All too often, exterior finishes for wood are shortlived in durability or fail completely. Failure is usually the result of the worng kind of finish being applied to the wood surface or of not following recommended application procedures. In either case, the homeowner is faced with the expensive and time consuming problem of refinishin. Instruction should be given in selecting the appropriate finish/wood combination and in following through by applying the finish as specified by the manufacturer. This publication will discuss how to select the appropriate finish for the many different types of wood prducts currently used on structures as well as correct application procedures.