Spar urethane question

[Mary K]

Do I urethane the edges? I haven't so far, but I keep meaning to ask.

Thanks

Mk

[mikeschn]

The short answer: unprotected edges, yes. If it's going to be a glued up edge, no.

Mike...

[48Rob]

Mary,

Mike is correct.

Any wood that is sealed/painted/treated, should have all sides coated.


Edges are considered "sides".

The result of leaving a side, or edges uncoated is the potential for more moisture penetration on one side than the other, causing the wood to move, warp, delaminate or swell.

Even number of coatings is best, that is, if you have 5 coats of varnish on one side, you should also have 5 on the other.
The exception being in teardrop construction where you might be applying glue to hold aluminum siding on.

If you plan to "float" the aluminum, it is best to coat/seal the wood.
And if it is going to be covered, less expensive oil based paint could be used in place of expensive varnish.


Rob

[Mary K]

Thanks guy's!!

Heres my list:

Yes, on the door frame
Yes, on the bottm edge
Yes, on the hatch edge

No, on the top and front edge

Sound right?

Mk