Quote:
Originally Posted by jruffo
Just need help on restoring cockpit grate. I want it to look good and be able to step on it without the screws sticking people's feet. I was just thinking of layer of epoxy and finishing, but I am new to working with wood so I have no idea.
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While it will be somewhat laborious, remove the screws one-by-one and nip the ends off by a few threads. Assuming the slats aren't rotted, if the joints are loose, separate them a bit and inject some Elmer's Exterior Wood Glue with a plastic syringe--available in the Epoxy's department at West
Marine or the like--and then resecure with the screws although not too tightly. Allow a few days for the glue to dry/cure and then finish tightening the screws and sand the gating smooth (both sides) with a palm sander with 220 grit. Vacuum the
sanding dust clear and than wipe the wood down with Mineral Spirits. On our gratings, I use a couple of coats of Starbrite Tropical
Teak Oil Sealer, which is easily applied and once wiped down with a cloth dampened with Mineral Spirits has a pleasing appearance. From there on out, a wash with one step
teak cleaner/brightener follow by another coating of Starbright every few months will be all you'll need.
FWIW...