Waterproofing Oak faced ply

[Kristian]

Once oak faced ply has been put up in a shower/wetroom can it then be waterproofed? Eg varnish or epoxy resin?

[Ray]

We varnished both sides of our plywood before we put it up. We did a 60/40 mix for the first coat followed by a 90/10 mix for the second. Then it got two coats of neat varnish. Its all up now and we plan to apply at least one more coat once the trim's in place.

[carlt]

Once oak faced ply has been put up in a shower/wetroom can it then be waterproofed? Eg varnish or epoxy resin?

Make sure your seams are properly sealed (I like marine flex) then multiple layers of varnish (then some more).

[Ally]

Once oak faced ply has been put up in a shower/wetroom can it then be waterproofed? Eg varnish or epoxy resin?

Oak is one of the more difficult timbers to protect, as timber or ply. I would advise that the ply should always be waterproofed on the back as well as the front, incase of any moisture between it and the hull. Oak will turn black with any moisture and steel contact. Several good layers of varnish will protect it, but it isn't an ideal material where it will be regularly exposed to water. Use a mixed coat of varnish and thinners first layer, which helps it get into the laminate, then carry on with neat varnish after. Don't skimp though!