure to get ya’ a few Carpenter Bee traps…
Thanks a heap for the great advice!!
Didn’t even think about those Dang Bees…****!!
Will see what I can come up with. And yes, Western Red Cedar. Purty stuff!
If anyone knows of something proven that can be sprayed on the cedar to prevent those nasty critters from drilling, please let me know.
Can certainly place a couple traps nearby but, won’t get em all:angry:!
NN
I have a solid wood front door that I used spar urethane on,still looks as good as the day I installed it. That was 9 years ago.Also gives UV protection.
Check out http://www.cedarbureau.org. While it’s more for siding and roofs, there some good reads about cedar. I’m not sure what the best topical treatment is to use, but I do know that frequency is better than one product or the other.
Come on Glenn, you don wid it yet?
“Apathy is the Glove into Which Evil Slips It’s Hand”, but really, who cares?
Use the Ready seal product. We use all the time looks great.
Look at where Jesus went to pick people. He didn’t go to the colleges; he got guys off the fishing docks.
quote:
Originally posted by DFreedomCome on Glenn, you don wid it yet?
“Apathy is the Glove into Which Evil Slips It’s Hand”, but really, who cares?
Man I wish. Had to put on hold due to all the items I have had to store in my shop till sons home closing and upcoming wedding:stuck_out_tongue:. Let alone all the other things going on. Closing is March 11th, so things will be moved out after that.
Exciting times, tho!!
NN
I get it Brother. Life sure gets in the way of life, doesn’t it. I plan to do something specific every weekend, sometimes it gets done, sometimes it doesn’t.
“Apathy is the Glove into Which Evil Slips It’s Hand”, but really, who cares?