[Nigel]

Alright DIY experts, I’m after some knowledge. I’ve just made a garden bench as a little project while I’m out of action on the climbing front. I’ve made it out of smooth planed softwood from B&Q (I readily accept this is probably the worst wood to make it from so no comments please!). I have made a nice job of it so would like a nice finish to match. I’m a bit bewildered by the stuff on offer. Do I:

•   Use an exterior woodstain only?
•   Use woodstain then varnish?
•   Varnish only?
•   Some other wood preservative finish?

I don't want to paint it. I'd like to see the wood.

Any thoughts? 

[Scouse D]

I'd like to see the wood.

filth

[Jim]

wood stain is only to colour the wood. i would use a wood preservative treatment and then finish with varnish or oil depending on the type of finish you want

[slackline]

Linseed oil perhaps?

I've got to redo my bench this summer, pain in the arse as when its ok to do it I'd rather be out climbing. 

[jdal]

This stuff looks ok: http://www.greenleafproducts.co.uk/

But I bet you'll need to treat it at least once a year - despite what it says on the tin.

[slackline]

But I bet you'll need to treat it at least once a year - despite what it says on the tin.

Using a cover in winter can help mitigate this need.

[rich d]

http://ukbouldering.com/board/index.php?topic=17416.25

[Nigel]

Good knowledge Jim. Though I'm guessing most woodstains have preservatives in them already so I can colour and treat at the same time, then varnish on top. Yacht varnish is best I'm guessing.

Scouse, I want to see YOUR wood.

[Falling Down]

>•   Some other wood preservative finish?


Sikkens products are the best IMHO - do the job in one and last for ages.  They come in various colours from almost translucent to your deep mahogany.  Easy to apply and clean.... job done.

[Nigel]

>•   Some other wood preservative finish?


Sikkens products are the best IMHO - do the job in one and last for ages.  They come in various colours from almost translucent to your deep mahogany.  Easy to apply and clean.... job done.

Is that a one coat affair, i.e. equivalent to stain plus varnish? If so it would save me some work! Who stocks it in Sheffield?

[Falling Down]

One job (stain + seal) in two coats normally. No idea about Sheffield I think I just got mine from B&Q or Wickes....