UV Protection against color change

[Mark Woodmark]

What does everybody use to keep the UV rays from changing the color of woods such as Padauk, Red Heart, Bloodwood, Yellow Heart, etc? I have tried Armor All, but it darkens the wood similar to what oil would do. Im looking for a UV protectant that is crystal clear

[Julian Wong]

sorry to burst your bubble. Doesn't exist. Most water bourne finishes (without color/dye added) will not darken your wood when you lay it on. But none offer 100% UV protection. Oxidation is another culprit to oxidation and most finishes I know except a thick layer pf epoxy polymer cannot prevent oxidation. Most finishes will allow some degree of air exchange, and eventuallt over time darken. It's just a matter of time.

[Ray McCullie]

One word;

Paint.

[Jack Pinkham]

No experience with it, but you might investigate Sikkens Cetol UV Interior. http://www.nam.sikkens.com/product.cfm?product_id=11&product_category=interior

Sikkens exterior Cetol SRD stains are very good for UV protection.

[Howard Acheson]

A point to keep in mind is that UV protectorant is degraded as it absorbs UV. In other words is loses its effectiveness within a short period of time. Even the best marine finishes need sanding and reapplication of a finish every year or so.