Finishing Requirements And Recommendations

REQUIRED: Keep the columns completely dry (including the interior walls), AND SEAL PRIOR TO INSTALLATION. Also, raw columns are required to be sanded aggressively with #60 grit sandpaper prior to sealing. “Prime Columns are produced utilizing kiln dried after treatment (KDAT) Southern Yellow Pine (SYP). SYP is naturally hydroscopic and will pickup moisture very quickly from natural humidity in the air; therefore, products are required to be completely sealed prior to installation”.

PRIMING AND PAINTING OUR COLUMNS

To effectively seal the columns from the elements: after sanding with with #60 grit sandpaper, apply an oil based primer with a quality exterior latex topcoat. If utilizing our pre-primed columns only the topcoat needs to be applied.

STAINING OUR COLUMNS

WE ARE PLEASED TO RECOMMEND A STAINING SYSTEM USING WATERLOX® PRODUCTS

THIS SYSTEM IS BY FAR THE BEST WE HAVE TESTED. IN FACT, IT IS THE ONLY STAINING SYSTEM THAT WORKS 100% WHEN APPLIED PROPERLY PRIOR TO OUR COLUMNS BEING EXPOSED TO THE ELEMENTS. 

Waterlox® MARINE preserves the beauty and integrity of outdoor and marine wood projects. Waterlox® MARINE resin-modified Tung Oil products form a protective and elastic finish against sun/UV rays, harsh weather and moisture exposure. Waterlox® MARINE Finish is available in a satin sheen and high gloss.

To effectively seal the columns from the elements: after sanding with with #60 grit sandpaper, follow these instructions:

Mix the Waterlox® sealer with an interior oil based stain (equivalent to Varathane or Minwax). Ratio is 80% sealer to 20% oil based stain. 4-1 ratio. 

Apply 2 coats of the sealer/stain letting the 1st coat dry completely between applications. 

Then apply 2 coats of the Marine finish, again letting the first coat completely dry. (Probably would prefer the satin finish).

1). The sealer absolutely needs to be applied prior to exposure to the elements. 

2). The stain must be an INTERIOR oil based product (equivalent to Varathane or Minwax) to be compatible with the Waterlox Marine sealer. 4-1 ratio sealer to stain.

3). Maintenance on this system is relatively simple, basically add another coat of Marine finish when needed. (May require a light cleaning prior).

DO NOT USE WATER BASED STAINS OR SEALERS!! (These will not provide adequate protection from the elements). EXPECT natural wood movement including but not limited to; splitting - cracking - warping.