Has anyone used UNTREATED 3/8" x 4" tongue & groove cedar panneling ? Are you happy with the result ? I would like to finish my dressing area with it but don't have access to a heated shop where I can apply a finish to it and let it cure and dry properly before I put it up. I have read on this site in the past that both sides of the panelling surface should be treated to prevent warping, otherwise I would put it up and wait till next summer and then treat the exposed surface side only. What would you do ?
Posted 2009-12-22 7:01 PM (#114470 - in reply to #114467) Subject: RE: DIY panelling
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
I've coated many species of unfinished wood down to aprox 25 degrees F. I'm sure your temperatures are much lower, so I can't guarantee if my process will work for you.
I have several different HVLP spray outfits, that enable me to lay on thin, even coatings of finish. Thick, hand brushed coatings, will not dry well at lower temperatures. I use petroleum based polyurethane varnishes (Minwax). I first heat the varnish to about ~110 degrees F. Then it is thinned aprox 15% with acetone, and a cap full of Japan Drier is added to each quart of material being sprayed. Before shooting, stir the mixture well, until all the blushing is absorbed and the material is clear again.
Spray a light, wet, coating and let stand. The next day it will be hard to the touch, but not completely cured. At lower temperatures, this may take a couple of days. Try not to abrade the finish at this point, as permanent marks can be left.
The big box stores sell inexpensive HVLP spray outfits for aprox ~$125 and up. The worse finish with these units, is better than the best application with a brush. If you value your time, the first job will pay for an inexpensive outfit in labour costs. They work well while using petroleum and water based products. They do not have the atomization capabilities, to spray heavy bodied latex based finishes. You will need an airless outfit for that.
DIY panelling
