Finishing a Wooden Swing

Extraordinarily difficult question

Bill Tindall, E.Tn.

UV, water and temperature defeat anything, eventually. Depending on climate you can add mold to the list, the top of the list.

One can not begin to offer guidance without knowing where you live for the answer in TN is different than Michigan, than Arizona, than Florida.

Paint could be the best option.

Re: Finishing a Wooden Swing

David Yoho

Not sure what's cracking - the finish or the wood? If it's the finish it sounds like whatever was used is too hard (think polyurethane). Outdoor items like this need something that's flexible like a spar urethane. Like Bill said - things like sun, water, and temperature will affect any outdoor finish in time.

You have two choices. If you don't mind constant work to keep a clear finish looking fresh, then find the best one you can and go with it. If you would rather finish it and not have to fuss with it constantly then go with paint.

Re: Finishing a Wooden Swing

Howard Pollack

You could go to a nautical supply house and ask them for the best, most resilient teak finish. Boats often have a lot of teak and they must tolerate terrible conditions. -Howard

Re:  Extraordinarily difficult question

Michael Farinella

We live in SW Utah, about 6000 ft elevation. The wood is oak. I really don't want to paint it.

you are in luck

Bill Tindall, E.Tn.

You don't have to worry about mold turning any varnish like material black. Your challenge will be UV light. You did not mention the wood used. Looking around your country side you see sun bleached wood structures that have been out in the weather for decades. Many would be satisfied letting the swing develop this appearance.

There are marine varnishes that last many years in the sun. They make the wood dark brown. They aren't cheap.

Because mold is not a problem the oiling will suffice with the cost of frequent maintenance.

In your travels look for outdoor examples and if you see one that works in your area ask what was done.