Wood Treatment Suggestions

[thiggy]

I have a new utility trailer with a treated pine bed. In order to help it last as long as possible, I am considering treating with a water repellant. I know that Thompson's Water Seal is very heavily advertised, but that usually means it is more expensive than other similar products. Does anyone have any suggestions of a suitable product that I might wish to use. Appearance is not a major factor, but I do not want to use a coating with pigments. Thanks

[sweensdv]

I treat the bed of my trailer with Thompson's every spring. After 11 years the bed is in excellent shape and it is exposed to the WI elements 24/7/365. I'm sure there are other products that are just as good but Thompson's has worked for me.

[cabinetman]

I would use Penofin in clear.

.

[thiggy]

Thanks for your suggestions.

[Dal300]

Remember, you not only have to treat the top, but also the bottom of the boards.

I used thompsons on the top of mine but on the bottom I brush waste motor oil on.

It may not last, but it's been there for almost 12 years of running in the salt belt.

[thiggy]

Follow Up - I went with Thompson's Water Seal and was disappointed to find that it is now a waterborne treatment. It looks like it does not soak in the wood nearly as readily as the Thompson's that I have used in the past, which was a petrolium based sealer. It applies a milky white and dries clear, similar to the way that latex varnishes appear. I have serious doubts that it will be as effective as the former formula.

[CaptRandy]

When you finally remove the Thompsons, look to Wolmans F $ P or Ready Seal.