What product protects exotic woods from water the best?

[ChristopherLPrice]

I made a bath bar and want to protect it from the moisture. I do not know if an oil or wax would be better than a varnish or urathane?

 

[demondeacon]

I would look into Waterlox products. It is a derivative from Tung Oil.

 

[hymie123]

I completed a restoration of a 1920's phonograph/vanity earlier this year. I completely replaced the failing veneer on the top. I finished with waterlox original gloss. Finish is holding up well. I applied 4 coats of waterlox allowing each coat to dry for 24 hours. This is the finished top before I installed ths sink and faucet. FYI: the sheen dies back a bit after 30 days.

 

[ChristopherLPrice]

Thank you Dave and Jim, I will definitely try Waterlox.

 

[hymie123]

I didn't mention it but one reason I choose Waterlox for this piece is that at any time I can easily recoat and the finish will burn into itself. So, if I notice the finish needs a new coat to freshen it up it is a simple process of cleaning, scuffing and applying an additional coat or two.

I used Waterlox marine on our exterior door and simply clean and apply an additional coat of finish every year or two.


TIP
Squeeze the air out of the can as you use the finish to keep the remaining finish in the can from gelling. I keep the small metal cap which is pried out of the lid of the can before use. I use what finish I need then squeeze the can bringing the remaining waterlox up to the very top of the can then replace the small metal cap, followed by the screw cap. If I have used a fair amount of finish I tend to use a wood clamp to squeeze the can. Yes, this makes my waterlox can look terrible but I have kept finish for years with this method. Many waterlox users complain that the finish gels quickly and they only use a fraction of the product.... You will not have this issue if you follow this tip!

 

[demondeacon]

And if you don't like the look of Hymie's ugly cans you can buy a few of these at Lee Valley which is what I use for half empty finishes.

Clear Durajar Utility Containers - Lee Valley Tools

www.leevalley.com

 

[JRedding]

And there’s always the low cost solution of adding marbles in the can to bring the level up.

 

[Oka]

Here is a note on Waterlox. It is fantastic on sealing the wood and making a waterproof finish.

However.......... if anyone dyes their hair and gets any of the mix on the surface, it is stained for good.

Noted from experience............