Suitable Finish for OUTdoor dining table

[vivstar33]

Hi all

In final stages of my outdoor dining table build. Table is 3400mm x 900mm. Legs are 90x90 solid jarrah (100+ yrs old and beautiful). Table top is made of slats approx 90x30mm that I have cut from logs and salvaged lumber. Slats are a combination of mostly jarrah and sheoak, with a couple of other varieties inc pine and meranti. Varieties are scarf jointed to make the 3400mm slats.

Our existing glass outdoor table gets very dusty, but is easily cleaned with a squirt and some paper towel. Most people are telling me to just oil the timber, but I fear the table will never feel clean when we want to sit at it. My options are:

• oil, linseed or deck oil
• varnish (no idea which one would be best)
• epoxy coat with varnish overcoat

The table will be undercover but will get afternoon sun, perhaps a little bit of incidental water spray but not much. My main concern is cracking and flaking of a finish, and the feel of the wood when we sit at it.

Any discussion/thoughts appreciated!

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PS Bonus points if you can reference a specific product so I can do additional research on it

[Lappa]

I used Organoil Garden Furniture Oil on mine. It’s outside under a roofed pergola and gets morning sun and occasional water droplets from heavy rain and condensation from the roof. I oil it about once a year or if the water doesn’t bead. Mind is jarrah boards with a merbau frame and legs.

[vivstar33]

I used Organoil Garden Furniture Oil on mine. It’s outside under a roofed pergola and gets morning sun and occasional water droplets from heavy rain and condensation from the roof. I oil it about once a year or if the water doesn’t bead. Mind is jarrah boards with a merbau frame and legs.

Well, that sounds promising!
How does the table feel in terms of smoothness and cleanliness? Can you give it a wipe over to remove dust and have it looking and feeling pretty nice?

[Lappa]

Feels smooth. Quick wipe over with a damp cloth and it looks like new

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[jack620]

Definitely use an oil finish. Don’t be tempted to use a film coating like epoxy or marine varnish. It will look fantastic for 3 months then start peeling off. I use the same Cabots decking oil on my merbau outdoor tables as I do on my decking.

[vivstar33]

This is all music to my ears. I was prepared to go the more complicated route if necessary, but it sounds like, overwhelmingly, oil is the go.

Thanks to all who responded. As a noob with no credibility here, it's really cool to know that help and advice will still be offered.