Minwax Helmsman

I wanted to pass on some info on some teak refinishing I just completed. It has bee a while since I've been into the forum but I don't recall anyone ever commenting on this product.

I just completed refinishing some teak for my Cobalt project. I used to always use Cetol for finishing but I was never really satisfied with the color. It always seemed a bit to "amber" for my taste. I decided to try Minwax Helmsman Urethane. My Cobalt has a LOT of teak trim on and in it. The deck has kind of a recessed area around the perimeter where the teak boards go as kind of a walk-around. Its more decorative than functional as it a bit too narrow for my size 12s. The lighter strips in the wood was originally that black rubber-y stuff in teak decks and I never really liked it so I dug it out and replace it. Here is a pic before finish....

I bought the Minwax Helmsman Satin Urethane at Lowes for about $20/quart and I really love the results. See below....

I prefer Satin rather than Gloss but this is 5 coats. It went on very clear, self levels so absolutely no brush marks and you can recoat in 2 hours. I just lightly sanded between coats with #220 sand paper as directed. Now I have to see how it lasts. I am going to try some Shurhold Pro Polish on a small area to see how it might protect the finish a bit more. Just thought I would pass this on....

Shawn

I used Minwax Helmsman on an oak railing on our front steps that I refinished. That was 3 years ago. Its lasted perfectly and looks just like it did when I first did it. That railing is exposed to the elements 24/7, including our cold and wet Canadian winter. Proper prep is important, but its a great product IMO.

I like Minwax Helmsman. We have a wooden storm door on our house, about every 5hrs I sand it and coat will 3 coats of Helmsman, it holds up very well completely exposed to the elements. The door is 20yrs old now.

I use it on my interior bay window sills. (lots of plants on them) Great stuff.
On Teak, I'd use Teak oil. I don't know the history, but you may find it will peel if previously treated with Teak oil.