"blueman" wrote in message
Couple of questions:
- What stain should I use?
Is a regular Minwax stain (and sealer since pine) good enough for
such exterior use?

Yes, they can work. Gel stains seem to work better on pine if you are using
a dark color.


- What (clear) finish is most appropriate for protecting the door from
UV and other weather damage? (we live in the Northeast)
Would you use a spar urethane?
How many coats would you ud

I've had good luck with Minwax Helmsman on some outdoor furniture. You need
at least three coats and you need a touchup every one to two years.


Note the door manufacturer (The Combination Door Company) "recommends
the use of Sikkens Cetol Door and Window finish." Are such finishes
anything special or are they just pitching somebody elses product

I used Cetol Marine on a lounge chair I made from Cypress. I'm not impressed
and won't use it again. I don't like the way it went on, the way it
covered, and the way it is holding up after only a couple of years. I"ve not
used the door finish you speak of though; it may or may not be better.

I've used Penofin Oil on some Spanish cedar and mahogany furniture I've
made and I like the way it looks, the way it is holding up, the ease of
application, and the ease of putting on a coat every couple of years. Seems
to have good UV protection also. I've never used it on pine though.