Oiling interior cedar planks

[David Akerly]

Hello,

I am stripping the paint from the interior of my boat to expose the old growth red cedar planks over oak ribs. The boat is a 1947, 35 foot wooden sloop and I wanted to show off the 1 and 1/8 inch planks by putting an oil back on as opposed to repainting them. I'd varnish them but I understand that cedar doesn't hold varnish well. Does anybody know if it is appropriate to oil this wood or is it necessary to paint? If so, can anybody recommend an oil? And what about the planks in the bilge which will sometimes be exposed to rain and salt water?

Thanks

[sawcutmill]

Planks in the bilge should be painted for cleanliness purposes. You can varnish the cedar, but many coats will be required due to the porosity.If one were to oil, I would recommend "Deks Ole".

[Canoeyawl]

Cedar does varnish very nicely…
Varnish does not like to be submerged for extended periods (like in a bilge) red lead primer is often used there.
http://www.adirondackgoodboat.com/images/brecks_ugo.jpghttp://www.wood-canoe.com/Assets/Images/1926_old_town_web.jpg

[johngsandusky]

Clear finishes suffer more from sunlight than anything else. An oiled or varnished interior will last a long time and need little maintence. The bilge could get any exterior oil, or none at all. My bilge is unpainted these 36 years, and it's fine. But if you worry about it, consider cuprinol.