I'm looking to build a small bench seat for my bathroom, positioned near the shower. It's not going to be in the shower directly, but it will definitely face humidity changes and might get some splashes of water. I'm considering teak, but I want to explore other wood options too since teak isn't really my style. I'm planning to finish the bench with either Danish oil and paste wax or a wipe-on polyurethane finish. What are your recommendations?
3 Answers
You've got some great options like teak, cedar, cypress, and ipe. Just a heads up though—Danish oil and wax might not provide enough protection for a moist area. I recommend looking into Waterlox as a finish; it's one of the best for dealing with moisture.
Teak is amazing but can be pricey! White oak is another excellent choice if you're okay with spending a bit more. Black locust is also worth considering if you can find it; it’s pretty durable. Cedar is a decent option too, but you should know that it's not the toughest wood out there. For finishes, marine grade or spar urethane is what I'd suggest for durability against water. I've had good luck with shellac followed by polyurethane for projects with minor water contact.
Teak is definitely a solid choice for your bathroom bench! I would also suggest cedar since it's a bit more budget-friendly and holds up well in humid conditions. Just keep in mind that cedar can be softer than some other options, so it might wear down over time.