Waterproofing fenders and woody maintenance

[lovntears]

Hello,

I am in the process of purchasing my first teardrop, and have a few questions. The tear has fenders mounted on it, but nothing was done to waterproof them before installation. The owner is going to pull them off and paint them black for me. I want to make sure they are water tight since this is a woody. The fenders are attached with several lag bolts through the wall. Should I silicone the entire hole? Maybe make a foam gasket?

The other question pertains to woody maintenance. The tear is very nice baltic birch all the way around, and I want to ensure that it lasts a long time. Should a new coat of urethane be added each year? Should the old coat be roughed up first, and then be applied with a brush?

Any other tips for woody maintenance here in the midwest where we get lots of sun and rain would be great.

Steve

[prohandyman]

Steve
IMO, I would use silicone in every screw and bolt hole you have, then attach the hardware. then maybe even put a dab over the screw head. I don't use urethane, but spar varnish. And yes, I sand the finish lightly before applying a fresh coat with a good china bristle brush. If you silicone, put your finish on first, then apply silicone. Most finishes won't stick to silicone.