How to finish White Oak for exterior use?

[Scott Behrens]

Ok guys, I did a quick search and didn't come up with the answer I'm looking for. I have a very limited knowledge on finishing and thought I'd ask. My mother got an unfinished Amish built white oak glider bench for her deck for Christmas and needs to know how to finish it. I think she'd like it to have some color but she's not sure yet. What are the steps to a nice finish that will withstand the Iowa weather?

Thanks in advance,
Scott

[John Weber]

Scott,

Much of my house door and window trim is white oak. I use an oil based primer and a latex top coat. Seems to hold up very well.

John

[thomas prevost]

for a natural appearance use a marine spar varnish. Many companies sell it.

[Dave Richards]

If you mother wants a natural look without the gloss of spar varnish, there are a number of marine brightwork finishes out there. Cetol is an example.

You might want to look for a book call Brightwork--The Art of Finishing Wood by Rebecca Wittman for some good information.
http://www.woodenboatstore.com/store/images/300260S.JPG

[Glenn Clabo]

Scott,
I agree with Thomas...Spar Varnish is the best. Around this part of the world it's used on everything wood...from boats to doors. Here's a good company and explanation of the products they have. They are great people to talk to also.

www.jamestowndistributors.com/varnish.htm (http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/varnish.htm)