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Smith & Co. CPES. http://www.smithandcompany.org/CPES/.org/CPES/
Clear Penetrating Epoxy Sealant which is not a hrd curing epoxy but a sealant that will protect the wood, stays flexible (same as wood) and is a great base or finish coat for anything you want to do to the wood.
Widely used in classic wooden boat restoration and or buildings to keep the same propertyies of the original wood but protect it from water infiltration.
Available at many good marine suppliers.