I've seen cork sealer advertised... what purpose does it serve? And is it necessary? Does it add strengh? Longevity? Stain protection? Does it affect grip - enhance gripping power? Or is it just to improve the looks of the cork? Or is it just something else to sell.

It works out at about 10c per rod to use it for me as i mainly build split grips.
You use one coat,more is a problem.
What it does for me is make the cork easier to clean.
Slightly changes its color to something i prefer.
lasts on the rod about 1 year with my usage.
Your call if you like it or not but at about $5 a bottle that covers say 50 rods , i doubt its either a major money maker for retailers or will break your pocket book.
Best way to find out if you like it is add it to the next order you place.



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 06/06/2012 08:38AM by Lou Auret.

Hi Brent,
I also think that cork sealer is a good product and I also like the slight colour change it produces. It also stops the cork from getting that grey oxidised look if it is left in the natural state and does make cleaning easier. It's easy to apply, lasts a long time and can be removed with a light sanding when you need to recoat. Doesn't cost much and a bottle will do a lot of rods.
It doesn't affect the grip but it's not necessary. Up to you if you want to give it a go.

ESFNEM Col
Port Kembla, NSW
Australia

Can't argue with the price! ... Do you think its anything much different than a spray clearcoat? I'm attracted to the spray because it flows on evenly, and I like the look it produces.

I like the idea of removing it with a light sand... anything reworkable has to be an advantage. Not sure you get 'reworkable' with the clearcoat.

I use clear satin or matte finish spray on repaired cork or on cork filler that has been sanded it "blends" pretty nice Larry

If you use your rods in saltwater it is a must. It helps keep the salt out of the cork pits and increases your handle life.

Thanks Guy,... I'll give it a try. Blessings on your day, and on your projects.

Do a search on here There are several different products builders use

Bill - willierods.com

Hi Brett:
Cork sealer, its great, repells stains, seals it nice, gives it a darker warm look about it. it leaves a nice even coat if your as rough as me.......one strange thing though....if you let the first coat dry for to long the second coat is repelled off like water, so make sure you get the second and third coat on before the previous coat dry's to much.

Thanks Owen, good advice. Sounds like one coat kind of melts into the other while its still somewhat wet; once it drys it starts doing its job of repelling! thanks again, Brent

I'm not a fan of the multiple coats of cork seal. To me it makes to cork feel "fake". I'll brush it on and let it sit fora minute or so, then turn my lathe on and using a piece of old jeans "bufff" the sealant off. The key here is knowing what you like, and applying it to give you the results & feel you are looking for.

Interesting ... I'll try that 'buff' with jean material idea. I know in wood lathe work they recommend burnishing the wood surface with a scrap piece of wood (same kind) to smooth it out, heat it up and create a patina. I do the same with a scrap piece of cork before I seal it.... something to try. Blessings to you, Brent