I'm not trying to make this table anything super nice, but I'd like it to last more than a couple years.

It is just 2x10s over plywood. It will be exposed to the elements.

I got a stain/poly finish that I am going to apply 2 coats of. My question is will it be beneficial to add a finish wax/paste after the stain/poly.

Will it add a couple years to the wood? If it will only add a slight aesthetic gain, I probably won't bother.

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Posted by TU Rob

Birmingham

Member since Nov 2008

12740 posts

Posted on 5/23/17 at 8:46 am to Displaced

I think you would get more out of poly than a wax. Are you using a deck stain with water protection or some other type of stain? I used Thompson's deck stain on new railings about 7 years ago and they still hold up fine. They probably need cleaned and another coat applied to them, but for now they have a slightly weathered look and the wood is all in great shape.

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Posted by Displaced

Member since Dec 2011

32714 posts

Posted on 5/23/17 at 8:46 am to TU Rob

It is an outdoor deck stain/poly combo.

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Posted by TU Rob

Birmingham

Member since Nov 2008

12740 posts

Posted on 5/23/17 at 8:53 am to Displaced

quote:
It is an outdoor deck stain/poly combo.

You should be good then. Is it one of those 7 or 10 year guarantee products? All of them will fade in the sun, but they do a great job of protecting the wood. I applied mine to the railings and posts with a stain sponge, and did 2 coats. Wear gloves.

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Posted by Helo

Orlando

Member since Nov 2004

4592 posts

Posted on 5/23/17 at 9:51 am to Displaced

Many waxes will start to haze when exposed outside.

You mention poly, is that a spar varnish you used?
Normal poly will haze and crack quickly when exposed to direct sunlight and humidity.

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