Waterproofing timber stairs

[Dengue]

My daughter in Melbourne has had new rear timber outdoor stairs added to her unit, and has an agreement with the landlord to waterproof the stairs and he will pay for the materials and some labour.

Can anyone please advise on a good way to waterproof external stairs? The landlord is not fussy about what they use.

[Master Splinter]

Disassemble stairs, coat with 3-4-5 coats of marine epoxy to all surfaces, reassemble, then 2-3 coats of marine polyurethane - that'll actually waterproof them.

Otherwise, I'd suggest http://www.bondall.com/titerange/thompsons_water_seal.html

[steve_26]

Yes disassembling the stairs is the only way to seal all exposed timber. particular important is the end grain, screw holes and any checkouts where water can get trapped.

[Robson Valley]

Correct = take the whole thing apart to do all surfaces.
Here, the damage usually starts on the horizontal parts of the stringers under the tread pieces.

Thompson's Waterseal is popular here for exposed wood.

Stinky and expensive, Sikkens Cetol is the most reliable
for exposed wood.

[Bob38S]

Outdoor stairs, coated marine epoxy etc.

Will need to ensure that any "slip factor" is taken into account should it rain or even a heavy dew.

[Robson Valley]

Well, we have to cope with alpine UV intensity and seasonal
temperature swings (max) from -40C/winters to +40C/summers in the sun.
Brutal, and understatement if you're unprepared.
Sikkens Cetol and be done with it.