Hi,

Built some bird house supports and platforms out of regular common pine
board which will be located
outdoors. Probably should have used pressure treated, but didn't.

Anyway, what would offer the best outdoors protection:

oil based paint
latex based paint

regular stain
polyurethane stain

or,... ?

Suggestions as to types and brands would be most appreciated.

Thanks,
Bob

An oil based deck stain would be best, I think. Opaque is better than
clear or translucent stain, since it not only protects against moisture
but UV as well. It'll have to be reapplied every couple of years or
even every year depending on how much weather and abuse it sees. Make
sure to coat the end grain of the wood well.

I agree with louie, hit the end grain and knots twice. Opaque is good
but a shade stain provides some protection too. For this type of work I
go to the paint store and ask for their return and mistint pile, pay
reduced price or sometimes they'll give it for free.-Jitney