Care of Wood on Old Roof Racks?

[blueosprey90]

I have been using clear penetrating epoxy sealer (CPES) on most of my outdoor wood for years, sometimes covered with an additional layer or two of exterior polyurethane or spar varnish.

This is a US supplier, but I suspect you can find something similar in Europe.

https://www.rotdoctor.com/products/product.html


Definitely check out what the boat owners use on their exposed wood. Consider that you have both a wood protection and ultraviolet light issue (from the sun).

And I think the dark streaks in your wood are probably mold and maybe will bleach out.

[Maver1ck]

Luckily I live close to the ocean at the moment and a local boat restorer (who also enjoys restoring classic cars) is just down the road from me and is willing to take on the project.

He tried to explain his process to me, but I'm afraid it's too complicated for me to faithfully repeat here. Suffice it to say it is a multi-step process that requires extensive knowledge of the chemicals required to prepare wood for a long life surrounded by salt water.

I will update again if/when it's all resolved.

[Maver1ck]

Back in business!

Plenty of sanding to get back to fresh wood, one coat of epoxy, lightly sanded again and then sprayed with a catalyzed polyurethane.

He mentioned that if it were a show car he probably would have done three coats of epoxy, sanding between each one, just to get it perfectly smooth. There is some roughness from just one coat of epoxy as well as some drips from the clear coat...but overall I am happy with the outcome, assuming it does in fact last more than one season this time!

[eternal optimist]

That looks fabulous

[Army]

That looks very nice - all that black staining is gone.

As for multi season durability - get a large car port! Failing that: Perhaps you could rig up some sort of roof rack car cover that doesn't scratch the paint????

I dunno I guess there is (as usual) a protect : damage ratio in there to be figured out (i.e. save one bit but kill another doing it)

[Ron Kwas]

Mav;

...rackwood looks like fine Danish furniture now...what's not to like!...I just hope the treatment has a good UV factor so it will stand up well to the sun's relentless attack...

Happy Travels