Rain or dew and Waterlox.

Q: “My project is wet from rain or dew, can I recoat?”

A: For projects either around water or outdoors in the elements that can produce moisture, dew and/or rain, it is important that the project be completely dry prior to coating. Drying of the film on the surface is not our major concern; it’s the water in the wood between the boards and in the wood fibers that is concerning.  The project should be completely dry and free from moisture and dew before any coats are applied; if it’s not, the next coat of finish can blush (white spots or white lines in the finish). Blushing is caused by trapping water underneath a coating, which cannot escape.

For projects that are outdoors where there is rain in the forecast or a decrease in temperature, causing dew, we recommend waiting for an optimum time to coat the project or moving the project indoors. All surfaces, seams and boards should be completely dry prior to coating. It is much better to wait an extra day or two to make sure all surfaces, seams and boards are completely dry before coating.