Thanks Jack.. All I put on for now was pure tongue oil (not the furniture grade). The oil held up well. However this spring I may give them a fresh sanding and try a spar varnish of some sort. I chose just oil to start due to the fact that this cedar went from standing tree to install in three days (wanted to slow the drying). well that and i like just being able to reapply. I’m not sure what i’ll try i’ve not found a clear coat that stands up to the beating of the sun.