Let's choose a finish - cypress edition!

[rob.nester]

You guys were great with feedback on finishes the last time I asked, so I figured I'd ask again.

This time around, I'm looking for suggestions on a good finish for a pair of cypress end tables for my covered front porch.

I chose cypress because it's a pretty weather / rot resistant wood, and I know that left untreated it'll fade to a gray (which I'm pretty okay with...), but I'm wondering if it'd be worthwhile to throw some stain / finish on it or just let it be? I won't be in contact with the ground, just my front porch deck.

 

[BKHam]

go to 18:15 mark in this video where he starts putting on finish. may be slightly overkill but is a cool epoxy / varnish blend. cool idea.

http://www.thewoodwhisperer.com/videos/outdoor-sitting-bench/?mode=posts&apt=video

 

[farmerbw]

Dude, like Elsa says "Let It Go" if you're happy with the gray coloration when it ages. I wouldn't stain it for sure. There are plenty of marine exterior finishes available that would probably hold up well on a protected porch, but you may eventually end up having to redo it at some point down the road. Then there's always clear paint if you wanna try that route.

B.

 

[JackLeg]

If it's on a covered porch, and you like the look of the cypress itself, use General Finishes 450 Exterior. It will stay clear and give good protection. It's not really great for UV or mildew, but nothing but paint is that I know of.

 

[Phil S]

I would use Sikkens Cetol. I have found this to be an excellent product. Strong yet flexible and great UV blocking

 

[golfdad]

phil who makes that....never heard of it

 

[Phil S]

phil who makes that....never heard of it

Sikkens is a European company. It is manufactured in the states by Akzo Noobel Coaings Troy Michigan
Available here at Bennie Moore in Garner
Great stuff

 

[Jeff]

A covered front porch is excellent so I'd leave them weather naturally without finishing.

A perspective on outdoor furniture.

http://www.finewoodworking.com/item/56991/build-a-garden-bench

Cypress planter boxes-2009.

​

...and 2015 with no finish...

​

 

[rob.nester]

A covered front porch is excellent so I'd leave them weather naturally without finishing.

A perspective on outdoor furniture.

http://www.finewoodworking.com/item/56991/build-a-garden-bench

Cypress planter boxes-2009.
(image removed)
...and 2015 with no finish...
(image removed)

Jeff,
That's awesome to see - I think this solidifies my "just leave them be" thoughts on the tables once they're complete.

 

[CrealBilly]

Stating the obvious... Why thank you captain obvious... Tables are meant to hold cups of liquid and those cups will be spilled (not a question of IF but WILL - its just a matter of time). Without a good finish that liquid will soak right into the bare wood and leave the nasty woodworking 5 letter word --- STAIN ---.

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