I'm restoring an outdoor bench. Cast iron sides/back with an open, floral lattice design; I'm painting it verdigris (see here: http://www.lucydesignsonline.com/2011/06/verdigris-sailfish.html). The wood is Red Oak.
Suggestions on whether to stain the oak, and if so what color, to complement the verdigris frame?
Should I oil the wood? I have used Minwax Antique Oil finish on all my interior furniture, and loved it --- but is it moisture- and UV-resistant? What about Tung oil, or some other oil?
Spar varnish? I fixed a threshold 5 years ago and used Minwax spar varnish...it's ok, but a bit flakey looking --- and I've heard that spar varnish needs re-sanding & reapplication pretty regularly.
Lastly, I saw a member recommended hot paraffin. I can see that this will be pretty moisture resistant, but wouldn't it rub off (not good for the bench or the backside of my pants!)? What about UV resistance?
Thanks!
Suggestions on whether to stain the oak, and if so what color, to complement the verdigris frame?
Should I oil the wood? I have used Minwax Antique Oil finish on all my interior furniture, and loved it --- but is it moisture- and UV-resistant? What about Tung oil, or some other oil?
Spar varnish? I fixed a threshold 5 years ago and used Minwax spar varnish...it's ok, but a bit flakey looking --- and I've heard that spar varnish needs re-sanding & reapplication pretty regularly.
Lastly, I saw a member recommended hot paraffin. I can see that this will be pretty moisture resistant, but wouldn't it rub off (not good for the bench or the backside of my pants!)? What about UV resistance?
Thanks!
