I have read various opinions at several sites regarding putting a "finish" on ash splint seating. Everything from "don't do it," to shellac, spar varnish, to wipe-on poly, etc.
I am working on a Old Hickory style barrel back seatee swing that is on a boat dock during the season. The current splint is "white" due to sun bleaching. and broken through. Don't want to seal the splint so much that it becomes brittle but also want to provide some protection.
Any thoughts and suggestions are welcome.
Thank You! George Collins
(Weather / seat ...) below should be "Weather / Sea . . . . " Sorry for any confusion.
I've always recommended "marine-grade varnish" for anything that's going to be outdoors. It's usually an oil-based finish, mostly used on ships with teak wood from what I understand, and it is designed to keep wood in good condition when used in wet areas (weather / seat / etc.). From a quick Google search: "Marine varnish is a finish coating that protects your wood against sun, rain, wind, sea spray, UV rays, and chemicals. The products packaged and sold as marine or spar varnishs actually typically contain a mix of oil, solvent, resin, ultra-violet additives, and drying agents." -- Hope this helps!