On 16 Sep 2005 04:52:26 -0700, "Sean" wrote:

Hi, we have a new softwood gate which will obviously need some form of
protection. We'd quite to maintain its current colour - can anyone
recommend a "clear" ish paint on sealer/protector and offer any advise
how to stop the gate falling to bits within 5 years.

Thanks.

Hi,

A few coats of clear wood preserver plus plenty in the joints will
help. Even soak the bottom in a trough of thick polythene as gates
tend to rot from the bottom where water collects.

It will still weather to a grey colour from UV, so something like
Sikkens Cetol in pine will help stop this:

www.sikkens.co.uk

cheers,
Pete.