This freestanding arch sided with cedar is an excellent example of how preweathering (the exposure of unfinished wood to the elements) can severely damage the ability of wood to hold finish. It was allowed to preweather for a few months before it was finished. The result? Repeated coating failure. A few years before these photos were taken the arch looked just like this, so it was scraped, primed, and repainted, but to no avail.

Sunshine contacts the right side of the arch first–note the accelerated wear pattern on that side.

Although the rear of the arch is impacted with detritus, it stays relatively protected from sun and the elements so there the finish has largely maintained its integrity. The permanent fix? Have you ever heard the expression, "Vinyl is final"?

Read more about the effects of and fixes for preweathering in Contemporary Relationships between Wood & Finish.