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I don’t expect it to last forever, and pine* is what I have - I picked up a car full of random stuff from Whittens before it closed, so it’s what I have. First project and if it lasts this year I’ll be happy!! Would I be better painting it? Open to ideas!!
*how do you work out what wood is? I’m guessing it is pine!!
LongAndWinding-
how do you work out what wood is? I’m guessing it is pine!!
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how do you work out what wood is? I’m guessing it is pine!!
Pine is a catch all term for all kinds of white softwood. Differentiating between white softwood can be...... Challenging. The most common clues are in the grain pattern and the smell.
There are many books written on the subject of the identification of wood, their characteristics and best uses. This book is a good resource for those new to woodworking and provides a good overview of the most popular types of timber for woodworkers.
Nef
Bobbo
I wouldn't use pine for an outdoor project (unless it's something really special like pitch pine).
If you are set on using softwood then cedar is just as easy to work and will survive being in the elements much better wouldn't need treating either.
If you already have the pine and are determined to proceed then I'd mix 2 parts mineral spirits with one part boiled linseed oil or tung oil and melted wax from a tealight. Oil finishes are great but in terms of long term protection they sit on the surface and will eventually wash off. Using the mixture I've suggested allows the oil to penetrate the wood much more and the wax helps to form a really good waterproof layer.
Always apply finishes after assembly.