Varnishing

[carlton23]

Can someone please advise and oblige on outdoor varnishing of hardwood surround doors and windows, ie: the best type of brush to use, and do I dilute the varnish with thinners, if so, at what percentage. I have removed the old stain down to bare wood, and wish to make a decent job of it. Also, what is the best varnish to use? TIA.

[Clanad]

A fine natural bristle brush is best, however, any good, fine bristle brush will do. Please do not use an ordianry furniture finish varnish for your project. Here in the U.S., the clear coat of choice would be either Spar Varnish or Polyurethane.

I just completed refinishing a cedar outdoor bench for the garden using spar varnish. It's the second time I've refinished it and the last one looked pretty good for about 4 years through all kinds of weather.

At least two coats between which one uses fine steel wool to smooth the suraface.

Best of luck!

[fbg40]

Hi Carlton
Just seen your question. I have had hardwood window frames for the past 30 years or more, and have never used varnish. I was advised, and have always used SADOLIN. This is a wood preserver that is so easy to use - you simply sand your timber to a fine finish, then apply Sadolin with a brush or paint pad or whatever. It comes in a variety of colours and clear - you pays your money and takes your choice ! It allows the wood to breathe.
Hope this helps
FBG40

[carlton23]

Thats what I will use , thanks very much fbg40