Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

May, 2003

Wood Finishing - Paint for Milled Wood

Q. For a milled piece of oak wood with raised letters and regardless of cost, what would withstand the weather the best over a long period of time? The color should be made to look like bronze. Thanking you in advance for your info.

A. My best recommendation would be to obtain a linseed oil type, oil based wood preservative product, and saturate the wooden part that you want to paint. Subject the part either by submerging it in the preservative, or apply four or five good wet applications so that the parts will absorb as much of the preservative as possible. Pay extra close attention to the end grain of the oak, these areas will tend to absorb more liquid. This should give you a good base in which to paint on. Be certain the wood preservative is not a silicone based product, the paint will not stick to silicone.

A primer surfacer is recommended to seal the wood. Sand the primer with a fine grit sand paper such as 320 grit to create a good smooth surface. Again any end grain should be sanded well and re-apply the primer to insure good coverage and a good seal.

As for the bronzing, a good exterior quality paint will do just fine these paints can usually be brushed on. However an automotive quality two component polyurethane will give you great exterior durability. The automotive paints are available in a much broader spectrum of metalic colors and are very well suited for the out door elements. These types of paints are designed to be spray applied, be sure that you are able to spray these types of paints.

We always strongly recommend that you experiment with the coating system before you apply it t the job you have in hand. That way you will prevent failures when you coat the product.

Please be aware that coatings and solvents are chemicals and therefore you should always pay attention to proper handling procedures and be prepared to wear protective clothing, such as respirators, gloves, coveralls, etc. For further information on the health and safety requirements for the coatings and solvents you wish to use we strongly advised you to contact your local coating supplier. If possible, go the extra step and look for this information on the website of the product vendor.