I would appreciate some feedback from the experienced out there.
I have built an IPE patio table and would know like to put some sort of finish on it.
My experience with outdoor finish has not been good in the past. The Cedar pergola was coated with Olympic Semi Transparent. 2 years later it is a combination of worn through and black splotches. Similar story with the deck.
My own preference would be to use something that does not contain any organic oils for the mildew causing bacteria to feed upon. Mineral Oil with a UV inhibitor and some parafin wax for water resistance.
Thanks for any words of wisdom
Ron
Replies
Ron,
From a previous thread, here's what I do for ipe decks:
After cutting to length, all cut ends of boards should be end sealed. Use a paraffin or water-based wax emulsion end sealer. End sealing helps reduce most end checking. The sooner the ends are sealed after cutting, the more effective it will be.
If a natural weathered look is desired, Ipe will normally season in 6 to 12 months. The wood will turn a silvery gray color and no further maintenance will be required except for normal cleaning. If you intend to allow your deck to weather naturally, a wood stabilizing agent such as "Seasonite" (by Flood Co.) should be applied immediately after installation. This stabilizing agent can also help prevent minor surface checking that has the potential of occurring on some of the deck boards during the natural drying and seasoning process of the wood.
For installations where a "finished wood" appearance is desired, apply a premium penetrating oil finish with a high U.V. inhibitor rating such as "Penofin" (by Performance Coatings). The finish should be reapplied periodically to maintain the desired color, depending upon the exposure to the sun and surface wear.
Penofin has since come out with an "exotic wood" finish that they advertise for Ipe and other exotics. No complaints.
I know a guy here who owns a company that produces natural paints and varnishes. According to him parafin is the last wax you would want to use for water resistance.
Philip